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Rankin JL, McCann J, Topmiller M, Grolling D, Benjamin T, Yu-Lefler H, Hoang H, Sripipatana A. Quantifying Population Characteristics Within and Outside a 30-Minute Drive-Time to Health Resources and Services Administration-Supported Health Centers. J Ambul Care Manage 2024:00004479-990000000-00050. [PMID: 39028274 DOI: 10.1097/jac.0000000000000507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
The Health Resources and Services Administration's (HRSA) Health Center Program provides health care to vulnerable persons across the US, regardless of their ability to pay for health care. We examined characteristics of populations living within and outside a 30-minute drive-time to HRSA-supported health centers to establish a baseline to better understand the differences in these populations. Using a descriptive, cross-sectional study design and geographic information systems, we found that 94% of persons in the US live within a 30-minute drive-time of a health center. Of those outside a 30-minute drive-time to a health center, 11.7 million (60.11%) are rural and over 1.5 million households (20.32%) lack broadband internet access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Rankin
- Author Affiliations: HealthLandscape, Robert Graham Center, American Academy of Family Physicians, Washington, District of Columbia (Dr Rankin, Ms McCann, Dr Topmiller, and Mr Grolling); and Bureau of Primary Health Care, Health Resources and Services Administration, US Department of Health and Human Services, Rockville, Maryland (Ms Benjamin and Drs Yu-Lefler, Hoang, and Sripipatana)
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Ahmed N, Sun F, Teigland C, Kilgore KM, Mohammadi I, Chambers J, Dieyi C, Feng C, Osborn J, Fu C, Gergis U. Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Access in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Association of Access with Social Determinants of Health and Travel Time to Treatment Centers. Transplant Cell Ther 2024; 30:714-725. [PMID: 38697294 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2024.04.017] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR T) therapy represents a novel treatment with curative potential for relapsed or refractory (R/R) LBCL, but there are access barriers to this innovative therapy that are not well-studied. Study objectives were: (1) Assess the impact of geographic factors and social determinants of health (SDOH) on access to treatment with CAR T in a sample of patients with R/R LBCL and ≥2 prior lines of therapy (LOT). (2) Compare and contrast patient characteristics, SDOH, and travel time between patients with R/R LBCL who received CAR T and those who did not. An observational, nested case-control study of patients with R/R LBCL, ≥2 prior LOT, not in a clinical trial, identified using 100% Medicare Fee-For-Service and national multi-payer claims databases. Patients were linked to near-neighborhood SDOH using 9-digit ZIP-code address. Driving distance and time between residence and nearest CAR T treatment center (TC) was calculated. Patients were stratified based on treatments received upon third LOT initiation (Index Date) or later: (1) received CAR T and (2) did not receive CAR T. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with CAR T. 5011 patients met inclusion criteria, with 628 (12.5%) in the CAR T group. Regression models found the likelihood of receiving CAR T decreased with patient age (odds ratio [OR] = .96, P < .001), and males were 29% more likely to receive CAR T (OR = 1.29, P = .02). Likelihood of CAR T increased with Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI; OR = 1.07, P < .001) indicating patients with more comorbidities were more likely to receive CAR T. Black patients were less than half as likely to receive CAR T than White patients (OR = .44, P = .01). Asian patients did not significantly differ from White patients (OR = 1.43, P = .24), and there was a trend for Hispanic patients to have a slightly lower likelihood of CAR T (OR = .50, P = .07). Higher household income was associated with receipt of CAR T, with the lowest income group more than 50% less likely to receive CAR T than the highest (OR = .44, P = .002), and the second lowest income group more than 30% less likely (OR = .68, P = .02). Finally, likelihood of CAR T therapy was reduced when the driving time to the nearest TC was 121 to 240 minutes (reference group: ≤30 minutes; OR = .64, P = .04). Travel times between 31 and 121 or greater than 240 minutes were not significantly different from ≤30 minutes. Payer type was collinear with age and could not be included in the regression analysis, but patients with commercial insurance were 1.5 to 3 times more likely to receive CAR T than other payers on an unadjusted basis. We identified significant disparities in access to CAR T related to demographics and SDOH. Patients who were older, female, low income, or Black were less likely to receive CAR T. The positive association of CCI with CAR T requires further research. Given the promising outcomes of CAR T, there is urgent need to address identified disparities and increase efforts to overcome access barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nausheen Ahmed
- The University of Kansas Cancer Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Fang Sun
- Kite, a Gilead Company, Santa Monica, California
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Christine Fu
- Kite, a Gilead Company, Santa Monica, California
| | - Usama Gergis
- Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Parsons HM, Muffly LS, Garcia A, Zhang A, Miller K, Van Riper D, Knowles K, Keegan TH. Travel-time barriers to specialized cancer care for adolescents and young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. JNCI Cancer Spectr 2024; 8:pkae046. [PMID: 38845074 PMCID: PMC11229987 DOI: 10.1093/jncics/pkae046] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior studies demonstrate that 20%-50% of adolescents and young adults (age 15-39 years) with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) receive care at specialty cancer centers, yet a survival benefit has been observed for patients at these sites. Our objective was to identify patients at risk of severe geographic barriers to specialty cancer center-level care. METHODS We used data from the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries Cancer in North America database to identify adolescent and young adult ALL patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2016 across 43 US states. We calculated driving distance and travel time from counties where participants lived to the closest specialty cancer center sites. We then used multivariable logistic regression models to examine the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics of counties