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Phillips G, Millhollon R, Elenwo C, Ford AI, Bray N, Hartwell M. Associations of clinical personnel characteristics and telemedicine practices. J Osteopath Med 2024; 0:jom-2024-0023. [PMID: 38855816 DOI: 10.1515/jom-2024-0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT The use of telemedicine strategies has been increasing in the United States for more than a decade, with physicians taking advantage of this new tool to reach more patients. Determining the specific demographics of physicians utilizing telemedicine most in their practice can inform recommendations for expanded telemedicine use among all physicians and aid in mitigating the need for local physicians in urban and rural populations. OBJECTIVES This study aims to assess the use of telemedicine by physicians in 2021, based on four demographics utilizing the National Electronic Health Record Survey (NEHRS): physician age, sex, specialty, and training. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study of the 2021 NEHRS to determine the relationship between physician characteristics and telemedicine practices. Differences between groups were measured through design-based chi-square tests. RESULTS Compared to male physicians, female physicians were more likely to utilize telemedicine services (X 2=8.0; p=0.005). Compared to younger physicians, those over the age of 50 were less likely to utilize telemedicine services (X 2=4.1; p=0.04). Compared to primary care physicians, medical and surgical specialty physicians were less likely to utilize telemedicine services, with surgical specialty physicians being the least likely overall (X 2=11.5; p<0.001). We found no significant differences in telemedicine use based on degree (Osteopathic and Allopathic). CONCLUSIONS Our results showed a statistically significant difference between physician's age, sex, and specialty on telemedicine use in practice during 2021. Efforts to increase telemedicine use among physicians may be needed to provide more accessible care to patients. Thus, by increasing physician education on the importance of telemedicine for modern patients, more physicians may decide to utilize telemedicine services in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunnar Phillips
- Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine at Cherokee Nation, Tahlequah, OK, USA
| | - Robert Millhollon
- Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine at Cherokee Nation, Office of Medical Student Research, Tahlequah, OK, USA
| | - Covenant Elenwo
- Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine at Cherokee Nation, Office of Medical Student Research, Tahlequah, OK, USA
| | - Alicia Ito Ford
- Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine at Cherokee Nation, Office of Medical Student Research, Tahlequah, OK, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Natasha Bray
- Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine at Cherokee Nation, Office of Medical Student Research, Tahlequah, OK, USA
| | - Micah Hartwell
- Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine at Cherokee Nation, Office of Medical Student Research, Tahlequah, OK, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, USA
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Engels A, Stein J, Riedel-Heller SG, König HH, Konnopka C. Temporal and spatial changes in the provision of mental health care during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany: a claims-based cohort study on patients with severe mental disorders. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024; 59:789-797. [PMID: 37831078 PMCID: PMC11087346 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-023-02571-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Major lockdowns were imposed in Germany from March until May 2020 and from December 2020 until May 2021. We studied the influence of these lockdowns, the strain on intensive care units and the strictness of COVID-19-related containment strategies on the utilization of mental health care among patients with severe mental disorders. METHODS We used health insurance claims data to identify n = 736,972 patients with severe mental disorders shortly before the pandemic and n = 735,816 patients a year earlier. We applied entropy balancing to adjust for baseline differences by district. For a 12-month follow-up, we modeled monthly changes in utilization through meta-analytic models using both the COVID-19 stringency index and intensive care unit cases per 100,000 inhabitants as predictors. Our outcomes were changes in psychiatric hospital days and time treated by outpatient psychiatrists. RESULTS Psychiatric hospital days declined by at least 7.7% in all calender month during the pandemic. Peak reduction rates were observed in April (- 27.9%), May (- 22.3%) 2020 and January 2021 (- 18.3%). Utilization changes were associated with the stringency index and the second lockdown. Time treated by psychiatrists was shorter in April (- 16.2%) and May (- 11.5%) 2020 and in January 2021 (- 10.5%), which was partially offset by higher utilization in June and September 2020. These utilization changes were associated with the stringency index and the strain on intensive care units during both lockdowns. CONCLUSION Hospitals did not maintain the level of utilization during the pandemic, while outpatient psychiatrists adapted more quickly, presumably due to digital and telemedical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Engels
