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Moradi G, Piroozi B, Khayyati F, Moradpour F, Safari H, Mohamadi Bolbanabad A, Fattahi H, Younesi F, Ebrazeh A, Shokri A. The effect of COVID-19 on utilization of chronic diseases services. Chronic Illn 2024; 20:309-319. [PMID: 37488977 PMCID: PMC10372501 DOI: 10.1177/17423953231178168] [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: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study is to evaluate the impact of Covid-19 on utilization of chronic diseases services. METHODS Interrupted time-series design was used to examine the utilization of chronic diseases services before and during the Covid-19 pandemic among hospitals in Iran. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, type 2 diabetes, heart failure, and chemotherapy were selected as a proxy to indicate the impact of Covid-19 on utilization of chronic diseases services. Data were collected in 24 sites from 12 months before the onset of Covid-19 (from March 2019 to February 2020) to 12 months during the Covid-19 pandemic (February 2020 to March 2021). RESULTS A total of 7,039,378 services were provided, of which 51.92% were provided for women and 62.73% for >65 age group. A sudden decrease was observed in monthly utilization of services during the Covid-19 pandemic; ranging from 13.91 (95% CI = -21.73, 6.10, P = 0.001) for chemotherapy to 606.39 (95% CI = -1040.72, 172.06, P = 0.009) for heart failure services per 100 thousand population. A decrease was observed in COPD services; 15.28 services compared with the period before Covid-19. Subsequently, the monthly utilization trends of asthma, type 2 diabetes, and chemotherapy services increased significantly (P < 0.05). DISCUSSION Although chronic diseases are a factor in more severe form of Covid-19, their failure to seek diagnostic, prevention and treatment services has somewhat complicated the issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghobad Moradi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Bakhtiar Piroozi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Fariba Khayyati
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Farhad Moradpour
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Hossein Safari
- Health Promotion Research Center, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amjad Mohamadi Bolbanabad
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Hamed Fattahi
- Centre for Primary Health Care Network Management, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran Iran
| | - Fatemeh Younesi
- Center for Health Human Resources Research & Studies, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Ebrazeh
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Azad Shokri
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
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Mackender E, Dave R, Tudor D, Harvey J. A Retrospective Audit of the Triage Process Introduced for Breast Referrals Received During the Covid-19 Pandemic. Clin Breast Cancer 2024; 24:e219-e225. [PMID: 38368248 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2024.01.010] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Due to restrictions on breast clinic appointments during the Covid-19 pandemic, a triage process was introduced for new patient referrals. The robustness of this process was examined by analysing the incidence of cancer diagnosis and wait times to treatment. METHODS Patients were triaged by secondary care consultant surgeons to an urgent appointment if they had high-risk symptoms based on prespecified guidelines eg, a lump or previous cancer. Those with non-urgent symptoms were seen on a deferred basis. A retrospective audit of patients referred between March 23 and July 20, 2020 was performed, to investigate incidence of cancer, concordance of primary and secondary care diagnosis, and the wait times to first appointment. RESULTS Most patients with breast-related symptoms received a face-to-face appointment (69%) with a Primary Care Physician (PCP) or Nurse Practitioner (NP), with 544 (31%) having a telephone PCP/NP appointment. Of 2023 patients, 1461 were triaged by the receiving breast unit to an urgent appointment, 461 to a deferred appointment and 101 to a breast pain telephone clinic. A diagnosis of breast cancer was made in 111/1461 (7.6%), 5/461 (1.1%) and 0% in these triaged groups respectively, and the median wait time to first appointment was 14 days (range 1-94), 32 days (range 6-114) and 21 days (range 10-52, P < .001). CONCLUSION The one-stop triage process was safe, with statistically fewer cancer diagnoses in patients allocated a deferred appointment, at a rate similar to that seen in a screening population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Mackender
- The Nightingale Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester Medical School, Manchester, UK.
| | - Rajiv Dave
- The Nightingale Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK; Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Daisy Tudor
- The Nightingale Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - James Harvey
- The Nightingale Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK; Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
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Zhang A, Koroukian S, Owusu C, Moore SE, Momotaz H, Albert JM. Loneliness and Crowded Living Predicted Poor Health in a Sample of Cancer Patients During COVID-19 Pandemic. Clin Nurs Res 2024; 33:370-383. [PMID: 38773912 DOI: 10.1177/10547738241252889] [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] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
We investigated the influence of social determinants of health (SDOH), healthcare services, and health behaviors on mental and physical health outcomes of cancer patients between the first winter and the following post-vaccine summer of the COVID-19 pandemic. A three-wave online survey of individuals diagnosed with incident cancer between January 2019 and January 2020 was conducted between November of 2020 and August of 2021 in northeast Ohio. Descriptive analysis and mixed-effect regression analyses were performed. A total of 322 newly diagnosed cancer patients, with 40 African Americans and 282 Whites (215 from metropolitan areas and 67 nonmetropolitan) responded to the survey questions. In Wave 3 ending in August 2021, the survey respondents reported significantly reduced depression (p = .019) on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and improved global health (p = .036) on PROMIS. With age, comorbidity, and other demographic and medical variables controlled in the analyses, the feeling of loneliness (p < .001) and crowded living space (p = .001, p = .015) were the two most prominent factors associated with depression, irritability, and poor global health at baseline, with the lowest p values and persistent effect. Self-efficacy of taking preventive measures was associated with reduced depression (p = .001) and improved global health (p = .029). Increasing access to medicine (p < .01) and satisfaction with telehealth appointments (p < .01) were significantly associated with better global health and reduced irritability. Respondents who had private health insurance reported better health than those that had Medicare coverage only (p < .05). This longitudinal, observational study demonstrated the impact of SDOH on health outcomes of cancer patients. Substandard living conditions resulting in loneliness and crowdedness, quality of medical care (e.g., quality telehealth and access to medicine), and personal behaviors (e.g., self-efficacy) were significantly associated with health outcomes in newly diagnosed cancer patients during the pandemic and should be given adequate consideration for the purpose of improving clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Zhang
- Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Siran Koroukian
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Cynthia Owusu
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Scott E Moore
- Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Hasina Momotaz
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Albert
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Rotondo-Trivette S, He XY, Samaan JS, Lv F, Truong E, Juels M, Nguyen A, Gao X, Zu J, Yeo YH, Ji FP, Melmed GY. Excess non-COVID-19-related mortality among inflammatory bowel disease decedents during the COVID-19 pandemic. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:2677-2688. [PMID: 38855149 PMCID: PMC11154683 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i20.2677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted healthcare in the United States. AIM To investigate COVID-19-related and non-COVID-19-related death and characteristics associated with excess death among inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) decedents. METHODS We performed a register-based study using data from the National Vital Statistics System, which reports death data from over 99% of the United States population, from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2021. IBD-related deaths among adults 25 years and older were stratified by age, sex, race/ethnicity, place of death, and primary cause of death. Predicted and actual age-standardized mortality rates (ASMRs) per 100000 persons were compared. RESULTS 49782 IBD-related deaths occurred during the study period. Non-COVID-19-related deaths increased by 13.14% in 2020 and 18.12% in 2021 [2020 ASMR: 1.55 actual vs 1.37 predicted, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.26-1.49; 2021 ASMR: 1.63 actual vs 1.38 predicted, 95%CI: 1.26-1.49]. In 2020, non-COVID-19-related mortality increased by 17.65% in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients between the ages of 25 and 65 and 36.36% in non-Hispanic black (NHB) Crohn's disease (CD) patients. During the pandemic, deaths at home or on arrival and at medical facilities as well as deaths due to neoplasms also increased. CONCLUSION IBD patients suffered excess non-COVID-19-related death during the pandemic. Excess death was associated with younger age among UC patients, and with NHB race among CD patients. Increased death at home or on arrival and due to neoplasms suggests that delayed presentation and difficulty accessing healthcare may have led to increased IBD mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Rotondo-Trivette
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
| | - Xin-Yuan He
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jamil S Samaan
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
| | - Fan Lv
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Emily Truong
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
| | - Michaela Juels
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Anthony Nguyen
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Xu Gao
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
- Division of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jian Zu
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yee Hui Yeo
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
| | - Fan-Pu Ji
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis and Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Surgical Critical Care and Life Support (Xi’an Jiaotong University), Ministry of Education, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Gil Y Melmed
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, United States
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Attieh S, Kilpatrick K, Chênevert D, Pomey MP, Loiselle CG. Measuring Team Functioning During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perspectives of Cancer Care Team Members. J Multidiscip Healthc 2024; 17:2623-2633. [PMID: 38828266 PMCID: PMC11141571 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s448985] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In a public health crisis such as COVID-19, cancer teams face significant challenges including acute work disruptions, rapid shifts in clinical practice, and burnout. Within this context, it is crucial to explore team functioning from the perspectives of multiple stakeholders. Objective This quantitative pilot study aimed to 1) measure perceptions of multi-stakeholders on key indicators of team functioning (Team Effectiveness, TE, and Team Relational Coordination, TRC) during COVID-19 and its transition, and 2) document whether patient perceptions of TE/TRC are significantly associated with their cancer care experiences. Methods A descriptive design with repeated measures was used. Through convenience sampling, participants were recruited from two outpatient cancer clinics at a large university-affiliated hospital, in Montréal, Qc, Canada. Sixty-six participants (ie, 13 healthcare professionals, 40 patients, 6 informal caregivers, and 7 volunteers) completed e-measures at T1 (years 2021-2022) and n = 44 at T2 (year 2023). Results At T1, participants reported high perceptions of Team Effectiveness (scale 1 to 6) M = 4.47; SD = 0.7 (Mdn = 4.54; IQR: 4.06-5) and Relational Coordination (scale 1 to 5) M = 3.77; SD = 0.77 (Mdn = 3.81; IQR: 3.12-4.38) with no significant differences in perceptions across the four groups. At T2, no significant changes in TE/TRC perceptions were found. At both time points, patient perceptions of TE/TRC were significantly correlated with positive cancer care experiences (Spearman rank correlation rs ranging from 0.69 and 0.83; p < 0.01). Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first study documenting perceptions of cancer team functioning amidst the pandemic as reported by multiple stakeholders. Significant relationships between patient perceptions of TE/TRC and their cancer care experiences underscore the importance of including patients' views in team functioning processes. Future work should rely on larger sample sizes to further explore key elements of optimal team functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar Attieh
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Kelley Kilpatrick
- Susan E. French Chair in Nursing Research and Innovative Practice, Ingram School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Denis Chênevert
- Department of Human Resources Management, HEC Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Pascale Pomey
- Research Centre of the University of Montreal Hospital Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre d’excellence sur le partenariat avec les patients et le public, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, School of Public Health, University of Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Carmen G Loiselle
- Ingram School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
- Segal Cancer Center, Jewish General Hospital, Montréal, Canada
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Barkas B, Kerr A, Hawkton G, Kish C. UK national newspapers' representation of cancer patients and their care during the early part of the COVID-19 pandemic: Invoking and undermining solidarity? SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2024. [PMID: 38795317 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic media narratives of solidarity often cast nations like the UK as if at war, while acclaiming health-care workers as heroic and beloved. However, this solidarity was often fragile and fleeting, as concerns and criticism about workers, citizens and services also circulated. In this article we explore these dynamics of solidarity in more depth, analysing framings of cancer patient suffering, private and public provision of health care in news media during the early part of the COVID-19 pandemic. We explore how cancer patients were positioned as victims of failure and abandonment by the state and its health-care providers, and how the private health-care system was presented in a saviour role. We conclude by reflecting on the implications of new media's alignment of appeals to solidarity with highly individualised forms of care and the consequences for state-based services founded on principles of solidarity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betsy Barkas
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Anne Kerr
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Gavin Hawkton
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Clare Kish
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Lee JS, Bhatt A, Pollack LM, Jackson SL, Omeaku N, Beasley KL, Wilson C, Luo F, Roy K. Racial and Ethnic Differences in Hypertension-Related Telehealth and In-Person Outpatient Visits Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Medicaid Beneficiaries. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:1262-1271. [PMID: 38241486 PMCID: PMC11065593 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Little is known about the trends and costs of hypertension management through telehealth among individuals enrolled in Medicaid. Methods: Using MarketScan® Medicaid database, we examined outpatient visits among people with hypertension aged 18-64 years. We presented the numbers of hypertension-related telehealth and in-person outpatient visits per 100 individuals and the proportion of hypertension-related telehealth outpatient visits to total outpatient visits by month, overall, and by race and ethnicity. For the cost analysis, we presented total and patient out-of-pocket (OOP) costs per visit for telehealth and in-person visits in 2021. Results: Of the 229,562 individuals, 114,445 (49.9%) were non-Hispanic White, 80,692 (35.2%) were non-Hispanic Black, 3,924 (1.71%) were Hispanic. From February to April 2020, the number of hypertension-related telehealth outpatient visits per 100 persons increased from 0.01 to 6.13, the number of hypertension-related in-person visits decreased from 61.88 to 52.63, and the proportion of hypertension-related telehealth outpatient visits increased from 0.01% to 10.44%. During that same time, the proportion increased from 0.02% to 13.9% for non-Hispanic White adults, from 0.00% to 7.58% for non-Hispanic Black adults, and from 0.12% to 19.82% for Hispanic adults. The average total and patient OOP costs per visit in 2021 were $83.82 (95% confidence interval [CI], 82.66-85.05) and $0.55 (95% CI, 0.42-0.68) for telehealth and $264.48 (95% CI, 258.87-269.51) and $0.72 (95% CI, 0.65-0.79) for in-person visits, respectively. Conclusions: Hypertension management via telehealth increased among Medicaid recipients regardless of race and ethnicity, during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings may inform telehealth policymakers and health care practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Soo Lee
- Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Ami Bhatt
- Applied Science, Research, and Technology Inc., (ASRT Inc.), Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Lisa M. Pollack
- Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sandra L. Jackson
- Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Nina Omeaku
- Applied Science, Research, and Technology Inc., (ASRT Inc.), Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kincaid Lowe Beasley
- Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Feijun Luo
- Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kakoli Roy