where adolescent and young adult ALL patients resided and the need to travel more than 1 hour to obtain care at a specialty cancer center. RESULTS Among 11 813 adolescent and young adult ALL patients, 43.4% were aged 25-39 years, 65.5% were male, 32.9% were Hispanic, and 28.7% had public insurance. We found 23.6% of adolescent and young adult ALL patients from 60.8% of included US counties would be required to travel more than 1 hour one way to access a specialty cancer center. Multivariable models demonstrate that patients living in counties that are nonmetropolitan, with lower levels of educational attainment, with higher income inequality, with lower internet access, located in primary care physician shortage areas, and with fewer hospitals providing chemotherapy services are more likely to travel more than 1 hour to access a specialty cancer center. CONCLUSIONS Substantial travel-related barriers exist to accessing care at specialty cancer centers across the United States, particularly for patients living in areas with greater concentrations of historically marginalized communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen M Parsons
- Division of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Lori S Muffly
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ariadna Garcia
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Amy Zhang
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kate Miller
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David Van Riper
- Minnesota Population Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kate Knowles
- Minnesota Population Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Theresa H Keegan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Nah S, Savla J, Roberto KA. Dementia Care in Rural Appalachia: Multilevel Analysis of Individual- and County-Level Factors. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2024; 64:gnae037. [PMID: 38661552 PMCID: PMC11192855 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnae037] [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: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Home- and community-based services (HCBS) are underutilized, despite offering significant health benefits to both care recipients and caregivers. Drawing upon Andersen's extended behavioral model of health services use, we examined individual- and county-level factors influencing HCBS utilization for dementia care in rural Appalachia. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We analyzed data from telephone interviews with 123 dementia family caregivers in rural Appalachian counties (Mage = 64.7, SDage = 12.2). Multilevel analyses were conducted to examine the effects of individual-level and county-level factors on the use of home-based services (home healthcare and personal care services) as well as community-based services (adult day care and transportation services). RESULTS Results indicated that caregivers' receipt of informal support from family or friends was associated with more use of home-based services (B = 0.42, p = .003). Conversely, longer travel times to service providers were linked to use of fewer community-based services (B = -0.21, p < .001). Residing in counties with more home health agencies was associated with higher utilization of home-based services (B = 0.41, p = .046). However, higher county tax expenditures for HCBS were not linked to home-based or community-based service use. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Findings suggest that informal support in caring for the person living with dementia enables HCBS use in rural Appalachia. In contrast, limited geographic accessibility and service availability can impede HCBS use in rural regions. Policymakers are urged to allocate direct public funding to service providers to expand service availability in underresourced rural regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyoung Nah
- Center for Gerontology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Jyoti Savla
- Center for Gerontology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Human Development and Family Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Karen A Roberto
- Center for Gerontology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Institute for Society, Culture, and Environment, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
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Rocque GB, Caston NE, Hildreth K, Deng L, Henderson NL, Williams CP, Azuero A, Jackson BE, Franks JA, McGowan C, Huang CHS, Dent D, Ingram S, Odom JN, Eltoum N, Weiner B, Howell D, Stover AM, Pierce JY, Basch E. Engagement Among Diverse Patient Backgrounds in a Remote Symptom Monitoring Program. JCO Oncol Pract 2024:OP2400066. [PMID: 38917385 DOI: 10.1200/op.24.00066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Previous randomized controlled trials have demonstrated benefit from remote symptom monitoring (RSM) with electronic patient-reported outcomes. However, the racial diversity of enrolled patients was low and did not reflect the real-world racial proportions for individuals with cancer. METHODS This secondary, cross-sectional analysis evaluated engagement of patients with cancer in a RSM program. Patient-reported race was grouped as Black, Other, or White. Patient address was used to map patient residence to determine rurality using Rural-Urban Commuting Area Codes and neighborhood disadvantage using Area Deprivation Index. Key outcomes included (1) being approached for RSM enrollment, (2) declining enrollment, (3) adherence with RSM via continuous completion of symptom surveys, and (4) withdrawal from RSM participation. Risk ratios (RR) and 95% CI were estimated from modified Poisson models with robust SEs. RESULTS Between May 2021 and May 2023, 883 patients were approached to participate, of which 56 (6%) declined RSM. Of those who enrolled in RSM, a total of 27% of patients were Black or African American and 67% were White. In adjusted models, all patient population subgroups of interest had similar likelihoods of being approached for RSM participation; however, Black or African American patients were more than 3× more likely to decline participation than White participants (RR, 3.09 [95% CI, 1.73 to 5.53]). Patients living in more disadvantaged neighborhoods were less likely to decline (RR, 0.49 [95% CI, 0.24 to 1.02]), but less likely to adhere to surveys (RR, 0.81 [95% CI, 0.68 to 0.97]). All patient populations had a similar likelihood of withdrawing. CONCLUSION Black patients and individuals living in more disadvantaged neighborhoods are at risk for lower engagement in RSM. Further work is needed to identify and overcome barriers to equitable participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle B Rocque
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, AL