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Building W37, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Janine Stein
- Institute for Social Medicine, Occupational Medicine and Public Health, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Steffi G Riedel-Heller
- Institute for Social Medicine, Occupational Medicine and Public Health, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Building W37, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Konnopka
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Center for Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, Building W37, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
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Neumann A, König HH, Hajek A. Determinants of Telemedicine Service Use Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults in Germany During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-Sectional Survey Study. JMIR Aging 2024; 7:e50938. [PMID: 38654578 PMCID: PMC11063582 DOI: 10.2196/50938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic demanded fast changes in the delivery of health care. As a result, significant growth in the use of telemedicine services occurred. Research, especially from nationally representative German samples, is needed to better understand determinants of telemedicine use. Objective The purpose of this study was to identify determinants of telemedicine service use among middle-aged and older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. Methods Cross-sectional, nationally representative data were taken from the German sample of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). The German Corona Survey 2 (n=2039), which was conducted between June and August 2021, was used for this study. Reporting experience with remote medical consultations during the COVID-19 pandemic served as the outcome measure. Associations with socioeconomic, psychological, social, health-related, and COVID-19-related determinants were examined using multiple Firth logistic regressions. Results Psychological factors including feeling nervous, anxious, or on edge (odds ratio [OR] 1.61, 95% CI 1.04-2.50; P=.03), feeling sad or depressed (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.05-2.51; P=.03) and feelings of loneliness (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.07-2.58; P=.02) were positively associated with telemedicine use. Moreover, forgoing medical treatment because of being afraid of being infected by SARS-CoV-2 (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.10-2.97; P=.02) and describing limitations because of a health problem as severe were positively associated with the outcome (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.12-4.00; P=.02). Socioeconomic and social factors were not significantly associated with telemedicine use in our sample. Conclusions Middle-aged and older individuals in Germany seem to use telemedicine services according to psychological needs and health limitations. Especially when psychological symptoms are experienced, telemedicine seems to be a promising service option in this age group. Future research is needed to confirm these initial findings in postpandemic circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariana Neumann
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Youssef Y, Fellmer F, Gehlen T, Estel K, Tsitsilonis S, Maerdian S, Digitalisierung AG, Back DA. Joint and Functional Examinations in the Orthopaedic and Traumatological Video Consultation - What is Currently Possible? ZEITSCHRIFT FUR ORTHOPADIE UND UNFALLCHIRURGIE 2024; 162:149-165. [PMID: 36473487 DOI: 10.1055/a-1957-5763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, video consultations have gained importance in orthopaedic and traumatological departments. In current literature, different adaptations of classic joint and functional examinations have been described for the virtual examination. METHODOLOGY A systematic review of current literature on adaptations for the virtual joint and functional examination in orthopaedics and trauma surgery was performed over PubMed (January 2010 to April 2021). The identified examination methods were then summarised systematically according to body region and pathology. Each examination was then described in detail and depicted in an exemplary picture. RESULTS In total 17 articles were identified and included in the analysis. Most of the examinations employed classical examination methods which were adapted so that they could be performed by the patient independently. Everyday items were described as supporting tools. In five publications, orthopaedic examinations performed in video consultations were compared to the classical examination. Results of functional examinations showed less agreement with results of classical orthopaedic examinations when compared to inspection and ROM-testing. CONCLUSION Current literature offers a substantial repertoire of examination options that can be used in the orthopaedic and traumatological video consultation. The reported examinations are mostly oriented to classical orthopaedic examinations. In future digital examinations have to be validated and possibly further adapted in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin Youssef