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Islam JY, Hathaway CA, Hume E, Turner K, Hallanger-Johnson J, Tworoger SS, Camacho-Rivera M. Racial and Ethnic Inequities in Cancer Care Continuity During the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Those With SARS-CoV-2. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2412050. [PMID: 38767916 PMCID: PMC11107297 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.12050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Racially and ethnically minoritized US adults were disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and experience poorer cancer outcomes, including inequities in cancer treatment delivery. Objective To evaluate racial and ethnic disparities in cancer treatment delays and discontinuations (TDDs) among patients with cancer and SARS-CoV-2 during different waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study used data from the American Society of Clinical Oncology Survey on COVID-19 in Oncology Registry (data collected from April 2020 to September 2022), including patients with cancer also diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 during their care at 69 US practices. Racial and ethnic differences were examined during 5 different waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States based on case surge (before July 2020, July to November 2020, December 2020 to March 2021, April 2021 to February 2022, and March to September 2022). Exposures Race and ethnicity. Main Outcomes and Measures TDD was defined as any cancer treatment postponed more than 2 weeks or cancelled with no plans to reschedule. To evaluate TDD associations with race and ethnicity, adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) were estimated using multivariable Poisson regression, accounting for nonindependence of patients within clinics, adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, comorbidities, cancer type, cancer extent, and SARS-CoV-2 severity (severe defined as death, hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, or mechanical ventilation). Results A total of 4054 patients with cancer and SARS-CoV-2 were included (143 [3.5%] American Indian or Alaska Native, 176 [4.3%] Asian, 517 [12.8%] Black or African American, 469 [11.6%] Hispanic or Latinx, and 2747 [67.8%] White; 2403 [59.3%] female; 1419 [35.1%] aged 50-64 years; 1928 [47.7%] aged ≥65 years). The analysis focused on patients scheduled (at SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis) to receive drug-based therapy (3682 [90.8%]), radiation therapy (382 [9.4%]), surgery (218 [5.4%]), or transplant (30 [0.7%]), of whom 1853 (45.7%) experienced TDD. Throughout the pandemic, differences in racial and ethnic inequities based on case surge with overall TDD decreased over time. In multivariable analyses, non-Hispanic Black (third wave: aPR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.31-1.85) and Hispanic or Latinx (third wave: aPR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.13-1.62) patients with cancer were more likely to experience TDD compared with non-Hispanic White patients during the first year of the pandemic. By 2022, non-Hispanic Asian patients (aPR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.08-2.12) were more likely to experience TDD compared with non-Hispanic White patients, and non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native patients were less likely (aPR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.16-0.89). Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional study of patients with cancer and SARS-CoV-2, racial and ethnic inequities existed in TDD throughout the pandemic; however, the disproportionate burden among racially and ethnically minoritized patients with cancer varied across SARS-CoV-2 waves. These inequities may lead to downstream adverse impacts on cancer mortality among minoritized adults in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Y. Islam
- Center for Immunization and Infection Research in Cancer, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Cassandra A. Hathaway
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Emma Hume
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Kea Turner
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | | | - Shelley S. Tworoger
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
- Division of Oncological Sciences, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
| | - Marlene Camacho-Rivera
- Department of Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, New York, New York
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Hayrumyan V, Abrahamyan A, Harutyunyan A, Libaridian L, Sahakyan S. Impact of COVID-19 on essential healthcare services at the primary healthcare level in Armenia: a qualitative study. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:131. [PMID: 38658818 PMCID: PMC11044568 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02377-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant global healthcare challenges, particularly impacting the continuity of essential health services in low- and middle-income countries. This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the utilization and provision of essential health services in Armenia. METHODS We employed a conventional qualitative study design, conducting semi-structured in-depth interviews (n = 17) within public and private primary healthcare (PHC) facilities in Armenia in 2021. Our study participants encompassed physicians providing specialty services in PHC facilities (e.g. endocrinologists, gynecologists/obstetricians, and pediatricians), regular visitors to PHC facilities (e.g. adults with chronic diseases, parents of children), and policymakers. Thematic analysis was conducted, yielding five emergent categories: mobilization and organization of PHC services during COVID-19; PHC visits during COVID-19; worsening of chronic conditions due to the decline in PHC visits; problems with routine childhood vaccinations; and patient-provider communication challenges. RESULTS The number of in-person visits to PHC facilities declined due to adaptations in service delivery, imposed lockdown measures, and the public's fear of visiting healthcare facilities. Maternal and child health services continued with no major disruptions. PHC providers deliberately limited the number of maternal and child visits to essential antenatal care, newborn screenings, and routine childhood immunizations. Still, children experienced some delays in vaccination administration. The pandemic resulted in a notable reduction in follow-up visits and monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, thereby exacerbating their chronic conditions. Phone calls were the primary method of patient-provider communication during the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the delivery and utilization of essential healthcare services at PHC facilities, especially for those with chronic conditions who needed continuous care. Unified national-level guidance and technical capacity are needed to direct the provision of essential services at the PHC level, promote effective health communication, and implement digital platforms for the uninterrupted provision of essential care during public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varduhi Hayrumyan
- Turpanjian College of Health Sciences, American University of Armenia, 40 Baghramyan Ave, Yerevan, 0019, Armenia.
| | - Arpine Abrahamyan
- Turpanjian College of Health Sciences, American University of Armenia, 40 Baghramyan Ave, Yerevan, 0019, Armenia
| | - Arusyak Harutyunyan
- Turpanjian College of Health Sciences, American University of Armenia, 40 Baghramyan Ave, Yerevan, 0019, Armenia
| | - Lorky Libaridian
- Turpanjian College of Health Sciences, American University of Armenia, 40 Baghramyan Ave, Yerevan, 0019, Armenia
| | - Serine Sahakyan
- Turpanjian College of Health Sciences, American University of Armenia, 40 Baghramyan Ave, Yerevan, 0019, Armenia
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10
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Hill KA, Colón-López V. Delays in Care by Race, Ethnicity, and Gender Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic Using Cross-Sectional Data From National Institutes of Health's All of Us Research Program. Womens Health Issues 2024:S1049-3867(24)00020-3. [PMID: 38599938 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Delays in receiving medical care are an urgent problem. This study aims to determine whether the odds of, and reasons for, experiencing care delays differ by gender, race-ethnicity, and survey completion before versus during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of survey data from participants age ≥18 in the National Institutes of Health's All of Us Research Program collected from May 6, 2018, to January 1, 2022. Logistic regressions were performed to assess the association of gender, race-ethnicity, and survey completion date with any of nine reasons for delaying care in the past 12 months. RESULTS Of 119,983 participants, 37.8% reported delaying care in the past 12 months. After adjusting for employment status, education, income, marital status, health insurance, and age, women of every race-ethnicity and Black and other race-ethnicity men were more likely than white men to report delays in care: Asian women (odds ratio [OR] 1.23; 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.13, 1.34]), Black men (OR 1.15; 95% CI [1.05, 1.25]) and women (OR 1.46; 95% CI [1.38, 1.54]), Hispanic women (OR 1.36; 95% CI [1.28, 1.44]), white women (OR 1.55; 95% CI [1.50, 1.60]), and other race-ethnicity men (OR 1.15; 95% CI [1.05, 1.27]) and women (OR 1.79; 95% CI [1.67, 1.91]). A small but statistically significant difference was seen in reports of care delays for non-pandemic-related reasons during versus before the COVID-19 pandemic (OR 0.88; 95% CI [0.83, 0.93]). CONCLUSIONS In this study of diverse U.S. participants, women and Black and other race-ethnicity men were more likely than white men to report delays in care, both before and during COVID-19. Addressing care delays may be necessary to ameliorate health disparities by race-ethnicity and gender.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vivian Colón-López
- University of Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cancer Control and Population Sciences Division, San Juan, Puerto Rico
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11
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Levesque DA, Lunardini MM, Adams SN, Payne EL, Neumann BG. Grief Coach: Feasibility and acceptability of a text message program for bereavement support among grievers in the United Kingdom. DEATH STUDIES 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38573792 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2024.2334080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
To address gaps in bereavement services in the UK, a national charity offered free access to Grief Coach, a 12-month text message-based grief support program. To assess the feasibility and acceptability of the approach, this study examined program reach, retention, and user satisfaction. Over 4000 grievers enrolled in the program over 13.5 months; 6- and 12-month retention rates were 87.8% and 83.2%. Among individuals responding to a satisfaction survey (response rate = 55.9%), 94.8% rated the program as moderately or very helpful and 95.4% said it contributed to their sense of being supported in their grief. Common themes emerging from a qualitative analysis of the written comments were how the program helped with coping with the pain of grief and user appreciation of the program. Grief Coach may be a promising component of high-quality grief support to meet the needs of grieving people in the UK.
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12
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Odunyemi A, Sohrabi H, Alam K. The evolution of household forgone essential care and its determinants during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria: A longitudinal analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296301. [PMID: 38564649 PMCID: PMC10986961 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Apart from the morbidity and mortality, the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has increased the predisposition of households in Nigeria to forgone care, thereby increasing their vulnerability to adverse health consequences. Since there is no previous study in Nigeria on the evolution of pandemic-related forgone care and its drivers, our study assess the evolution of the problem using descriptive and nationally representative panel data analyses. We found about a 30% prevalence of forgone care during the lockdown, which declined progressively afterwards, dropping by 69.50 percentage points between April 2020 and April 2022. This decline produced a surge in households needing care from about 35.00% in the early pandemic to greater than 50%, beginning in early 2021. The forgone care was primarily due to financial hindrances, movement restrictions, and supply-side disruptions. Household socioeconomic factors such as income loss had 2.74 [95%CI: 1.45-5.17] times higher odds of forgone care, job loss, food insecurity, and poverty were 87% (OR: 1.87 [95%CI: 1.25-2.79]), 60% (OR: 1.60 [95%CI: 1.12-2.31]) and 76% (OR: 1.76 [95%CI: 1.12-2.75]) more likely to predispose households to forgone care, respectively. Also, geographical location, such as the South-South zone, induced 1.98 [95%CI: 1.09-3.58] times higher odds of forgone care than North-Central. A married female household head increased the odds by 6.07 [95%CI: 1.72-21.47] times compared with an unmarried female head. However, having a married household head, social assistance, and North-East or North-West zone compared with North-Central increased the chance of accessing care by 69% (OR 0.31 [95%CI: 0.16-0.59]), 59%,(OR 0.41 [95%CI: 0.21-0.77]), 72% (OR 0.28 [95%CI: 0.15-0.53]) and 64% (OR 0.36 [95%CI: 0.20-0.65]), respectively. Non-communicable diseases, disability, old age, large household size and rural-urban location did not affect the forgone care. Our study highlights the need to strengthen Nigeria's health system, create policies to promote healthcare accessibility and prepare the country for future pandemic challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelakun Odunyemi
- Murdoch Business School, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia
- Hospitals’ Management Board, Alagbaka Estate, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Hamid Sohrabi
- Centre for Healthy Ageing, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Khurshid Alam
- Centre for Healthy Ageing, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia
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13
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Greteman BB, Del Vecchio NJ, Garcia‐Auguste CJ, Kahl AR, Gryzlak BM, Chrischilles EA, Charlton ME, Nash SH. Identifying predictors of COVID-related delays in cancer-specific medical care. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e7183. [PMID: 38629238 PMCID: PMC11022144 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.7183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Evidence of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer prevention and control is growing, but little is known about patient-level factors associated with delayed care. We analyzed data from a survey focused on Iowan cancer patients' COVID-19 experiences in the early part of the pandemic. METHODS Participants were recruited from the University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center's Patients Enhancing Research Collaborations at Holden (PERCH) program. We surveyed respondents on demographic characteristics, COVID-19 experiences and reactions, and delays in any cancer-related health care appointment, or cancer-related treatment appointments. Two-sided significance tests assessed differences in COVID-19 experiences and reactions between those who experienced delays and those who did not. RESULTS There were 780 respondents (26% response), with breast, prostate, kidney, skin, and colorectal cancers representing the majority of respondents. Delays in cancer care were reported by 29% of respondents. In multivariable-adjusted models, rural residents (OR 1.47; 95% CI 1.03, 2.11) and those experiencing feelings of isolation (OR 2.18; 95% CI 1.37, 3.47) were more likely to report any delay, where experiencing financial difficulties predicted delays in treatment appointments (OR 5.72; 95% CI 1.96, 16.67). Health insurance coverage and concern about the pandemic were not statistically significantly associated with delays. CONCLUSION These findings may inform cancer care delivery during periods of instability when treatment may be disrupted by informing clinicians about concerns that patients have during the treatment process. Future research should assess whether delays in cancer care impact long-term cancer outcomes and whether delays exacerbate existing disparities in cancer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanna B. Greteman
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of Iowa College of Public HealthIowa CityIowaUSA
| | | | | | | | - Brian M. Gryzlak
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of Iowa College of Public HealthIowa CityIowaUSA
| | | | - Mary E. Charlton
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of Iowa College of Public HealthIowa CityIowaUSA
- Iowa Cancer RegistryUniversity of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Sarah H. Nash
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of Iowa College of Public HealthIowa CityIowaUSA
- Iowa Cancer RegistryUniversity of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
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14
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Garnica M, Crusoe EDQ, Ribeiro G, Bittencourt R, Magalhães RJP, Zanella KR, Hallack Neto AE, Lima JS, Solo CB, Souza EG, Fernandes AM, Maiolino A, Hungria V. COVID-19 in multiple myeloma patients: frequencies and risk factors for hospitalization, ventilatory support, intensive care admission and mortality -cooperative registry from the Grupo Brasileiro de Mieloma Multiplo (GBRAM). Hematol Transfus Cell Ther 2024; 46:153-160. [PMID: 37718131 DOI: 10.1016/j.htct.2023.08.002] [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: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study evaluated outcomes and risk factors for COVID-19 in 91 Brazilian multiple myeloma (MM) patients between April 2020 and January 2022. RESULTS Of the 91 MM patients diagnosed with COVID-19, 64% had comorbidities and 66% required hospitalization due to COVID-19, with 44% needing ventilatory support and 37% intensive care. Age (OR 2.02; 95%CI 1.02 - 7.7) and hypertension OR 4.5; 95%CI 1.3 - 15.5) were independently associated with hospitalization and certain MM therapies (corticosteroids and monoclonal drugs) were associated with ventilatory support (OR 4.3; 95%CI 1.3 - 14 and OR 5.7; 95%CI 1.8 - 18, respectively), while corticosteroids and immunomodulatory drugs were linked to ICU admission (OR 5.1; 95% CI 1.4 - 18 and OR 3.4; 95%CI 1.1 - 10, respectively). The overall mortality rate was 30%, with the highest rate observed in the ICU (73%). Additionally, the ECOG performance status was linked to increased mortality (OR 11.5; 95%CI 1.9 - 69). The MM treatment was delayed in 63% of patients who recovered from COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS The findings highlight the need for preventing COVID-19 and prioritizing vaccination among MM patients, as they have high rates of severe outcomes in the event of COVID-19. It is also essential to monitor the potential clinical impacts of COVID-19 on MM patients in the long-term. Given the limited resources available in treating MM patients in Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic, outcomes might be worse in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcia Garnica
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Brazil; Tranplant Unit, Complexo Hospitalar de Niterói (DASA - CHN), Brazil.