- Klinik für Orthopädie, Unfallchirurgie und Plastische Chirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Leipzig, Deutschland
- AG Digitalisierung, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Felix Fellmer
- Klinik für Unfallchirurgie und Orthopädie, Septisch-Rekonstruktive Chirurgie, Bundeswehrkrankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Tobias Gehlen
- AG Digitalisierung, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Berlin, Deutschland
- Centrum für Muskuloskeletale Chirurgie, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Katharina Estel
- AG Digitalisierung, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Berlin, Deutschland
- Klinik für Unfallchirurgie und Orthopädie, Septisch-Rekonstruktive Chirurgie, Bundeswehrkrankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Serafeim Tsitsilonis
- AG Digitalisierung, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Berlin, Deutschland
- Centrum für Muskuloskeletale Chirurgie, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Sven Maerdian
- AG Digitalisierung, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Berlin, Deutschland
- Centrum für Muskuloskeletale Chirurgie, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - A G Digitalisierung
- AG Digitalisierung, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - David Alexander Back
- AG Digitalisierung, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Berlin, Deutschland
- Klinik für Unfallchirurgie und Orthopädie, Septisch-Rekonstruktive Chirurgie, Bundeswehrkrankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
- Centrum für Muskuloskeletale Chirurgie, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
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Sang R, Jiang M, Zhao Q, Kong L. Evaluating the Impact of Interventions and Improvements in Outpatient Intravenous Infusion Therapy at a Hospital in China: A Comprehensive Analysis of Prescription Patterns and Safety Measures. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2024; 17:525-533. [PMID: 38476200 PMCID: PMC10929564 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s451516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The excessive use of intravenous infusion in China was once a serious problem, but in recent years, attention has been paid to the phenomenon, and the government has implemented several policies to solve the problem, which has been gradually improved. Aim This study focuses on evaluating the impact of ongoing interventions and improvements in outpatient intravenous infusion therapy. Methods From January 2016 to December 2022, we conducted a study to gather annual data on intravenous infusion prescriptions. A data questionnaire, encompassing information on departments, clinical diagnosis, and infusion drugs, was developed for this purpose. We analyzed the changing trends of Top 10 clinical departments with higher intravenous infusion usage rates and Top 10 drugs used. We also evaluated the compliance of intravenous infusion prescriptions with management regulations and drug instructions, for further intervention in the future. Results The analysis of intravenous infusion prescription rates revealed a gradual decrease from 10.89% to 5.63%. This reduction was statistically significant (P < 0.05). High levels of intravenous infusion use were consistently observed in emergency surgery and emergency medicine. Commonly administered drugs via infusion included antibacterial drugs, tumor medications, proton pump inhibitors, and injections of traditional Chinese medicine. Inappropriate prescriptions are often characterized by issues related to drug dosage, usage, indication, and selection. Trend analysis of unreasonable types revealed significant improvements in "Diagnosis incomplete/unwritten", "Solvent selection", "Dosing frequency", and "Treatment without indication" (P < 0.05). Conclusion The findings of this study indicate a gradual improvement in the situation regarding intravenous infusion. However, there are still prevalent instances of unreasonable practices that need to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Sang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233004, People’s Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Manxue Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233004, People’s Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiuju Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingti Kong
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233004, People’s Republic of China
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233030, People’s Republic of China
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Bělobrádek J, Šídlo L, Philipp T. Influence of practice location on prescribing, diabetes care, and colorectal cancer screening among Czech general practitioners during the COVID-19 pandemic. Epidemiol Health 2024; 46:e2024033. [PMID: 38453333 PMCID: PMC11176716 DOI: 10.4178/epih.e2024033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The provision of primary health care was not interrupted during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Czechia, although the capacity and resources of providers changed. We examined how the pandemic affected individual general practices throughout 2017-2021, focusing on differences between urban and rural practices. METHODS We analysed data from the largest health insurance company in Czechia, which provides care to 4.5 million people (60% of the population). We evaluated the prescription volume, diabetes care procedures, and faecal immunochemical test (FIT) in preventive care and new pandemic-related procedures (remote consultations, testing, and vaccinations). For the spatial distribution of practices, we adapted the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development typology. RESULTS We observed minimal declines in 2020 in the rate of prescribing (-1.0%) and diabetes care (-5.1%), with a rapid resumption in 2021, but a substantial decline in FIT (-17.8% in 2020) with slow resumption. Remote consultations were used by 94% of all practices regardless of location, with testing and vaccinations more commonly performed by rural general practitioners (GPs). CONCLUSIONS Primary care in Czechia rose to the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, as shown by the finding that the volume of healthcare services provided through primary care did not decrease across most of the monitored parameters. This study also confirmed that rural GPs provide more care in-house, both in terms of prescribing and procedures performed in their practices. Future studies will need to focus on preventive care, which the pandemic has dampened in GP practices in Czechia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Bělobrádek
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, Charles University Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Luděk Šídlo
- Department of Demography and Geodemography, Charles University Faculty of Science, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Tom Philipp
- General Health Insurance Company (GHIC), Praha, Czech Republic
- Charles University, Third Faculty of Medicine, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Clinic, Praha, Czech Republic
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Saleem MK, Sattar K, Ejaz KF, Rehman MU, Saleem H, Khursheed S, Akbar A, Ahmed J, Tariq M, Jadoon SK, Saleem Khan M, Tasneem S, Khandker SS, Kundu S, Alvi S. Use of telemedicine to tackle health problems in South Asia during the COVID-19 era and beyond: a systematic review. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:1012-1020. [PMID: 38333256 PMCID: PMC10849386 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Telemedicine (TM) and teleconsultation services flourished during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) transmission to avoid COVID-19 infection and physical contact. Many physicians switched to the virtual treatment mode and nearly all types of health disciplines were covered. Through this systematic review, the authors tried to explore the strengths and weaknesses of TM, identify the barriers to adopting TM by population, and explain the limitations of this healthcare delivery model. Methods and results In this systematic review, 28 studies were included (>53% high-quality studies) as eligible, where nearly 75% (n=21) of the studies were from India, and the remaining 25% (n=7) were from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Advice related to cancer, autoimmune diseases, and neurological diseases were the most common among the health disciplines in which TM was used. A peak in teleconsultation was observed during the high transmission phase of COVID-19, although major queries were associated with existing health complications and comorbidities. Conclusion Other than a few concerns regarding connectivity, privacy, and diagnosis, TM was in fact affordable, timesaving, feasible, and accurate, which ensured a highly satisfying experience among the participants (>80%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad K. Saleem
- General Internal Medicine, Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, Tipperary University Hospital, Ireland
| | - Komal Sattar
- Russell’s Hall Hospital Dudley, MRCP Royal College
| | | | | | | | | | - Amna Akbar
- Poonch Medical College, Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad
| | - Jahanzeb Ahmed
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Maham Tariq
- Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Medical College Mirpur
| | | | | | - Sabahat Tasneem
- Public Health Professional (MSPH), Health Services Academy, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Shoumik Kundu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sarosh Alvi
- Teaching Faculty, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