| | - Edvan De Queiroz Crusoe
- Hospital Universitário Professor Edgar Santos (HUPES), Universidade Federal da Bahia, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Angelo Maiolino
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Brazil; Américas Centro de Oncologia Integrado, Brazil
| | - Vania Hungria
- Hematology, Santa Casa Medical School, Brazil; São Germano Clinic, Brazil
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15
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Martinez Leal I, Acquati C, Rogova A, Chen TA, Connors SK, Agrawal P, McNeill LH, Reitzel LR. Negotiating cancer alone: A qualitative study exploring care experiences of racially and ethnically diverse women diagnosed with breast cancer during COVID-19. J Health Psychol 2024; 29:367-381. [PMID: 38009435 PMCID: PMC11005304 DOI: 10.1177/13591053231214517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has critically impacted cancer care services including reduced screenings, diagnoses, and surgeries; particularly among Black and Latina/x women who already suffer worse outcomes. This qualitative study explored the care experiences of a diverse sample of breast cancer survivors (N = 21; 7 Black, 4 Hispanic, 10 White) undergoing treatment during the pandemic via online semi-structured interviews. Grounded theory analysis yielded the core category "negotiating cancer alone," that included: (1) psychological distress, negotiating the cancer trajectory in isolation; (2) provider/healthcare system diagnostic and treatment delays; (3) heightened anxiety about treatment delays causing cancer progression; (4) supportive care limitations; and (5) disparate experiences of cancer care disruptions. Black and Latina/x women described greater delays in care, financial challenges, treatment complications, and insurance limitations than White women. The study identifies cancer patients' pandemic-related psychological, healthcare system, and health equity challenges and suggests recommendations to support their increased psychological needs during oncologic care disruptions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiara Acquati
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA
- University of Houston, USA
| | - Anastasia Rogova
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA
- University of Houston, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Lorraine R Reitzel
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA
- University of Houston, USA
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16
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Axenhus M, Schedin-Weiss S, Tjernberg L, Winblad B. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on neurosurgery in the elderly population in Sweden. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:823. [PMID: 38491396 PMCID: PMC10941451 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18332-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a refocus of health care resources to acute care which has impacted on the capacity of healthcare systems to conduct neurological surgeries. The elderly population has been shown to be particularly vulnerable to the consequences of the pandemic. Less neurosurgery can result in great impact on public health by increasing morbidity and mortality in patients with malignancies and traumatic injuries. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on neurosurgical procedures in the elderly population in Sweden. METHODS In this retrospective observational study, the reported incidence of all neurosurgical procedures registered in the 21 Regions of Sweden during 2015-2021 in people aged 65 year or older was collected. Surgical procedures were classified according to the NOMESCO system of classification. Neurosurgery incidence was defined as the number of NOMESCO associated interventions per 100.000 inhabitants. ICD-10 codes associated with neurosurgery-related diagnoses and deaths were also collected. Expected incidence of neurosurgery, neurosurgery-associated deaths and brain cancer diagnoses was estimated and compared to actual outcomes. Decrease in the incidence of neurosurgery was compared to regional COVID-19 incidence, other types of surgery and surgery waiting times. RESULTS The incidence of several categories of neurosurgery decreased in Sweden during 2020 and 2021, although not as much as other surgical categories. Women were more affected than men by the decrease in neurosurgery which could be partly explained by a decrease in brain cancer diagnoses amongst women. There was an association between regional decrease in neurosurgery incidence and longer surgery waiting time. COVID-19 incidence in the region did not have an effect on regional decreases in neurosurgery incidence. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a reduction in the number of neurosurgical procedures performed in Sweden during 2020-2021, although not as much as in other European countries. There was regional difference in Sweden with respect to number of surgeries, and waiting time for elective surgeries although there was no increase in mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Axenhus
- Department of Clinical Sciences at Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Sophia Schedin-Weiss
- Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Tjernberg
- Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bengt Winblad
- Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Theme Inflammation and Aging, Karolinska University hospital, Huddinge, Sweden
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17
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Lugnier C, Sommerlatte S, Attenberger U, Beer AJ, Bentz M, Benz SR, Birkner T, Büntzel J, Ebert MPA, Fasching P, Fischbach W, Fokas E, Fricke B, Hense H, Grohmann E, Hofheinz RD, Hüppe D, Huster S, Jahn P, Klinkhammer-Schalke M, Knauf W, Kraeft AL, Maier BO, Marckmann G, Niegisch G, Otto L, Pelzer U, Piso P, Rosenau H, Schmitt J, Schoffer O, Sehouli J, Tannapfel A, Wedding U, Wesselmann S, Winkler EC, Zimmermann T, Wörmann B, Reinacher-Schick A, Schildmann J. Prioritization and Resource Allocation in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Recommendations for Colorectal and Pancreatic Cancer in Germany. Oncol Res Treat 2024; 47:296-305. [PMID: 38484712 DOI: 10.1159/000538171] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a scarcity of resources with various effects on the care of cancer patients. This paper provides an English summary of a German guideline on prioritization and resource allocation for colorectal and pancreatic cancer in the context of the pandemic. Based on a selective literature review as well as empirical and ethical analyses, the research team of the CancerCOVID Consortium drafted recommendations for prioritizing diagnostic and treatment measures for both entities. The final version of the guideline received consent from the executive boards of nine societies of the Association of Scientific Medical Societies in Germany (AWMF), 20 further professional organizations and 22 other experts from various disciplines as well as patient representatives. The guiding principle for the prioritization of decisions is the minimization of harm. Prioritization decisions to fulfill this overall goal should be guided by (1) the urgency relevant to avoid or reduce harm, (2) the likelihood of success of the diagnostic or therapeutic measure advised, and (3) the availability of alternative treatment options. In the event of a relevant risk of harm as a result of prioritization, these decisions should be made by means of a team approach. Gender, age, disability, ethnicity, origin, and other social characteristics, such as social or insurance status, as well as the vehemence of a patient's treatment request and SARS-CoV-2 vaccination status should not be used as prioritization criteria. The guideline provides concrete recommendations for (1) diagnostic procedures, (2) surgical procedures for cancer, and (3) systemic treatment and radiotherapy in patients with colorectal or pancreatic cancer within the context of the German healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine Lugnier
- Department of Hematology and Oncology with Palliative Care, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sabine Sommerlatte
- Institute for History and Ethics of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany,
| | - Ulrike Attenberger
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ambros J Beer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Martin Bentz
- Department of Internal Medicine III (Hematology, Oncology, Infectious Diseases and Palliative Care), Staedtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Stefan R Benz
- Department of General, Visceral, Thoracic and Pediatric Surgery, Hospital Boeblingen, Boeblingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Birkner
- Center for Evidence-Based Healthcare, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus and Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jens Büntzel
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Südharz Klinikum Nordhausen, Nordhausen, Germany
| | - Matthias P A Ebert
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Peter Fasching
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-European Metropolitan Region of Nuremberg, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Emmanouil Fokas
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, University of Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Birgit Fricke
- Arbeitskreis der Pankreatektomierten (AdP) e.V., Bonn, Germany
| | - Helene Hense
- Center for Evidence-Based Healthcare, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus and Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Ralf-Dieter Hofheinz
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Dietrich Hüppe
- Speaker of the Colorectal Carcinoma Specialist Group, Professional Association of Resident Gastroenterologists (BNG), Herne, Germany
| | - Stefan Huster
- Institute for Social and Health Law, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Patrick Jahn
- Health Services Research Working Group, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Halle (Saale), Germany
| | | | - Wolfgang Knauf
- Center for Hematology and Oncology Bethanien, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Kraeft
- Department of Hematology and Oncology with Palliative Care, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Bernd Oliver Maier
- Department for Palliative Medicine and Interdisciplinary Oncology, St. Josefs-Hospital Wiesbaden, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Georg Marckmann
- Institute of Ethics, History, and Theory of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Günter Niegisch
- Department of Urology, University Hospital and Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Dusseldorf, Germany
- Center for Integrated Oncology (CIO) Düsseldorf, CIO Aachen Bonn Köln Düsseldorf, Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Lutz Otto
- Arbeitskreis der Pankreatektomierten (AdP) e.V., Bonn, Germany
| | - Uwe Pelzer
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pompiliu Piso
- Department for General and Visceral Surgery, Krankenhaus Barmerzige Brueder Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Henning Rosenau
- Interdisciplinary Scientific Center Medicine - Ethics - Law of the Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Jochen Schmitt
- Center for Evidence-Based Healthcare, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus and Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Olaf Schoffer
- Center for Evidence-Based Healthcare, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus and Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jalid Sehouli
- Department of Gynecology with Center for Oncological Surgery, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Ulrich Wedding
- Department of Palliative Care, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Simone Wesselmann
- Head of the Certification Division of the German Cancer Society, Berlin, Germany
| | - Eva C Winkler
- Section Translational Medical Ethics, Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), NCT Heidelberg, a Partnership between DKFZ and Heidelberg University Hospital, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tanja Zimmermann
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Bernhard Wörmann
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Tumour Immunology, Department of Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anke Reinacher-Schick
- Department of Hematology and Oncology with Palliative Care, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jan Schildmann
- Institute for History and Ethics of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
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Boyle JM, Kuryba A, Blake HA, van der Meulen J, Fearnhead NS, Braun MS, Walker K. Inequalities in the recovery of colorectal cancer services during the COVID-19 pandemic: a national population-based study. Colorectal Dis 2024; 26:486-496. [PMID: 38302858 DOI: 10.1111/codi.16887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
AIM Evidence is lacking on whether there were inequalities in the recovery of colorectal cancer (CRC) services within the English National Health Service (NHS) following the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to evaluate recovery according to patient age and socioeconomic status. METHOD Using routinely collected data, CRC patients diagnosed and treated in the English NHS were identified for two timeframes: the 'initial pandemic period' (April-June 2020) and the 'pandemic period' (April 2020-March 2022). Poisson models evaluated changes in numbers of diagnoses, major resections, adjuvant chemotherapy and neoadjuvant radiotherapy use for each timeframe, relative to the equivalent pre-pandemic timeframe (April-June 2019 and April 2018-March 2020, respectively), stratified by age and socioeconomic status. Tumour stage at presentation was evaluated over time. RESULTS Substantial deficits in diagnoses, major resections and adjuvant chemotherapy were identified in the initial pandemic period, whilst the use of neoadjuvant radiotherapy increased. Overall, these deficits recovered. Patients outside screening age, and in the most deprived group, had greater deficits in diagnoses and major resections. There was no evidence of stage migration by June 2021. CONCLUSIONS CRC services showed recovery to baseline during the pandemic. However, evident inequalities must be addressed in ongoing recovery efforts. Long-term outcomes will fully establish the impact of the pandemic on CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemma M Boyle
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Clinical Effectiveness Unit, Royal College of Surgeons of England, London, UK
| | - Angela Kuryba
- Clinical Effectiveness Unit, Royal College of Surgeons of England, London, UK
| | - Helen A Blake
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Clinical Effectiveness Unit, Royal College of Surgeons of England, London, UK
| | - Jan van der Meulen
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Clinical Effectiveness Unit, Royal College of Surgeons of England, London, UK
| | - Nicola S Fearnhead
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
| | - Michael S Braun
- Department of Oncology, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Kate Walker
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Clinical Effectiveness Unit, Royal College of Surgeons of England, London, UK
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van Not OJ, van den Eertwegh AJ, Haanen JB, Blank CU, Aarts MJ, van Breeschoten J, van den Berkmortel FW, de Groot JWB, Hospers GA, Ismail RK, Kapiteijn E, Bloem M, De Meza MM, Piersma D, van Rijn RS, Stevense-den Boer MA, van der Veldt AA, Vreugdenhil G, Boers-Sonderen MJ, Blokx WA, Wouters MW, Suijkerbuijk KP. Improving survival in advanced melanoma patients: a trend analysis from 2013 to 2021. EClinicalMedicine 2024; 69:102485. [PMID: 38370537 PMCID: PMC10874714 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The prognosis of advanced melanoma patients has significantly improved over the years. We aimed to evaluate the survival per year of diagnosis. Methods All systemically treated patients diagnosed with advanced melanoma from 2013 to 2021 were included from the Dutch Melanoma Treatment Registry. Baseline characteristics and overall survival (OS) were compared between the different years of diagnosis. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate the association between year of diagnosis and OS. Findings For this cohort study, we included 6260 systemically treated advanced melanoma patients. At baseline, there was an increase over the years in age, the percentage of patients with an ECOG PS ≥ 2, with brain metastases, and a synchronous diagnosis of primary and unresectable melanoma. Median OS increased from 11.2 months (95% CI 10.0-12.4) for patients diagnosed in 2013 to 32.0 months (95% CI 26.6-36.7) for patients diagnosed in 2019. Median OS was remarkably lower for patients diagnosed in 2020 (26.6 months; 95% CI 23.9-35.1) and 2021 (24.0 months; 95% CI 20.4-NR). Patients diagnosed in 2020 and 2021 had a higher hazard of death compared to patients diagnosed in 2019, although this was not significant. The multivariable Cox regression showed a lower hazard of death for the years of diagnosis after 2013. In contrast, patients diagnosed in 2020 and 2021 had a higher hazard of death compared to patients diagnosed in 2019. Interpretation After a continuous survival improvement for advanced melanoma patients between 2013 and 2019, outcomes of patients diagnosed in 2020 and 2021 seem poorer. This trend of decreased survival remained after correcting for known prognostic factors and previous neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment, suggesting that it is explained by unmeasured factors, which-considering the timing-could be COVID-19-related. Funding For the Dutch Melanoma Treatment Registry (DMTR), the Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing foundation received a start-up grant from governmental organization The Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development (ZonMW, project number 836002002). The DMTR is structurally funded by Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck Sharpe & Dohme, Novartis, and Roche Pharma. Roche Pharma stopped funding in 2019, and Pierre Fabre started funding the DMTR in 2019. For this work, no funding was granted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier J. van Not