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Angelopoulou E, Kontaxopoulou D, Fragkiadaki S, Stanitsa E, Pavlou D, Papatriantafyllou J, Koros C, Dimovski V, Šemrov D, Papageorgiou SG. Perceptions of Patients, Caregivers, and Healthcare Professionals toward Telemedicine Use for Cognitive and Movement Disorders in the Aegean Islands, Greece: A Pilot Study of the SI4CARE European Project. Geriatrics (Basel) 2023; 9:3. [PMID: 38247978 PMCID: PMC10801565 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics9010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with neurodegenerative diseases who live in remote areas often have limited access to specialized healthcare, and telemedicine represents a useful solution. The aim of this study was to investigate the perceptions toward the use of a specialized-tertiary telemedicine service of patients with cognitive and movement disorders, caregivers, and local healthcare professionals (HPs) in the Aegean Islands. METHODS Data were derived from the "Specialized Outpatient Clinic of Memory, Dementia and Parkinson's disease through the National Telemedicine Network", March 2021-March 2023. The survey included 10 questions (5-point Likert scale). RESULTS We received 64 questionnaires (25 patients, 18 caregivers, 21 HPs). Most participants positively perceived all aspects of telemedicine, including comfort (mean ± standard deviation: patients 4.5 ± 0.9, caregivers: 4.8 ± 0.5, HPs: 4.6 ± 0.7), access to specialized care (4.7 ± 0.6, 4.7 ± 0.5, 4.9 ± 0.4), number of transportations (4.6 ± 0.8, 4.6 ± 0.9, 4.8 ± 0.5), adequacy of follow-up (4.6 ± 0.7, 4.4 ± 0.8, 4.2 ± 0.7), future telemedicine selection (4.8 ± 0.4, 4.8 ± 0.4, 4.6 ± 0.6), perceived reliable medical assessment (4.7 ± 0.5, 4.6 ± 0.6, 4.3 ± 0.6), information delivery (4.7 ± 0.6, 4.6 ± 0.5, 4.4 ± 0.9), health status improvement (4.6 ± 0.7, 4.6 ± 0.6, 4.0 ± 0.7), cost (4.6 ± 1, 4.6 ± 1, 5.0 ± 0.2), and general satisfaction (4.8 ± 0.4, 4.7 ± 0.5, 4.5 ± 0.6). The commonest recommendations were more frequent visits, medical specialties, and dissemination of information. CONCLUSIONS The positive perception of participants highlights the value of telemedicine for specialized healthcare for neurodegenerative disorders, especially in remote areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efthalia Angelopoulou
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Dionysia Kontaxopoulou
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Stella Fragkiadaki
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Evangelia Stanitsa
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Dimosthenis Pavlou
- School of Topography and Geoinformatics, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 12243 Aigalew, Greece;
| | - John Papatriantafyllou
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Christos Koros
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Vlado Dimovski
- School of Economics and Business, University of Ljubljana, Kardeljeva ploščad 17, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Darja Šemrov
- Faculty of Civic and Geodetic Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Jamova Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sokratis G. Papageorgiou
- 1st Department of Neurology, Aiginition University Hospital, Vasilissis Sofias Street 72-74, 11528 Athens, Greece; (D.K.); (S.F.); (E.S.); (J.P.); (C.K.); (S.G.P.)
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Machida M, Nishioka Y, Noda T, Imamura T. Research note changes in the number of outpatient visits in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Res Notes 2023; 16:70. [PMID: 37143139 PMCID: PMC10158698 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-023-06336-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the change in the number of outpatient visits in Japan since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, using data on the outpatient claims submitted by medical institutions to insurers in 2019 and 2020, from the National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Check-ups. We calculated the total number of outpatient visits, and number of visits for individual diseases according to the International Classification of Diseases-10 codes on the claim form. RESULTS The number of outpatient visits per million people decreased by 9.98% in 2020 compared to 2019. Of the diseases included in the analysis, 71 showed a decrease in the number of visits by ≥ 1%. There were significant decreases in the number of visits related to infectious diseases (influenza, acute bronchitis, and acute laryngitis, etc.), and chronic diseases (hemorrhoids, cystic kidney disease, dyspepsia, and chronic sinusitis, etc.). The observed decreased rate of outpatient visit might have been due to, a decrease in the incidence of disease, a decreased frequency of visit by patients with the disease, or both. Our analysis method using actual health insurance claim data can be applied worldwide, where researchers have access to national information on health insurance claims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munehito Machida
- Department of Public Health, Health Management and Policy, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara city, 634-8521, Nara, Japan.
- Department of Public Health Policy, National Institute of Public Health, Wako city, Saitama, Japan.
| | - Yuichi Nishioka
- Department of Public Health, Health Management and Policy, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara city, 634-8521, Nara, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Noda
- Department of Public Health, Health Management and Policy, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara city, 634-8521, Nara, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Imamura
- Department of Public Health, Health Management and Policy, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara city, 634-8521, Nara, Japan
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Zhu L, Jiang X, Cao J. Factors Affecting Continuance Intention in Non-Face-to-Face Telemedicine Services: Trust Typology and Privacy Concern Perspectives. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11030374. [PMID: 36766949 PMCID: PMC9914105 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11030374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
As the COVID-19 pandemic progressed, the resulting demand for telemedicine services increased. This research empirically examines the role of trust, privacy concerns, and perceived usefulness in customer confirmation, satisfaction, and continuing intention in telemedicine. A typology of trust was employed to classify trust into three dimensions and explore the mediating role of the three dimensions of trust in the relationship between satisfaction, perceived usefulness, and continued intention. We also examined the moderating role of personal privacy concerns in the relationship between trust and continued intention. For this study, we developed a structural equation model based on expectation confirmation theory and analyzed 465 questionnaires from Chinese online users. The expectancy confirmation theory (ECT) was reaffirmed by empirical evidence. The results showed that the relationship between perceived usefulness and satisfaction with continued intention is moderated by the three dimensions of trust. Privacy concerns can negatively moderate the relationship between structural assurance-based trust and continued intention. This study also identified potential threats to telehealth market growth alongside new insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhu
- Department of Business Administration, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Xinshu Jiang
- Department of Business Administration, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (X.J.); (J.C.)
| | - Junwei Cao
- School of Business, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Correspondence: (X.J.); (J.C.)
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Doepfmer S, Akdenizli K, Dashti H, Heintze C, Kaden F, Kuempel L, Kuschick D, Medrow N, Neidhardt-Akdenizli A, Otto-Gogoll S, Reicherdt I, Steenweg L, Toutaoui K. Changes to utilization and provision of health care in German GP practices during the COVID 19-pandemic: Protocol for a mixed methods study on the viewpoint of GPs, medical practice assistants, and patients. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0279413. [PMID: 37053207 PMCID: PMC10101402 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During the COVID-19 pandemic, general practitioners (GPs) continued to be a main point of contact for patients. For GP practices, it was and still is a challenge to meet constantly changing requirements due to the various phases of the pandemic. The aim of the study is to explore retrospectively the subjective experience with supply and utilization of health care services from the perspective of general practitioners, medical practice assistants and patients, in particular regarding instances of underutilization of services for non-Covid related conditions, adjustments due to the pandemic, and the appropriateness of care. METHODS The study is carried out within the RESPoNsE research practice network in three of Germany's federal states: Berlin, Brandenburg, and Thuringia (RESPoNsE-Research practice network east). The study follows a convergent mixed method design, and consists of the following sections: a) two anonymous paper-based questionnaires filled out by GPs and medical practice assistants (MPAs), at an interval of 12 to 18 months; b) in-depth qualitative interviews conducted among a subgroup of GPs and MPAs; c) anonymous paper-based questionnaires among patients of participating practices. The idea for the study was derived from discussions with the practice advisory board of the RESPoNsE network. The themes and issues to be explored in the surveys and interviews are developed and discussed in the practice advisory board, the patient advisory board, and with interested MPAs. The questionnaires will be analyzed descriptively, exploring the effect of demographic variables. Qualitative content analysis is used to analyze the data from the interviews and focus groups. DISCUSSION The study focuses on the conditions of GP care during the COVID-19 pandemic. A broad insight is provided as GPs and MPAs, as well as patients, are involved. It provides the opportunity to express needs and concerns. The results can support future discussions on lessons learned from the pandemic and necessary changes in health care delivery. TRIAL REGISTRATION Trial registration at the German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00028095.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Doepfmer
- Institute of General Practice, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | - Kemal Akdenizli
- Member of the RESPoNsE Practice Advisory Board, Practice in Berlin, Germany
| | - Hiwa Dashti
- Member of the RESPoNsE Practice Advisory Board, Practice in Brandenburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Heintze
- Institute of General Practice, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Kaden
- Member of the RESPoNsE Practice Advisory Board, Practice in Berlin, Germany
| | - Lisa Kuempel
- Institute of General Practice, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | - Doreen Kuschick
- Institute of General Practice, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | - Natascha Medrow
- Member of the RESPoNsE Practice Advisory Board, Practice in Brandenburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Isabelle Reicherdt
- Member of the RESPoNsE Practice Advisory Board, Practice in Brandenburg, Germany
| | - Lydia Steenweg
- Member of the RESPoNsE Practice Advisory Board, Practice in Berlin, Germany
| | - Kahina Toutaoui
- Institute of General Practice, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
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Muehlensiepen F, Petit P, Knitza J, Welcker M, Vuillerme N. Factors Associated With Telemedicine Use Among German General Practitioners and Rheumatologists: Secondary Analysis of Data From a Nationwide Survey. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e40304. [DOI: 10.2196/40304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Previous studies have demonstrated telemedicine (TM) to be an effective tool to complement rheumatology care and address workforce shortage. With the outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, TM experienced a massive upswing. However, in rheumatology care, the use of TM stagnated again shortly thereafter. Consequently, the factors associated with physicians’ willingness to use TM (TM willingness) and actual use of TM (TM use) need to be thoroughly investigated.