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, Leiden 2333AA, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht 3584CX, the Netherlands
| | - Alfons J.M. van den Eertwegh
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1118, Amsterdam 1081HZ, the Netherlands
| | - John B. Haanen
- Department of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066CX, the Netherlands
| | - Christian U. Blank
- Department of Molecular Oncology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066CX, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology & Immunology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066CX, the Netherlands
| | - Maureen J.B. Aarts
- Department of Medical Oncology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, P. Debyelaan 25, Maastricht 6229 HX, the Netherlands
| | - Jesper van Breeschoten
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, Leiden 2333AA, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1118, Amsterdam 1081HZ, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Geke A.P. Hospers
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, Groningen 9713GZ, the Netherlands
| | - Rawa K. Ismail
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, Leiden 2333AA, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen Kapiteijn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden 2333ZA, the Netherlands
| | - Manja Bloem
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, Leiden 2333AA, the Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Centre, Einthovenweg 20, Leiden 2333ZC, the Netherlands
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066CX, the Netherlands
| | - Melissa M. De Meza
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, Leiden 2333AA, the Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Centre, Einthovenweg 20, Leiden 2333ZC, the Netherlands
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066CX, the Netherlands
| | - Djura Piersma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Koningsplein 1, Enschede 7512KZ, the Netherlands
| | - Rozemarijn S. van Rijn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Centre Leeuwarden, Henri Dunantweg 2, Leeuwarden 8934AD, the Netherlands
| | | | - Astrid A.M. van der Veldt
- Department of Medical Oncology and Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, ‘s-Gravendijkwal 230, Rotterdam 3015CE, the Netherlands
| | - Gerard Vreugdenhil
- Department of Internal Medicine, Maxima Medical Centre, De Run 4600, Eindhoven 5504DB, the Netherlands
| | - Marye J. Boers-Sonderen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, Nijmegen 6525GA, the Netherlands
| | - Willeke A.M. Blokx
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht 3584CX, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - Michel W.J.M. Wouters
- Scientific Bureau, Dutch Institute for Clinical Auditing, Rijnsburgerweg 10, Leiden 2333AA, the Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Centre, Einthovenweg 20, Leiden 2333ZC, the Netherlands
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam 1066CX, the Netherlands
| | - Karijn P.M. Suijkerbuijk
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht 3584CX, the Netherlands
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20
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Amat MJ, Anderson TS, Shafiq U, Sternberg SB, Salant T, Fernandez L, Schiff GD, Aronson MD, Benneyan JC, Singer SJ, Graham KL, Phillips RS. Low Rate of Completion of Recommended Tests and Referrals in an Academic Primary Care Practice with Resident Trainees. Jt Comm J Qual Patient Saf 2024; 50:177-184. [PMID: 37996308 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcjq.2023.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A frequent, preventable cause of diagnostic errors involves failure to follow up on diagnostic tests, referrals, and symptoms-termed "failure to close the diagnostic loop." This is particularly challenging in a resident practice where one third of physicians graduate annually, and rates of patient loss due to these transitions may lead to more opportunities for failure to close diagnostic loops. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of failure of loop closure in a resident primary care clinic compared to rates in the faculty practice and identify factors contributing to failure. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included all patient visits from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2021, at two academic medical center-based primary care practices where residents and faculty practice in the same setting. The primary outcome was prevalence of failure to close the loop for (1) dermatology referrals, (2) colonoscopy, and (3) cardiac stress testing. The primary predictor was resident vs. faculty status of the ordering provider. The authors present an unadjusted analysis and the results of a multivariable logistic regression analysis incorporating all patient factors to determine their association with loop closure. RESULTS Of 12,282 orders for referrals and tests for the three studied areas, 1,929 (15.7%) were ordered by a resident physician. Of resident orders for all three tests, 52.9% were completed within the designated time vs. 58.4% for orders placed by attending physicians (p < 0.01). In an unadjusted analysis by test type, a similar trend was seen for colonoscopy (51.4% completion rate for residents vs. 57.5% for attending physicians, p < 0.01) and for cardiac stress testing (55.7% completion rate for residents vs. 61.2% for attending physicians), though a difference was not seen for dermatology referrals (64.2% completion rate for residents vs. 63.7% for attending physicians). In an adjusted analysis, patients with resident orders were less likely than attendings to close the loop for all test types combined (odds ratio 0.88, 95% confidence interval 0.79-0.98), with low rates of test completion for both physician groups. CONCLUSION Loop closure for three diagnostic interventions was low for patients in both faculty and resident primary care clinics, with lower loop closure rates in resident clinics. Failure to close diagnostic loops presents a safety challenge in primary care and is of particular concern for training programs.
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21
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Skeens MA, Ralph JE, Olsavsky AL, Buff K, Shah N, Akard TF, Gerhardt CA. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Quality of Life of Children With Cancer. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY/ONCOLOGY NURSING 2024; 41:85-95. [PMID: 38008953 DOI: 10.1177/27527530231194592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Background/objectives: Little is known about the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the quality of life (QoL) of children with cancer who may be more vulnerable to the pandemic's effects. We examined associations between COVID-19 exposure and impact on parent-proxy reported QoL in children with cancer, and potential moderation based on the child's cancer status (i.e., time since diagnosis, on/off treatment). Design/method: Parents of children with cancer were recruited February-April 2021 via Facebook and Momcology. Parents completed the COVID-19 Exposure and Family Impact Scale and a child QoL measure. Controlling for parent age, income, child age, and child sex, we examined the indirect effect of COVID-19 impact on the association between COVID-19 exposure and parent-proxy reported child QoL, as well as the moderating role of cancer status. Results: Parents (N = 401) reported lower child QoL scores (M = 59.74) than prepandemic reports of children with cancer, t(735) = -6.98, p < .001. Mediation analyses revealed a significant indirect effect, 95% CI [-0.47, -0.13]: Higher COVID-19 exposure was associated with higher COVID-19 impact (a = 0.47, p < .001), which was related to lower QoL (b = -0.56, p < .001). The association between impact and QoL was stronger as time since diagnosis increased (95%CI [-0.08, -0.001]), yet treatment status did not moderate this path. Conclusions: Parents who report greater COVID-19 impact may also report lower QoL in their children with cancer, especially further from diagnosis. Nurses and clinicians should be aware of the pandemic's negative impact and screen for COVID-19 related distress. Additionally, results highlight the importance of long-term, family-centered care, regardless of whether children receive treatment or survivorship care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micah A Skeens
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Jessica E Ralph
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Anna L Olsavsky
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Nilay Shah
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Cynthia A Gerhardt
- The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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22
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Frey A, Tilstra AM, Verhagen MD. Inequalities in healthcare use during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1894. [PMID: 38424038 PMCID: PMC10904793 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45720-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic led to reductions in non-COVID related healthcare use, but little is known whether this burden is shared equally. This study investigates whether reductions in administered care disproportionately affected certain sociodemographic strata, in particular marginalised groups. Using detailed medical claims data from the Dutch universal health care system and rich full population registry data, we predict expected healthcare use based on pre-pandemic trends (2017 - Feb 2020) and compare these expectations with observed healthcare use in 2020 and 2021. Our findings reveal a 10% decline in the number of weekly treated patients in 2020 and a 3% decline in 2021 relative to prior years. These declines are unequally distributed and are more pronounced for individuals below the poverty line, females, older people, and individuals with a migrant background, particularly during the initial wave of COVID-19 hospitalisations and for middle and low urgency procedures. While reductions in non-COVID related healthcare decreased following the initial shock of the pandemic, inequalities persist throughout 2020 and 2021. Our results demonstrate that the pandemic has not only had an unequal toll in terms of the direct health burden of the pandemic, but has also had a differential impact on the use of non-COVID healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun Frey
- Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science, 42 Park End St, Oxford, OX1 1JD, UK
- Nuffield College, University of Oxford, 1 New Rd, Oxford, OX1 1NF, UK
- Amsterdam Health and Technology Institute, Paasheuvelweg 25, Amsterdam, 1105 BP, The Netherlands
- Stanford University, 450 Jane Stanford Way, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Sociology, University of Oxford, 42 Park End St, Oxford, OX3 7LF, UK
| | - Andrea M Tilstra
- Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science, 42 Park End St, Oxford, OX1 1JD, UK
- Nuffield College, University of Oxford, 1 New Rd, Oxford, OX1 1NF, UK
- Department of Sociology, University of Oxford, 42 Park End St, Oxford, OX3 7LF, UK
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, 42 Park End St, Oxford, OX1 1JD, UK
| | - Mark D Verhagen
- Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science, 42 Park End St, Oxford, OX1 1JD, UK.
- Nuffield College, University of Oxford, 1 New Rd, Oxford, OX1 1NF, UK.
- Amsterdam Health and Technology Institute, Paasheuvelweg 25, Amsterdam, 1105 BP, The Netherlands.
- Department of Sociology, University of Oxford, 42 Park End St, Oxford, OX3 7LF, UK.
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, 42 Park End St, Oxford, OX1 1JD, UK.
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23
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Tam MW, Davis VH, Ahluwalia M, Lee RS, Ross LE. Impact of COVID-19 on access to and delivery of sexual and reproductive healthcare services in countries with universal healthcare systems: A systematic review. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0294744. [PMID: 38394146 PMCID: PMC10889625 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unforeseen impacts on sexual and reproductive healthcare (SRH) services worldwide, and the nature and prevalence of these changes have not been extensively synthesized. We sought to synthesise reported outcomes on the impact of COVID-19 on SRH access and delivery in comparable countries with universal healthcare systems. METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo, and CINAHL from January 1st, 2020 to June 6th, 2023. Original research was eligible for inclusion if the study reported on COVID-19 and SRH access and/or delivery. Twenty-eight OECD countries with comparable economies and universal healthcare systems were included. We extracted study characteristics, participant characteristics, study design, and outcome variables. The methodological quality of each article was assessed using the Quality Assessment with Diverse Studies (QuADS) tool. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed for reporting the results. This study was registered on PROSPERO (#CRD42021245596). SYNTHESIS Eighty-two studies met inclusion criteria. Findings were qualitatively synthesised into the domains of: antepartum care, intrapartum care, postpartum care, assisted reproductive technologies, abortion access, gynaecological care, sexual health services, and HIV care. Research was concentrated in relatively few countries. Access and delivery were negatively impacted by a variety of factors, including service disruptions, unclear communication regarding policy decisions, decreased timeliness of care, and fear of COVID-19 exposure. Across outpatient services, providers favoured models of care that avoided in-person appointments. Hospitals prioritized models of care that reduced time and number of people in hospital and aerosol-generating environments. CONCLUSIONS Overall, studies demonstrated reduced access and delivery across most domains of SRH services during COVID-19. Variations in service restrictions and accommodations were heterogeneous within countries and between institutions. Future work should examine long-term impacts of COVID-19, underserved populations, and underrepresented countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle W. Tam
- University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Victoria H. Davis
- Upstream Lab, MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Monish Ahluwalia
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rachel S. Lee
- University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lori E. Ross
- University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Villegas E, Arruñada M, Casado MÁ, González S, Moreno-Martínez ME, Peñuelas MÁ, Torres AM, Sierra Y, Seguí MA. National expert consensus on home-administered oncologic therapies in Spain. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1335344. [PMID: 38434688 PMCID: PMC10905380 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1335344] [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: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis and treatment of cancer impose a significant emotional and psychological burden on patients, families, and caregivers. Patients undergo several interventions in a hospital setting, and the increasing number of patients requiring extended care and follow-up is driving the demand for additional clinical resources to address their needs. Hospital at Home (HaH) teams have introduced home-administered oncologic therapies that represent a new model of patient-centered cancer care. This approach can be integrated with traditional models and offers benefits to both patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs). Home-administered treatment programs have been successfully piloted globally, demonstrated as a preferred option for most patients and a safe alternative that could reduce costs and hospital burden. The document aims to establish the minimum recommendations for the home administration of oncologic therapies (ODAH) based on a national expert agreement. The expert panel comprised seven leading members from diverse Spanish societies and three working areas: clinical and healthcare issues, logistical and administrative issues, and economic, social, and legal issues. The recommendations outlined in this article were obtained after a comprehensive literature review and thorough discussions. This document may serve as a basis for the future development of home-administered oncologic therapy programs in Spain. .