Objective
This study aimed to identify the factors that determine TM use and TM willingness among German general practitioners and rheumatologists.
Methods
We conducted a secondary analysis of data from a German nationwide cross-sectional survey with general practitioners and rheumatologists. Bayesian univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to the data to determine which factors were associated with TM use and TM willingness. The predictor variables (covariates) that were studied individually included sociodemographic factors (eg, age and sex), work characteristics (eg, practice location and medical specialty), and self-assessed knowledge of TM. All the variables positively and negatively associated with TM use and TM willingness in the univariate analysis were then considered for Bayesian model averaging analysis after a selection based on the variance inflation factor (≤2.5). All analyses were stratified by sex.
Results
Univariate analysis revealed that out of 83 variables, 36 (43%) and 34 (41%) variables were positively or negatively associated (region of practical equivalence≤5%) with TM use and TM willingness, respectively. The Bayesian model averaging analysis allowed us to identify 13 and 17 factors of TM use and TM willingness, respectively. Among these factors, being female, having very poor knowledge of TM, treating <500 patients per quarter, and not being willing to use TM were negatively associated with TM use, whereas having good knowledge of TM and treating >1000 patients per quarter were positively associated with TM use. In addition, being aged 51 to 60 years, thinking that TM is not important for current and future work, and not currently using TM were negatively associated with TM willingness, whereas owning a smart device and working in an urban area were positively associated with TM willingness.
Conclusions
The results point to the close connection between health care professionals’ knowledge of TM and actual TM use. These results lend support to the integration of digital competencies into medical education as well as hands-on training for health care professionals. Incentive programs for physicians aged >50 years and practicing in rural areas could further encourage TM willingness.
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13
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COVID-19 related decline in cancer screenings most pronounced for elderly patients and women in Germany: a claims data analysis. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2022:10.1007/s00432-022-04433-z. [DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04433-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
This study aimed to analyze the utilization of cancer screenings in Germany before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The objective of the analysis was to identify the population at particular risk and to derive recommendations for the future use of resources to prevent long-term deteriorations in health outcomes.
Methods
The analysis was conducted based on claims data of all preventive health services for 15,833,662 patients from the largest statutory health insurance fund in Germany. Utilization of general female cancer screening, general male cancer screening, general health checkup, colorectal cancer screening stool test, colorectal cancer screening consultation, colonoscopy, skin cancer screening, and mammography screening was compared before (2017–2019) and during (2020) the pandemic.
Results
Data of a total of 42,046,078 observed screenings showed that the utilization of the individual screenings developed differently, but that the overall utilization decreased significantly by 21.46% during the COVID-19 pandemic (p < 0.001). At the same time, no catch-up effects were detected for total screenings throughout the entire year 2020. The highest decline in screenings was found for the elderly (p < 0.001) and women (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Because the elderly are at higher risk for cancer, the omission of early detection might lead to higher treatment costs, reduced quality of life, and higher mortality. In addition, women's medical care in particular has been negatively affected, for example, by the interruption of mammography screenings and the lack of catch-up effects. Therefore, resources must be targeted to reduce burdens on health outcomes and public health in the long term.