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Affiliation(s)
| | - María Arruñada
- Pharmacoeconomics & Outcomes Research Iberia (PORIB), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Sonia González
- Innovation in Clinical Pharmacy Research Group (i-FARMA-Vigo), Vigo, Spain
- Galicia Sur Health Research Institute (IIS Galicia Sur), Vigo, Spain
- University Hospital Complex of Vigo (SERGAS-UVIGO), Vigo, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Miguel Angel Seguí
- Parc Taulí Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
- Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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25
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Bell SK, Amat MJ, Anderson TS, Aronson MD, Benneyan JC, Fernandez L, Ricci DA, Salant T, Schiff GD, Shafiq U, Singer SJ, Sternberg SB, Zhang C, Phillips RS. Do patients who read visit notes on the patient portal have a higher rate of "loop closure" on diagnostic tests and referrals in primary care? A retrospective cohort study. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2024; 31:622-630. [PMID: 38164964 PMCID: PMC10873783 DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocad250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The 2021 US Cures Act may engage patients to help reduce diagnostic errors/delays. We examined the relationship between patient portal registration with/without note reading and test/referral completion in primary care. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective cohort study of patients with visits from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2021, and order for (1) colonoscopy, (2) dermatology referral for concerning lesions, or (3) cardiac stress test at 2 academic primary care clinics. We examined differences in timely completion ("loop closure") of tests/referrals for (1) patients who used the portal and read ≥1 note (Portal + Notes); (2) those with a portal account but who did not read notes (Portal Account Only); and (3) those who did not register for the portal (No Portal). We estimated the predictive probability of loop closure in each group after adjusting for socio-demographic and clinical factors using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS Among 12 849 tests/referrals, loop closure was more common among Portal+Note-readers compared to their counterparts for all tests/referrals (54.2% No Portal, 57.4% Portal Account Only, 61.6% Portal+Notes, P < .001). In adjusted analysis, compared to the No Portal group, the odds of loop closure were significantly higher for Portal Account Only (OR 1.2; 95% CI, 1.1-1.4), and Portal+Notes (OR 1.4; 95% CI, 1.3-1.6) groups. Beyond portal registration, note reading was independently associated with loop closure (P = .002). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Compared to no portal registration, the odds of loop closure were 20% higher in tests/referrals for patients with a portal account, and 40% higher in tests/referrals for note readers, after controlling for sociodemographic and clinical factors. However, important safety gaps from unclosed loops remain, requiring additional engagement strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigall K Bell
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Maelys J Amat
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Timothy S Anderson
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Mark D Aronson
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - James C Benneyan
- Healthcare Systems Engineering Institute, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Leonor Fernandez
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Dru A Ricci
- Center for Primary Care, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Talya Salant
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, United States
- Bowdoin Street Health Center, Dorchester, MA 02122, United States
| | - Gordon D Schiff
- Center for Primary Care, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Umber Shafiq
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Sara J Singer
- Department of Health Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, United States
| | - Scot B Sternberg
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Cancan Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Russell S Phillips
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, United States
- Center for Primary Care, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States
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26
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O'Dea A, Caulfield R, Roche MA. The Impact of COVID-19 Visitor Restrictions on Clinical Cancer Nurses. Semin Oncol Nurs 2024; 40:151530. [PMID: 38007320 DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2023.151530] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the impact of visitor restrictions on clinical cancer nurses, their roles and duties, and the coping strategies used to address the impact. DATA SOURCES Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted through purposive sampling with nurses working in a clinical role within cancer services at the study site for at least 1 year. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Textual data transcribed from interviews were analyzed for themes using NVivo version 12 software, following Braun and Clarke's six phases of thematic analysis. CONCLUSION Visitor restrictions implemented due to COVID-19 had a significant impact on clinical cancer nurses. The study found evidence of moral injury and conflict-within the role of the nurse, the implementation of organizational policies, and nurses' professional identity and personal beliefs. Despite this adversity, nurses remained committed to their clinical practice. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE Changes to nurses' roles and the practice environment have potentially significant impact on well-being and retention. To ensure that nurses can continue to provide high-quality nursing care in challenging environments, organizations must minimize this impact. Consistent communication and support activities, including recognizing and responding appropriately to situations, may be used in the reduction of potential moral injury and stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy O'Dea
- Nursing Honours Candidate, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Canberra, Bruce ACT, Australia.
| | - Rebecca Caulfield
- Lecturer, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Canberra, Bruce ACT; Registered Nurse, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, ACT
| | - Michael A Roche
- Professor of Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce ACT; Clinical Chair in Mental Health Nursing, SYNERGY Nursing & Midwifery Research Centre, ACT Health; Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo NSW, Australia
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27
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Jagielo AD, Chieng A, Tran C, Pirkl A, Cao-Nasalga A, Bragg A, Mirkin R, Prochaska JJ. Predictors of Patient Engagement in Telehealth-Delivered Tobacco Cessation Treatment during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:131. [PMID: 38397622 PMCID: PMC10887648 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21020131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Smoking causes one in three cancer deaths and may worsen COVID-19 outcomes. Telehealth tobacco cessation treatment is offered as a covered benefit for patients at the Stanford Cancer Center. We examined predictors of engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were abstracted from the Electronic Health Record between 3/17/20 (start of pandemic shelter-in-place) and 9/20/22, including patient tobacco use, demographics, and engagement in cessation treatment. Importance of quitting tobacco was obtained for a subset (53%). During the first 2.5 years of the pandemic, 2595 patients were identified as recently using tobacco, and 1571 patients were contacted (61%). Of the 1313 patients still using tobacco (40% women, mean age 59, 66% White, 13% Hispanic), 448 (34%) enrolled in treatment. Patient engagement was greater in pandemic year 1 (42%) than in year 2 (28%) and year 3 (19%). Women (41%) engaged more than men (30%). Patients aged 36-45 (39%), 46-55 (43%), 56-65 (37%), and 66-75 (33%) engaged more than patients aged 18-35 (18%) and >75 (21%). Hispanic/Latinx patients (42%) engaged more than non-Hispanic/Latinx patients (33%). Engagement was not statistically significantly related to patient race. Perceived importance of quitting tobacco was significantly lower in pandemic year 1 than year 2 or 3. Nearly one in three cancer patients engaged in telehealth cessation treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Engagement was greater earlier in the pandemic, among women, Hispanic/Latinx individuals, and patients aged 36 to 75. Sheltering-in-place, rather than greater perceived risk, may have facilitated patient engagement in tobacco cessation treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemarie D. Jagielo
- PGSP-Stanford PsyD Consortium, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA;
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Amy Chieng
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA;
| | - Cindy Tran
- Health Education, Engagement and Promotion, Stanford Healthcare, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; (C.T.); (A.P.); (A.C.-N.); (A.B.); (R.M.)
| | - Amy Pirkl
- Health Education, Engagement and Promotion, Stanford Healthcare, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; (C.T.); (A.P.); (A.C.-N.); (A.B.); (R.M.)
| | - Ann Cao-Nasalga
- Health Education, Engagement and Promotion, Stanford Healthcare, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; (C.T.); (A.P.); (A.C.-N.); (A.B.); (R.M.)
| | - Ashley Bragg
- Health Education, Engagement and Promotion, Stanford Healthcare, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; (C.T.); (A.P.); (A.C.-N.); (A.B.); (R.M.)
| | - Rachelle Mirkin
- Health Education, Engagement and Promotion, Stanford Healthcare, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; (C.T.); (A.P.); (A.C.-N.); (A.B.); (R.M.)
| | - Judith J. Prochaska
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA;
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Navarro-Sabate A, Font R, Martínez-Soler F, Solà J, Tortosa A, Ribes J, Benito-Aracil L, Espinas JA, Borras JM. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Adherence to Endocrine Therapy for Breast Cancer in Catalonia (Spain). Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:426. [PMID: 38275867 PMCID: PMC10814820 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020426] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose. To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adherence to oral endocrine therapy in patients diagnosed with breast cancer in the public healthcare system in Catalonia (Spain). Methods. Retrospective cohort study in patients starting endocrine therapy from 2017 to 2021. Adherence was measured during the first year of treatment, and the impact of the pandemic was calculated according to the calendar year and whether the first year of treatment included the peak period of the pandemic in our setting (March-September 2020). Analyses were performed using a chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression, with results stratified by year, age group, and drug type. Results. Mean overall adherence during the first year of treatment was 89.6% from 2017 to 2021. In contrast, the patients who started treatment in 2019 and 2020 and whose treatment included the peak pandemic period presented an adherence of 87.0% and 86.5%, respectively. Young age and tamoxifen or combination therapy were predictors of low adherence. An increase in neoadjuvant therapy was also observed in 2020. Conclusions. The COVID-19 pandemic had only a modest impact on adherence to endocrine therapy (≈3%), despite the enormous disruptions for patients, the healthcare system in general, and cancer care in particular that were occurring in that period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurea Navarro-Sabate
- Fundamental Care and Clinical Nursing Department, Nursing Faculty, University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (A.N.-S.); (F.M.-S.); (A.T.); (L.B.-A.)
| | - Rebeca Font
- Catalan Cancer Plan, Department of Health, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (R.F.); (J.R.); (J.A.E.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fina Martínez-Soler
- Fundamental Care and Clinical Nursing Department, Nursing Faculty, University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (A.N.-S.); (F.M.-S.); (A.T.); (L.B.-A.)
| | - Judit Solà
- Catalan Cancer Plan, Department of Health, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (R.F.); (J.R.); (J.A.E.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Avelina Tortosa
- Fundamental Care and Clinical Nursing Department, Nursing Faculty, University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (A.N.-S.); (F.M.-S.); (A.T.); (L.B.-A.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josepa Ribes
- Catalan Cancer Plan, Department of Health, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (R.F.); (J.R.); (J.A.E.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Clinical Sciences Department, University of Barcelona, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Llúcia Benito-Aracil
- Fundamental Care and Clinical Nursing Department, Nursing Faculty, University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (A.N.-S.); (F.M.-S.); (A.T.); (L.B.-A.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Alfons Espinas
- Catalan Cancer Plan, Department of Health, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (R.F.); (J.R.); (J.A.E.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Clinical Sciences Department, University of Barcelona, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Maria Borras
- Catalan Cancer Plan, Department of Health, 08908 Barcelona, Spain; (R.F.); (J.R.); (J.A.E.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Clinical Sciences Department, University of Barcelona, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
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Bloom JR, Rodriguez-Russo C, Hsieh K, Dickstein DR, Sheu RD, Jain M, Moshier E, Liu J, Gupta V, Kirke DN, Roof S, Misiukiewicz K, Posner M, Bakst R, Sindhu KK, Sharma S. Head and Neck Cancer Patient Population, Management, and Oncologic Outcomes from the COVID-19 Pandemic. Curr Oncol 2024; 31:436-446. [PMID: 38248114 PMCID: PMC10814981 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31010029] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic precipitated drastic changes in cancer care. Its impact on the U.S. head and neck cancer population has yet to be fully understood. This study aims to understand the impact of pandemic-related changes on the head and neck cancer population. An observational study of head and neck cancer patients at a single institution during the spring of 2020 and 2019 was performed. Clinical characteristics and survival outcomes were analyzed. In 2020, 54 head and neck cancer patients were evaluated in the department of radiation oncology vs. 74 patients seen in 2019; 42% of the patients were female in 2019 versus 24% in 2020 (p = 0.036). The median follow-up time was 19.4 and 31 months for 2020 and 2019, respectively. After adjusting for stage, the relapse-free survival probability at 6 and 12 months was 79% and 69% in 2020 vs. 96% and 89% in 2019, respectively (p = 0.036). There was no significant difference in the overall survival, with 94% and 89% in 2020 and 2019, respectively (p = 0.61). Twenty-one percent of patients received induction chemotherapy in 2020 versus 5% in 2019 (p = 0.011); significantly more treatment incompletions occurred in 2020, 9% vs. 0% in 2019 (p = 0.012). Moreover, the stage-adjusted RFS differed between cohorts, suggesting head and neck cancer patients seen during the initial wave of COVID-19 may experience worse oncologic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie R. Bloom
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA (K.K.S.)
| | - Carlos Rodriguez-Russo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA (K.K.S.)
| | - Kristin Hsieh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA (K.K.S.)
| | - Daniel R. Dickstein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA (K.K.S.)
| | - Ren-Dih Sheu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA (K.K.S.)
| | - Mayuri Jain
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Tisch Cancer Institute Biostatistics Shared Resource Facility, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Erin Moshier
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Tisch Cancer Institute Biostatistics Shared Resource Facility, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Jerry Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA (K.K.S.)
| | - Vishal Gupta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA (K.K.S.)
| | - Diana N. Kirke
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Scott Roof
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Krzysztof Misiukiewicz
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Marshall Posner
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Tisch Cancer Institute, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Richard Bakst
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA (K.K.S.)
| | - Kunal K. Sindhu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA (K.K.S.)