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Baum U, Kühn F, Lichters M, Baum AK, Deike R, Hinrichs H, Neumann T. Neurological Outpatients Prefer EEG Home-Monitoring over Inpatient Monitoring-An Analysis Based on the UTAUT Model. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13202. [PMID: 36293783 PMCID: PMC9603390 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Home monitoring examinations offer diagnostic and economic advantages compared to inpatient monitoring. In addition, these technical solutions support the preservation of health care in rural areas in the absence of local care providers. The acceptance of patients is crucial for the implementation of home monitoring concepts. The present research assesses the preference for a health service that is to be introduced, namely an EEG home-monitoring of neurological outpatients-using a mobile, dry-electrode EEG (electroencephalography) system-in comparison to the traditional long-time EEG examination in a hospital. Results of a representative study for Germany (n = 421) reveal a preference for home monitoring. Importantly, this preference is partially driven by a video explaining the home monitoring system. We subsequently analyzed factors that influence the behavioral intention (BI) to use the new EEG system, drawing on an extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. The strongest positive predictor of BI is the belief that EEG home-monitoring will improve health quality, while computer anxiety and effort expectancy represent the strongest barriers. Furthermore, we find the UTAUT model's behavioral intention construct to predict the patients' decision for or against home monitoring more strongly than any other patient's characteristic such as gender, health condition, or age, underlying the model's usefulness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Baum
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Frauke Kühn
- Institute for Sensory and Innovation Research (ISI GmbH), Ascherberg 2, 37124 Rosdorf, Germany
| | - Marcel Lichters
- Chair of Marketing and Retailing, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Chemnitz University of Technology, Reichenhainer Straße 39, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Anne-Katrin Baum
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Renate Deike
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Hermann Hinrichs
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Brenneckestraße 6, 39118 Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Neumann
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Chair in Health Services Research, School of Life Sciences, University of Siegen, Am Eichenhang 50, 57076 Siegen, Germany
- Chair in Empirical Economics, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
- Research Campus STIMULATE, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Sandtorstraße 23, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
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Nia MN, Mohajer S, Bagheri N, Sarboozi-Hoseinabadi T. The effects of family-centered empowerment model on depression, anxiety, and stress of the family caregivers of patients with COVID-19: a randomized clinical trial. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:185. [PMID: 35883034 PMCID: PMC9315845 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01795-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Taking care of patients with Covid-19 is regarded as a challenging task for family caregivers. Hence, a Family-Centered Empowerment Model (FCEM) should help them achieve greater psychological strength throughout the home healthcare process. METHODS This study is a randomized clinical trial with two groups; besides, pre-test and post-test designs were conducted based on the CONSORT checklist from April to July 2020, in Iran. Seventy family caregivers were randomly assigned to FCEM (n = 35) and control (n = 35) groups. Then, four stages of FCEM in four online sessions were provided to the participants of the intervention group via WhatsApp messenger. The procedure started at the patient's discharge and continued for two weeks. The demographic information questionnaire and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) were employed before and five days after the FCEM sessions to gather the required data. RESULTS The sample was made up of 55.8% women and 44.2% men caregivers, with a mean age of 42.5 years. The results demonstrated a substantial difference in the average score of stress (p = 0.023), anxiety (p = 0.003), and depression (p = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS The combination of a face-to-face orientation session and online methods of FCEM is likely to lower stress, anxiety, and depression in family caregivers, which can be contributed to the practicability, simplicity, and effectiveness of this home health intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study (no. IRCT20180429039463N2 ) was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials on 10/04/2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Namazi Nia
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran.,Health Sciences Research Center, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Samira Mohajer
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nasser Bagheri
- Visual and Decision Analytics (VIDEA) Lab, Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia.,The National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Tahere Sarboozi-Hoseinabadi
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran. .,Health Sciences Research Center, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran.
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