| | - Sonam Sharma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Summit Health, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922, USA
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Attieh S, Loiselle CG. Cancer Care Team Functioning during COVID-19: A Narrative Literature Review and Synthesis. Curr Oncol 2024; 31:335-349. [PMID: 38248107 PMCID: PMC10814830 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31010022] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Amid pandemics, health care teams face unprecedented challenges, requiring significant efforts to sustain optimal functioning and navigate rapid practice changes. It is therefore crucial to identify factors affecting team functioning in these contexts. The present narrative review more specifically summarizes the literature on key elements of cancer teams' functioning during COVID-19. The search strategy involved four main databases (i.e., Medline OVID, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL), as well as Google Scholar, from January 2000 to September 2022. Twenty-three publications were found to be relevant. Each was read thoroughly, and its content summarized. Across publications, three key themes emerged: (1) swiftly adopting virtual technology for communication and interprofessional collaboration, (2) promoting team resilience, and (3) encouraging self-care and optimizing team support. Our findings underscore key team functioning elements to address in future pandemics. More research is needed to document the perspectives of broader-based team members (such as patients and lay carers) to inform more comprehensive evidence-based team functioning guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar Attieh
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Carmen G. Loiselle
- Ingram School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2M7, Canada;
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3T2, Canada
- Segal Cancer Center, CIUSSS Centre-Ouest, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
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Lein A, Liu DT, Haas M, Salkic A, Ibrisevic A, Uscuplic S, Harcinovic A, Brkic T, Thurner T, F Brkic F. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on management of surgically treated laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. BIOMOLECULES & BIOMEDICINE 2024; 24:188-195. [PMID: 37638405 PMCID: PMC10787613 DOI: 10.17305/bb.2023.9481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted the treatment of cancer patients, particularly in terms of treatment choices. This study aimed to assess the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the management of surgically treated laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) patients, focusing specifically on changes in treatment modalities. We retrospectively analyzed the data from 102 patients who underwent surgical treatment for LSCC between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2021, at our tertiary medical center. Patient demographics, histological characteristics, and treatment modalities were extracted from electronic medical records and compared between two time periods: pre-COVID-19 and during COVID-19, marked by the introduction of the hospital entry triage. Of the total patients, 53 (52%) were in the pre-COVID-19 group, and 49 (48%) were in the COVID-19 group. No significant differences in patient characteristics at the initial work-up were observed between the two groups. However, a significant shift in treatment modalities was noted. Fewer patients received postoperative adjuvant therapy in the COVID-19 group (70.5%) compared to the pre-COVID-19 group (95.5%). Importantly, this change did not significantly impact the one-year overall survival (OS) rates. The reduction in the use of postoperative adjuvant therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic may be attributed to efforts to minimize hospital visits due to the risk of COVID-19 infection. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and to investigate the potential effects of such changes in treatment modalities on the long-term survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Lein
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - David T Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Haas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Almir Salkic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Clinical Center Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Azra Ibrisevic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Clinical Center Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Sabrina Uscuplic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Clinical Center Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Alen Harcinovic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Clinical Center Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Taria Brkic
- Friedrich-Alexander University, Erlangen-Nuernberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Thurner
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Faris F Brkic
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Ferranna M. Causes and costs of global COVID-19 vaccine inequity. Semin Immunopathol 2024; 45:469-480. [PMID: 37870569 PMCID: PMC11136847 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-023-00998-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Despite the rapid development of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines and the widely recognized health and economic benefits of vaccination, there exist stark differences in vaccination rates across country income groups. While more than 70% of the population is fully vaccinated in high-income countries, vaccination rates in low-income countries are only around 30%. The paper reviews the factors behind global COVID-19 vaccine inequity and the health, social, and economic costs triggered by this inequity. The main contributors to vaccine inequity include vaccine nationalism, intellectual property rights, constraints in manufacturing capacity, poor resilience of healthcare systems, and vaccine hesitancy. Vaccine inequity has high costs, including preventable deaths and cases of illnesses in low-income countries, slow economic recovery, and large learning losses among children. Increasing vaccination rates in low-income countries is in the self-interest of higher-income countries as it may prevent the emergence of new variants and continuous disruptions to global supply chains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Ferranna
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Economics, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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33
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Allen DZ, Ahmad JG, McKee SP, Suarez N, Basmaci UN, Alava I. The impact of the pandemic on the presentation and treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma at a county hospital. Am J Otolaryngol 2024; 45:104103. [PMID: 37988796 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2023.104103] [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: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic, initiating stay-at-home orders which delayed cancer care and screening. The impact on head and neck cancer care in populations at risk has yet to be elucidated. The objective of this investigation is to evaluate how the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cancer patients at a county hospital were affected by the pandemic. METHODS A retrospective review of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma that were diagnosed at a county hospital 365 days before and after stay-at-home orders were initiated. The primary outcomes were duration between diagnosis from imaging and initiation of treatment. Secondary outcomes included mortality, stage, nodal status, and distant metastasis at presentation. RESULTS There was a total of 105 diagnoses. Sixty-five (62 %) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma diagnoses were diagnosed before the stay-at-home orders were initiated, and 40 (38 %) after. Eighty percent (32/40) of diagnoses presenting after had stage IV disease compared to 58 % (38/65) in those before (p < 0.05). A higher percentage of patients who presented later had a >30-day delay to biopsy (43 % v. 20 %, OR: 3.0, p < 0.05). This difference was exacerbated by those with laryngeal, oral cavity, or oropharyngeal cancer (45 % v. 15 %, OR: 4.5, p < 0.05). There was a larger delay from diagnosis to treatment after the orders were initiated (68 v. 53, p < 0.05) however there was no difference in one-year mortality (25 % v. 23 %, p > 0.05). This investigation found a 14 % loss to follow-up. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this cohort of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma diagnoses at a county hospital, those diagnosed after the stay-at-home orders were initiated presented with more advanced disease. They also had more delays in diagnosis and initiation of treatment. There was no difference in one-year mortality rates between the two groups however there was a significant loss to follow-up, limiting prognostication. These findings serve to better prepare healthcare providers to implement optimized care during future shutdowns related to public health crises. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Z Allen
- The Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77004, United States of America.
| | - Jumah G Ahmad
- The Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77004, United States of America
| | - Sean P McKee
- The Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77004, United States of America
| | - Natalia Suarez
- The Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77004, United States of America
| | - Ugur Nur Basmaci
- The Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77004, United States of America
| | - Ibrahim Alava
- The Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77004, United States of America
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Murthy SS, Are C. Cancer surgery on the global stage: Updates and progress. J Surg Oncol 2024; 129:145-149. [PMID: 38059658 DOI: 10.1002/jso.27548] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Over 5 billion people lack access to basic surgical procedures, and it is estimated, the number of surgical procedures needed for cancer care will increase by 5 million from 2018 to 2040. The greatest increase in demand will occur in low- and middle-income countries. In this article, we highlight progress made in surgical cancer care globally and gaps that still needs to be addressed. We highlight political support, workforce progress and shortages, impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of high value cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa S Murthy
- Department of Surgery, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Chandrakanth Are
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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Washington T, Taylor A, Kieran K. Just Get in Line: Rural-Urban Differences in Access to Pediatric Renal-Bladder Ultrasounds. J Surg Res 2024; 293:511-516. [PMID: 37827029 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2023.09.021] [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: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Health-care disparities in rural and underserved areas may be exacerbated by the pandemic, personnel challenges, and supply chain limitations. This study aimed to quantify current variation in rural and urban pediatric renal ultrasound availability. METHODS We identified all hospitals statewide and contacted radiology departments posing as a parent trying to schedule an appointment for a routine pediatric renal-bladder ultrasound. Intervals between day of contact and first available appointment were compared between rural and urban institutions. RESULTS We were able to contact 42/48 (87.5%) rural hospitals, and 20/39 (51.3%) urban hospitals. Scheduling could not be completed in 5 rural and 7 urban hospitals. The median wait time for the 37 remaining rural and 13 remaining urban hospitals was similar: 7 (range: 0-21) days in rural hospitals and 6 (range: 0-17) days in urban hospitals (P = 0.81). If contact was made, the likelihood of scheduling within 7 d was similar in rural and urban areas (odds ratio [OR] = 0.23; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.03-1.97; P = 0.18). However, patients were much more likely to have a completed call at a rural hospital (OR = 6.65; 95% CI: 2.3-19.2; P = 0.0005), and so in reality, patients were 2.89 times as likely to be able to schedule an renal-bladder ultrasound within 7 d at a rural compared with an urban institution (95% CI: 1.19-7.03; P = 0.019). CONCLUSIONS While access to pediatric renal sonograms was similar within a week at rural and urban institutions once telephone contact was made, it was significantly more difficult to schedule appointments at urban institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Washington
- Division of Urology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Amy Taylor
- Division of Urology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Kathleen Kieran
- Division of Urology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington; Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
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Triki M, Zghal M, Ayed HB, Makni S, Bouhamed M, Fendri S, Charfi S, Boudawara T, Mellouli M. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on breast cancer pathological stage at diagnosis in Tunisian patients. Breast Dis 2024; 43:9-17. [PMID: 38363601 PMCID: PMC10894576 DOI: 10.3233/bd-230051] [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] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC) patients' diagnosis and management was affected by a global reorganization after the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Our study aimed to assess the impact of the pandemic on the pathological stage of newly diagnosed patients with BC compared to pre-pandemic and to identify predictive factors of tumor advanced stage. METHODS Pathological records of all consecutive newly operated BC patients between March 2020 and December 2021 were reviewed retrospectively. Clinical and pathological prognostic factors of BC were collected and compared between pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. Then, predictive factors of tumor advanced stage were identified. RESULTS Of the 225 cases included in the analysis, 98.7% were females and 1.3% were males. The median time from first histological diagnosis to first surgical treatment was enlarged by 42 days with a significant difference between the two periods (p = 0.002). Newly diagnosed BC patients during the COVID-19 pandemic were operated at a more advanced stage (54.1% vs 36.2%, p = 0.007), had a greater lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.002), lymph node metastasis (p = 0.015) and are more commonly of IBC NST histological type (p = 0.005). Moreover, multivariate analyses showed that the pandemic period (AOR = 2.28; p = 0.016) and the lympho-vascular invasion (p < 0.001) were independently associated with advanced stage of tumors. CONCLUSION Our findings proved an increase in alarming rates of advanced stage BC associated with the COVID-19 crisis. These findings support recommendations for a quick restoration of BC screening at full capacity, with adequate prioritization strategies to mitigate harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriam Triki
- Department of Pathology and Research Laboratory LR18SP10, Habib Bourguiba University Hospital, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Mouna Zghal
- Department of Pathology and Research Laboratory LR18SP10, Habib Bourguiba University Hospital, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Houda Ben Ayed
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Hedi Chaker University Hospital, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Saadia Makni
- Department of Pathology and Research Laboratory LR18SP10, Habib Bourguiba University Hospital, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Maroua Bouhamed
- Department of Pathology and Research Laboratory LR18SP10, Habib Bourguiba University Hospital, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Semi Fendri
- Department of General Surgery, Habib Bourguiba University Hospital, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Slim Charfi
- Department of Pathology and Research Laboratory LR18SP10, Habib Bourguiba University Hospital, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Tahya Boudawara
- Department of Pathology and Research Laboratory LR18SP10, Habib Bourguiba University Hospital, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Manel Mellouli
- Department of Pathology and Research Laboratory LR18SP10, Habib Bourguiba University Hospital, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
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Wickersham KE, Morrill KE, Lopez-Pentecost M, Heiney SP, King JJ, Madhivanan P, Hirschey R. Losing a part of life: experiences of cancer survivors accessing treatment and sheltering in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cancer Causes Control 2023; 34:149-157. [PMID: 37378866 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-023-01742-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore experiences of sheltering in place and accessing treatment during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic among survivors with cancer receiving tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy. METHODS Participants from two pilot studies evaluating TKI therapy use in the Southeastern United States during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020) were interviewed. Identical interview guides were used across both studies to assess participants' experiences accessing cancer treatment, sheltering in place, and coping during the COVID-19 pandemic. Digitally recorded sessions were transcribed professionally and checked for accuracy. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant sociodemographics, and a six-step thematic approach was used to analyze interview data and identify salient themes. Dedoose qualitative research software was used to manage and organize qualitative codes, themes, and memos. RESULTS Participants (n = 15) ranged from 43 to 84 years of age, and were mostly female (53.3%), married (60%), and survivors with hematologic malignancies (86.7%). The research team identified five salient themes: Participants followed pandemic guidelines, Variable impact on well-being, Common feelings of fear, anxiety and anger, No barriers to accessing therapy and medical care, and Faith and God as powerful forces for coping. CONCLUSIONS The conclusions of the study provide several implications for survivorship programs or clinics for supporting survivors who are taking chronic TKI therapy during COVID-19, including enhancement of current psychosocial support efforts for cancer survivors or development of new programs tailored to the unique needs of a survivor during a pandemic, such as focused coping strategies, modified physical activity programs, family/professional role changes, and access to safe public spaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Wickersham
- College of Nursing, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA.
| | - K E Morrill
- Community & System Health Sciences Division, College of Nursing, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - M Lopez-Pentecost
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - S P Heiney
- College of Nursing, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - J J King
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - P Madhivanan
- Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - R Hirschey
- School of Nursing, UNC Chapel Hill, and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Naz H, Apesoa-Varano EC, Romero C, Keegan T, Malogolowkin M, Callas C, Gosdin M, Alvarez E. How Do Adolescent and Young Adult Patients with Cancer Manage Their Chemotherapy-Related Symptoms at Home? J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2023; 12:923-928. [PMID: 37699237 PMCID: PMC10739787 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2022.0153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy can cause many distressing side effects, potentially impacting treatment completion and quality of life in adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer. To identify ways to help mitigate chemotherapy-related symptoms, we sought to elicit barriers and facilitators to managing symptoms experienced by AYAs with cancer through interviews. Qualitative thematic analysis identified three main domains: (1) managing chemotherapy symptoms (e.g., medication, home remedies), (2) anticipating and mitigating symptoms (e.g., management of symptoms at home, anticipatory guidance), and (3) knowing when to seek care (e.g., unexpected and unusual symptoms). This study elucidated that AYAs can successfully manage symptoms at home when given the proper guidance and this could be a focus of future efforts to improve outcomes in this population. The Clinical Trial Registration number is NCT04594096.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba Naz
- Center for Healthcare Policy and Research, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | | | - Crystal Romero
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Theresa Keegan
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Marcio Malogolowkin
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Christina Callas
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Melissa Gosdin
- Center for Healthcare Policy and Research, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Elysia Alvarez
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
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Englum BR, Sahoo S, Mayorga-Carlin M, Hayssen H, Siddiqui T, Turner DJ, Sorkin JD, Lal BK. Growing Deficit in New Cancer Diagnoses 2 Years Into the COVID-19 Pandemic: A National Multicenter Study. Ann Surg Oncol 2023; 30:8509-8518. [PMID: 37695458 PMCID: PMC10939008 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-023-14217-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Large decreases in cancer diagnoses were seen early in the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the evolution of these deficits since the end of 2020 and the advent of widespread vaccination is unknown. METHODS This study examined data from the Veterans Health Administration (VA) from 1 January 2018 through 28 February 2022 and identified patients with screening or diagnostic procedures or new cancer diagnoses for the four most common cancers in the VA health system: prostate, lung, colorectal, and bladder cancers. Monthly procedures and new diagnoses were calculated, and the pre-COVID era (January 2018 to February 2020) was compared with the COVID era (March 2020 to February 2022). RESULTS The study identified 2.5 million patients who underwent a diagnostic or screening procedure related to the four cancers. A new cancer was diagnosed for 317,833 patients. During the first 2 years of the pandemic, VA medical centers performed 13,022 fewer prostate biopsies, 32,348 fewer cystoscopies, and 200,710 fewer colonoscopies than in 2018-2019. These persistent deficits added a cumulative deficit of nearly 19,000 undiagnosed prostate cancers and 3300 to 3700 undiagnosed cancers each for lung, colon, and bladder. Decreased diagnostic and screening procedures correlated with decreased new diagnoses of cancer, particularly cancer of the prostate (R = 0.44) and bladder (R = 0.27). CONCLUSION Disruptions in new diagnoses of four common cancers (prostate, lung, bladder, and colorectal) seen early in the COVID-19 pandemic have persisted for 2 years. Although reductions improved from the early pandemic, new reductions during the Delta and Omicron waves demonstrate the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian R Englum
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shalini Sahoo
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Minerva Mayorga-Carlin
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Surgery Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hilary Hayssen
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Tariq Siddiqui
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Surgery Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Douglas J Turner
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Surgery Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John D Sorkin
- Geriatrics Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Brajesh K Lal
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Surgery Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Al-Rabi K, Al-Qadi F, Al-Ibraheem A, Halahleh K, Salah S, Ababneh H, Akkawi M, Sughayer M, Tafesh L, Abu Abed L, Ma'koseh M. The Impact COVID-19 Infection on Cancer Patients: A Tertiary Cancer Center Experience in Jordan. Cureus 2023; 15:e51310. [PMID: 38288187 PMCID: PMC10823193 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.51310] [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] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer patients are at higher risk of serious complications of COVID-19. Few studies evaluated the impact of COVID-19 on cancer patients in low- and middle-income countries. Our study aims to evaluate the outcomes of COVID-19 infection in cancer patients treated at our institution. Methods: Medical records of patients with a positive COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) between April 2020 and October 2020 were reviewed. Fisher's exact test and logistic regression analysis were employed to correlate various variables with mortality. Survival estimates were generated using the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS A total of 317 patients were included, with a median age was 55 years (range: 19-88). 82 (25.9%) had hematological neoplasms while the remainder had solid cancers. At the time of infection, 220 (69.4%) had active cancer, and 99 (31.2%) had received systemic anticancer treatment (SACT) within four weeks. Hospitalization was required for 101 (31.8%), 17 (5.3%) were admitted to the ICU and 50 (15.8%) died. Among patients with active cancer, SACT was delayed or discontinued in 140 (63.6%) patients. In the entire patient cohort, low albumin (p=<0.001) and leucocytosis (p=<0.001) correlated with mortality within six months of COVID-19 infection. The six-month mortality rate in patients with active cancer was significantly higher in patients with hypertension (p=0.024), no recent SACT (0.017), hematological cancer (p=0.029), low albumin (p=<0.001), leucocytosis (p=0.002) and lymphocyte count of less than 500/µL (p=0.004). Recent chemotherapy was associated with better 6-month survival rates (78.8% vs 89.9%, p=0.012) in patients with active cancer, patients with solid cancers (95.9% vs 82.2%, p=0.006) and was non-inferior in patient with hematological neoplasms (72% vs 65.4%, p=0.519). Conclusion: COVID-19 infection in our cancer patients was associated with significant morbidity and mortality and adversely affected their treatment. The decision to delay or discontinue SACT should be individualized, considering other risk factors for mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamal Al-Rabi
- Medical Oncology, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, JOR
- Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, JOR
| | - Fadwa Al-Qadi
- Internal Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, JOR
| | | | | | - Samer Salah
- Medical Oncology, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, JOR
| | - Hazim Ababneh
- Internal Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, JOR
| | | | - Maher Sughayer
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, JOR
| | - Lana Tafesh
- Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, JOR
| | - Layan Abu Abed
- Internal Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, JOR
| | - Mohammad Ma'koseh
- Medical Oncology, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, JOR
- Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, JOR
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Hammoudi SF, Ahmed O, An H, Hong Y, Ahn MH, Chung S. Adherence to Physical Distancing and Health Beliefs About COVID-19 Among Patients With Cancer. J Korean Med Sci 2023; 38:e336. [PMID: 37935163 PMCID: PMC10627725 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2023.38.e336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to validate questionnaires on adherence to physical distancing and health beliefs about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among patients with cancer and explore their interaction with depression or viral anxiety among them. METHODS Through an online survey, data from 154 cancer patients (female: 82.5%, breast cancer: 66.2%, current cancer treatment, presence: 65.6%) were collected from March to June 2022. The survey gathered responses to questionnaires on adherence to physical distancing, health beliefs about COVID-19, perceived social norms, Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-6 items, and Patient Health Questionnaire-2. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for construct validity and structural equation model (SEM) were performed. RESULTS The CFA showed a good model fit for adherence to physical distancing (comparative fit index [CFI] = 1.000, Tucker-Lewis index [TLI] = 0.930, root-mean-square-error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.000, and standardized root-mean-square residual [SRMR] = 0.050) and a satisfactory model fit for health beliefs about COVID-19 (CFI = 0.978, TLI = 0.971, RMSEA = 0.061, and SRMR = 0.089). Through SEM, we found that personal injunctive norms were the main mediators linking health beliefs with physical distancing in patients with cancer. Depression also mediated the effects of viral anxiety and perceived severity on physical distancing (χ² = 20.073, df = 15, P = 0.169; CFI = 0.984; RMSEA = 0.047). CONCLUSION The questionnaires are reliable and valid. Patients with cancer may be able to adhere to physical distancing by addressing perceived severity, viral anxiety, perceived benefits, self-efficacy, perceived barriers, as well as personal injunctive norms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oli Ahmed
- Department of Psychology, University of Chittagong, Chattogram, Bangladesh
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Hoyoung An
- Department of Psychiatry, Keyo Hospital, Uiwang, Korea
| | - Youjin Hong
- Department of Psychiatry, Gangneung Asan Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Gangneung, Korea
| | - Myung Hee Ahn
- Division of Psychiatry, Health Screening and Promotion Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Seockhoon Chung
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Gligorić K, Kamath C, Weiss DJ, Bavadekar S, Liu Y, Shekel T, Schulman K, Gabrilovich E. Revealed versus potential spatial accessibility of healthcare and changing patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic. COMMUNICATIONS MEDICINE 2023; 3:157. [PMID: 37923904 PMCID: PMC10624905 DOI: 10.1038/s43856-023-00384-9] [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: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Timely access to healthcare is essential but measuring access is challenging. Prior research focused on analyzing potential travel times to healthcare under optimal mobility scenarios that do not incorporate direct observations of human mobility, potentially underestimating the barriers to receiving care for many populations. METHODS We introduce an approach for measuring accessibility by utilizing travel times to healthcare facilities from aggregated and anonymized smartphone Location History data. We measure these revealed travel times to healthcare facilities in over 100 countries and juxtapose our findings with potential (optimal) travel times estimated using Google Maps directions. We then quantify changes in revealed accessibility associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS We find that revealed travel time differs substantially from potential travel time; in all but 4 countries this difference exceeds 30 minutes, and in 49 countries it exceeds 60 minutes. Substantial variation in revealed healthcare accessibility is observed and correlates with life expectancy (⍴=-0.70) and infant mortality (⍴=0.59), with this association remaining significant after adjusting for potential accessibility and wealth. The COVID-19 pandemic altered the patterns of healthcare access, especially for populations dependent on public transportation. CONCLUSIONS Our metrics based on empirical data indicate that revealed travel times exceed potential travel times in many regions. During COVID-19, inequitable accessibility was exacerbated. In conjunction with other relevant data, these findings provide a resource to help public health policymakers identify underserved populations and promote health equity by formulating policies and directing resources towards areas and populations most in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Gligorić
- Google Research, Mountain View, CA, USA
- Computer Science Department, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Daniel J Weiss
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | | | - Yun Liu
- Google Research, Mountain View, CA, USA
| | | | - Kevin Schulman
- Clinical Excellence Research Center, School of Medicine and Graduate School of Business, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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Chen S, James SA, Hall S, Dang JH, Campbell JE, Chen MS, Doescher MP. Avoidance of medical care among American Indians with a history of cancer during the coronavirus pandemic. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1265071. [PMID: 38026426 PMCID: PMC10664709 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1265071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Assess the percentage of cancer-related appointment delays, cancelations, and the unavailability of medications experienced by American Indian participants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This cross-sectional survey study was completed between October 2020 and July 2021 by 360 individuals with cancer who lived in California and Oklahoma. Binary and multivariate logistic regression analysis was completed in SAS 9.4. Results During the initial Covid-19 pandemic, almost one-third (30%) of respondents delayed cancer-related appointments, 42% canceled cancer-related appointments, and one-quarter (24%) were unable to access prescription medications or over-the-counter medications (27%) due to COVID-19. People who underwent testing for COVID-19 were five times more likely to delay a medical appointment [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 5.3, 95% CI:2.4, 11.7] and people who followed three or more social distancing measures were more than six times more likely to cancel medical appointments (aOR:6.3, 95% CI:2.9, 13.9). Conclusion This study identifies delays, cancelations, and medication inaccessibility people identifying as American Indian faced during the coronavirus pandemic. Disparities in healthcare delivery could contribute to increased morbidity and mortality rates of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sixia Chen
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Shirley A. James
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Spencer Hall
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Julie H. Dang
- UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Janis E. Campbell
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Moon S. Chen
- UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Mark P. Doescher
- Stephenson Cancer Center, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
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Khan Y, Verhaeghe N, Devleesschauwer B, Cavillot L, Gadeyne S, Pauwels N, Van den Borre L, De Smedt D. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on delayed care of cardiovascular diseases in Europe: a systematic review. EUROPEAN HEART JOURNAL. QUALITY OF CARE & CLINICAL OUTCOMES 2023; 9:647-661. [PMID: 37667483 DOI: 10.1093/ehjqcco/qcad051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has disrupted healthcare systems, causing delays in essential medical services, and potentially impacting CVD treatment. This study aims to estimate the impact of the pandemic on delayed CVD care in Europe by providing a systematic overview of the available evidence. METHODS AND RESULTS PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched until mid-September 2022 for studies focused on the impact of delayed CVD care due to the pandemic in Europe among adult patients. Outcomes were changes in hospital admissions, mortality rates, delays in seeking medical help after symptom onset, delays in treatment initiation, and change in the number of treatment procedures. We included 132 studies, of which all were observational retrospective. Results were presented in five disease groups: ischaemic heart diseases (IHD), cerebrovascular accidents (CVA), cardiac arrests (CA), heart failures (HF), and others, including broader CVD groups. There were significant decreases in hospital admissions for IHD, CVA, HF and urgent and elective cardiac procedures, and significant increases for CA. Mortality rates were higher for IHD and CVA. CONCLUSION The pandemic led to reduced acute CVD hospital admissions and increased mortality rates. Delays in seeking medical help were observed, while urgent and elective cardiac procedures decreased. Adequate resource allocation, clear guidelines on how to handle care during health crises, reduced delays, and healthy lifestyle promotion should be implemented. The long-term impact of pandemics on delayed CVD care, and the health-economic impact of COVID-19 should be further evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmine Khan
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels 1050, Belgium
- Department of Sociology, Interface Demography, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels 1050, Belgium
| | - Nick Verhaeghe
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
- Research Institute for Work and Society, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Brecht Devleesschauwer
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels 1050, Belgium
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke 9000, Belgium
| | - Lisa Cavillot
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels 1050, Belgium
- Research Institute of Health and Society, University of Louvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Sylvie Gadeyne
- Department of Sociology, Interface Demography, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels 1050, Belgium
| | - Nele Pauwels
- Faculty of Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Laura Van den Borre
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels 1050, Belgium
- Department of Sociology, Interface Demography, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels 1050, Belgium
| | - Delphine De Smedt
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
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Chtourou A, Sanchez PV, Golden T, Chen HS, Schwartz SM, Wu XC, Hernandez BY, Harrison JN, Penberthy L, Negoita S. Impact on the Volume of Pathology Reports Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic in SEER Cancer Registries. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023; 32:1591-1598. [PMID: 37594474 PMCID: PMC10618747 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-23-0066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Health care procedures including cancer screening and diagnosis were interrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The extent of this impact on cancer care in the United States is not fully understood. We investigated pathology report volume as a reflection of trends in oncology services pre-pandemic and during the pandemic. METHODS Electronic pathology reports were obtained from 11 U.S. central cancer registries from NCI's SEER Program. The reports were sorted by cancer site and document type using a validated algorithm. Joinpoint regression was used to model temporal trends from January 2018 to February 2020, project expected counts from March 2020 to February 2021 and calculate observed-to-expected ratios. Results were stratified by sex, age, cancer site, and report type. RESULTS During the first 3 months of the pandemic, pathology report volume decreased by 25.5% and 17.4% for biopsy and surgery reports, respectively. The 12-month O/E ratio (March 2020-February 2021) was lowest for women (O/E 0.90) and patients 65 years and older (O/E 0.91) and lower for cancers with screening (melanoma skin, O/E 0.86; breast, O/E 0.88; lung O/E 0.89, prostate, O/E 0.90; colorectal, O/E 0.91) when compared with all other cancers combined. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate a decrease in cancer diagnosis, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This decrease in the number of pathology reports may result in a stage shift causing a subsequent longer-term impact on survival patterns. IMPACT Investigation on the longer-term impact of the pandemic on pathology services is vital to understand if cancer care delivery levels continue to be affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina Chtourou
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Pamela V. Sanchez
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Todd Golden
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Huann-Sheng Chen
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Stephen M. Schwartz
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Xiao-Cheng Wu
- Louisiana Tumor Registry, Epidemiology Program, School of Public Health, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Los Angeles
| | | | - Jovanka N. Harrison
- New York State Cancer Registry, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York
| | - Lynne Penberthy
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Serban Negoita
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland
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Tamari K, Kishigami M, Nagata Y, Mizowaki T, Kodaira T, Onishi H, Ogawa K, Shioyama Y, Shigematsu N, Uno T. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on radiotherapy delivery in Japan: An observational study based on the national database. Cancer Med 2023; 12:21032-21040. [PMID: 37902228 PMCID: PMC10709724 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study analyzed the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on radiotherapy delivery in Japan using a high-quality Japanese national database based on universal health coverage. METHODS We performed a retrospective observational study using National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Checkups of Japan open data focused on radiotherapy between fiscal year (FY) 2019 and FY2020 and the number of COVID-19 cases from the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare. We statistically analyzed the relationship between the number of COVID-19 cases and the number of radiotherapy deliveries in Japan as a whole and by prefecture. RESULTS The total number of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) fractions was 4,472,140 in FY2019 and 4,227,673 in FY2020 (-5.8%). EBRT courses were 250,395 in FY2019 and 240,329 in FY2020 (-4.0%), stereotactic radiotherapy courses were 27,619 in FY2019 and 31,786 in FY2020 (+15.1%), and single-fraction palliative radiotherapy courses were 4124 in FY2019 and 5255 in FY2020 (+21.5%). The total number of breast and prostate hypofractionated radiotherapy (HFRT) fractions was 155,773 and 48,188 in FY2019, and 200,256 and 84,230 in FY2020 (+28.6% and +74.8%), respectively. In the Pearson correlation analysis, EBRT fractions were lower, and breast HFRT fractions were higher in prefectures with more COVID-19 cases. CONCLUSIONS Overall, radiotherapy delivery in Japan was relatively stable after the pandemic, with an increase in HFRT. Also, EBRT fractions decreased, and breast HFRT were more likely to be used in prefectures with more COVID-19 cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Tamari
- Department of Radiation OncologyOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Maiko Kishigami
- Department of Radiation OncologyOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | - Yasushi Nagata
- Department of Radiation OncologyHiroshima University HospitalHiroshimaJapan
| | - Takashi Mizowaki
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Image‐Applied Therapy, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Takeshi Kodaira
- Department of Radiation OncologyAichi Cancer Center HospitalAichiJapan
| | - Hiroshi Onishi
- Department of RadiologyUniversity of Yamanashi School of MedicineYamanashiJapan
| | - Kazuhiko Ogawa
- Department of Radiation OncologyOsaka University Graduate School of MedicineOsakaJapan
| | | | | | - Takashi Uno
- Department of RadiologyChiba University Graduate School of MedicineChibaJapan
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Otty Z, Brown A, Larkins S, Evans R, Sabesan S. Patient and carer experiences of lung cancer referral pathway in a regional health service: a qualitative study. Intern Med J 2023; 53:2016-2027. [PMID: 36710377 DOI: 10.1111/imj.16022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer referral pathways aim to reduce delays and improve referral patterns of people with suspected lung cancer. AIM As part of implementing a lung cancer referral pathway at a regional Australian hospital, this study aimed to explore the experiences and perceptions of people with lung cancer and their carers. METHODS In-depth interviews were used to elicit data for thematic analysis in this cross-sectional descriptive qualitative study. Patients with newly diagnosed lung cancer and their carers at a regional academic cancer centre were invited to participate in interviews. Five interviews were conducted face-to-face, and 14 interviews were conducted by telephone (as per interviewee preference). Interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed and qualitatively analysed. Descriptive phrases were used to generate initial inductive codes and themes. RESULTS Nineteen participants approached agreed to take part in the study. Factors that positively impacted the care experience were good communication, timeliness and patient advocacy and support. Improper communication, long waiting times for investigations and appointments, uncertainty about the process and inconsistent advice from providers negatively impacted the care experience. Participants preferred face-to-face or video-linked consultations over telephone consultations. CONCLUSIONS Understanding the experiences of rural and regional patients and carers with the lung cancer referral pathway is important to improve quality of care. Implementing changes to the referral pathway to improve patient and carer experiences needs to be an ongoing quality improvement exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulfiquer Otty
- Townsville Cancer Centre, Townsville University Hospital, Queensland, Townsville, Australia
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Queensland, Townsville, Australia
| | - Amy Brown
- Townsville Cancer Centre, Townsville University Hospital, Queensland, Townsville, Australia
| | - Sarah Larkins
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Queensland, Townsville, Australia
| | - Rebecca Evans
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Queensland, Townsville, Australia
| | - Sabe Sabesan
- Townsville Cancer Centre, Townsville University Hospital, Queensland, Townsville, Australia
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Queensland, Townsville, Australia
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Khan Y, Verhaeghe N, De Pauw R, Devleesschauwer B, Gadeyne S, Gorasso V, Lievens Y, Speybroek N, Vandamme N, Vandemaele M, Van den Borre L, Vandepitte S, Vanthomme K, Verdoodt F, De Smedt D. Evaluating the health and health economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on delayed cancer care in Belgium: A Markov model study protocol. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288777. [PMID: 37903130 PMCID: PMC10615261 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer causes a substantial burden to our society, both from a health and an economic perspective. To improve cancer patient outcomes and lower society expenses, early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential. The recent COVID-19 crisis has disrupted the care trajectory of cancer patients, which may affect their prognosis in a potentially negative way. The purpose of this paper is to present a flexible decision-analytic Markov model methodology allowing the evaluation of the impact of delayed cancer care caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium which can be used by researchers to respond to diverse research questions in a variety of disruptive events, contexts and settings. METHODS A decision-analytic Markov model was developed for 4 selected cancer types (i.e. breast, colorectal, lung, and head and neck), comparing the estimated costs and quality-adjusted life year losses between the pre-COVID-19 situation and the COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium. Input parameters were derived from published studies (transition probabilities, utilities and indirect costs) and administrative databases (epidemiological data and direct medical costs). One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses are proposed to consider uncertainty in the input parameters and to assess the robustness of the model's results. Scenario analyses are suggested to evaluate methodological and structural assumptions. DISCUSSION The results that such decision-analytic Markov model can provide are of interest to decision makers because they help them to effectively allocate resources to improve the health outcomes of cancer patients and to reduce the costs of care for both patients and healthcare systems. Our study provides insights into methodological aspects of conducting a health economic evaluation of cancer care and COVID-19 including insights on cancer type selection, the elaboration of a Markov model, data inputs and analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmine Khan
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Verhaeghe
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Research Institute for Work and Society, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Robby De Pauw
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Brecht Devleesschauwer
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Sylvie Gadeyne
- Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vanessa Gorasso
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yolande Lievens
- Radiation Oncology Department, Ghent University Hospital and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Niko Speybroek
- Research Institute of Health and Society, University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nancy Vandamme
- Research Department, Belgian Cancer Registry, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Miet Vandemaele
- Radiation Oncology Department, Ghent University Hospital and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Laura Van den Borre
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
- Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sophie Vandepitte
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Vanthomme
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Interface Demography, Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Freija Verdoodt
- Research Department, Belgian Cancer Registry, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Delphine De Smedt
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Torloni MR, Betran AP, Vazquez Corona M, Bohren M, Widmer M. What do healthcare providers think of the quality of uterotonics? A mixed-methods systematic review. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e068442. [PMID: 37899165 PMCID: PMC10618966 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-068442] [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: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To synthesise evidence on the perceptions of healthcare providers (HCPs) about the quality of oxytocin and misoprostol available in their settings, and their actions as a result of these perceptions. DESIGN Mixed-methods systematic review. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included quantitative and qualitative studies reporting HCPs' perceptions about oxytocin or misoprostol quality. DATA SOURCES We searched CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Ebscohost, Embase, PubMed, Global Index Medicus, Portal regional BVS, PsycNET, Scopus and Web of Science from inception to 31 March 2022 and grey literature. RISK OF BIAS We used the Center for Evidence-Based Management critical appraisal tool for surveys. For qualitative studies, we used the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Two independent reviewers performed study selection, data extraction and quality assessment. We conducted separate quantitative and qualitative syntheses and integrated the evidence into a narrative synthesis (convergent segregated review design). RESULTS We included five (three quantitative and two qualitative) studies, of moderate or high quality, conducted in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). In the three quantitative studies (N=7065 participants), 8.2-21.3% of HCPs had experienced problems due to known/suspected low-quality oxytocin and 3.3% due to low-quality misoprostol. In the two qualitative studies, perception of oxytocin quality varied. In quantitative studies, when confronted with suspected/known low-quality oxytocin, 29-78% of HCPs would inform a supervisor, 62% would document this in writing, 45-54% would change to another drug and 5-37% would double the dose of oxytocin. Qualitative evidence suggests that many HCPs do not formally report suspected low-quality oxytocin or misoprostol, and use higher doses or additional uterotonics. CONCLUSIONS A proportion of HCPs from LMICs perceive oxytocin to be of low quality. There is very limited evidence on their perceptions about misoprostol. Many HCPs do not report suspected low-quality uterotonics but change to another medicine or double the dose of oxytocin. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022323812.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Regina Torloni
- Evidence Based Healthcare Post-Graduate Program, São Paulo Federal University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Pilar Betran
- UNDP-UNFPA-UNICEF-WHO-World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Martha Vazquez Corona
- Gender and Women's Health Unit, Nossal Institute for Global Health, School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Meghan Bohren
- Gender and Women's Health Unit, Nossal Institute for Global Health, School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mariana Widmer
- UNDP-UNFPA-UNICEF-WHO-World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
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Purchase T, Cooper A, Price D, Dorgeat E, Williams H, Bowie P, Fournier JP, Hibbert P, Edwards A, Phillips R, Joseph-Williams N, Carson-Stevens A. Analysis of applying a patient safety taxonomy to patient and clinician-reported incident reports during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed methods study. BMC Med Res Methodol 2023; 23:234. [PMID: 37838681 PMCID: PMC10576389 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-023-02057-6] [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: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in major disruption to healthcare delivery worldwide causing medical services to adapt their standard practices. Learning how these adaptations result in unintended patient harm is essential to mitigate against future incidents. Incident reporting and learning system data can be used to identify areas to improve patient safety. A classification system is required to make sense of such data to identify learning and priorities for further in-depth investigation. The Patient Safety (PISA) classification system was created for this purpose, but it is not known if classification systems are sufficient to capture novel safety concepts arising from crises like the pandemic. We aimed to review the application of the PISA classification system during the COVID-19 pandemic to appraise whether modifications were required to maintain its meaningful use for the pandemic context. METHODS We conducted a mixed-methods study integrating two phases in an exploratory, sequential design. This included a comparative secondary analysis of patient safety incident reports from two studies conducted during the first wave of the pandemic, where we coded patient-reported incidents from the UK and clinician-reported incidents from France. The findings were presented to a focus group of experts in classification systems and patient safety, and a thematic analysis was conducted on the resultant transcript. RESULTS We identified five key themes derived from the data analysis and expert group discussion. These included capitalising on the unique perspective of safety concerns from different groups, that existing frameworks do identify priority areas to investigate further, the objectives of a study shape the data interpretation, the pandemic spotlighted long-standing patient concerns, and the time period in which data are collected offers valuable context to aid explanation. The group consensus was that no COVID-19-specific codes were warranted, and the PISA classification system was fit for purpose. CONCLUSIONS We have scrutinised the meaningful use of the PISA classification system's application during a period of systemic healthcare constraint, the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these constraints, we found the framework can be successfully applied to incident reports to enable deductive analysis, identify areas for further enquiry and thus support organisational learning. No new or amended codes were warranted. Organisations and investigators can use our findings when reviewing their own classification systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Purchase
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14, UK
| | - Alison Cooper
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14, UK
- PRIME Centre Wales, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Delyth Price
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14, UK
- PRIME Centre Wales, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Emma Dorgeat
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14, UK
| | | | - Paul Bowie
- Medical Directorate, NHS Education for Scotland, Glasgow, UK
- School of Health, Science and Wellbeing, Staffordshire University, Stafford, UK
| | - Jean-Pascal Fournier
- Département de Médecine Générale, Faculté de Médecine, Nantes Université, Nantes, France
| | - Peter Hibbert
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- Allied Health and Human Performance, IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Adrian Edwards
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14, UK
- PRIME Centre Wales, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Rhiannon Phillips
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Natalie Joseph-Williams
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14, UK
- PRIME Centre Wales, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Andrew Carson-Stevens
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14, UK.
- PRIME Centre Wales, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
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