| | - Nicole E Caston
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Keyonsis Hildreth
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Luqin Deng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Nicole L Henderson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Courtney P Williams
- Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Andres Azuero
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, Birmingham, AL
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Bradford E Jackson
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Jeffrey A Franks
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Chelsea McGowan
- University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Chao-Hui Sylvia Huang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - D'Ambra Dent
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Stacey Ingram
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - J Nicholas Odom
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Noon Eltoum
- Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Bryan Weiner
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Doris Howell
- Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Angela M Stover
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | | | - Ethan Basch
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
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Burus T, VanHelene AD, Rooney MK, Lang Kuhs KA, Christian WJ, McNair C, Mishra S, Paulino AC, Smith GL, Frank SJ, Warner JL. Travel-Time Disparities in Access to Proton Beam Therapy for Cancer Treatment. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2410670. [PMID: 38758559 PMCID: PMC11102024 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.10670] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Proton beam therapy is an emerging radiotherapy treatment for patients with cancer that may produce similar outcomes as traditional photon-based therapy for many cancers while delivering lower amounts of toxic radiation to surrounding tissue. Geographic proximity to a proton facility is a critical component of ensuring equitable access both for indicated diagnoses and ongoing clinical trials. Objective To characterize the distribution of proton facilities in the US, quantify drive-time access for the population, and investigate the likelihood of long commutes for certain population subgroups. Design, Setting, and Participants This population-based cross-sectional study analyzed travel times to proton facilities in the US. Census tract variables in the contiguous US were measured between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2021. Statistical analysis was performed from September to November 2023. Exposures Drive time in minutes to nearest proton facility. Population totals and prevalence of specific factors measured from the American Community Survey: age; race and ethnicity; insurance, disability, and income status; vehicle availability; broadband access; and urbanicity. Main Outcomes and Measures Poor access to proton facilities was defined as having a drive-time commute of at least 4 hours to the nearest location. Median drive time and percentage of population with poor access were calculated for the entire population and by population subgroups. Univariable and multivariable odds of poor access were also calculated for certain population subgroups. Results Geographic access was considered for 327 536 032 residents of the contiguous US (60 594 624 [18.5%] Hispanic, 17 974 186 [5.5%] non-Hispanic Asian, 40 146 994 [12.3%] non-Hispanic Black, and 195 265 639 [59.6%] non-Hispanic White; 282 031 819 [86.1%] resided in urban counties). The median (IQR) drive time to the nearest proton facility was 96.1 (39.6-195.3) minutes; 119.8 million US residents (36.6%) lived within a 1-hour drive of the nearest proton facility, and 53.6 million (16.4%) required a commute of at least 4 hours. Persons identifying as non-Hispanic White had the longest median (IQR) commute time at 109.8 (48.0-197.6) minutes. Multivariable analysis identified rurality (odds ratio [OR], 2.45 [95% CI, 2.27-2.64]), age 65 years or older (OR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.06-1.11]), and living below the federal poverty line (OR, 1.22 [1.20-1.25]) as factors associated with commute times of at least 4 hours. Conclusions and Relevance This cross-sectional study of drive-time access to proton beam therapy found that disparities in access existed among certain populations in the US. These results suggest that such disparities present a barrier to an emerging technology in cancer treatment and inhibit equitable access to ongoing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd Burus
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington
| | | | - Michael K. Rooney
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Krystle A. Lang Kuhs
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington
- Department of Epidemiology & Environmental Health, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington
| | - W. Jay Christian
- Department of Epidemiology & Environmental Health, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington
| | - Christopher McNair
- Department of Cancer Biology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sanjay Mishra
- Lifespan Cancer Institute, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence
- Center for Clinical Cancer Informatics and Data Science, Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Arnold C. Paulino
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Grace L. Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Steven J. Frank
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Jeremy L. Warner
- Lifespan Cancer Institute, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence
- Center for Clinical Cancer Informatics and Data Science, Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
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Jain A, LaValley M, Dukes K, Lane K, Winter M, Spangler KR, Cesare N, Wang B, Rickles M, Mohammed S. Modeling health and well-being measures using ZIP code spatial neighborhood patterns. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9180. [PMID: 38649687 PMCID: PMC11035567 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58157-w] [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: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Individual-level assessment of health and well-being permits analysis of community well-being and health risk evaluations across several dimensions of health. It also enables comparison and rankings of reported health and well-being for large geographical areas such as states, metropolitan areas, and counties. However, there is large variation in reported well-being within such large spatial units underscoring the importance of analyzing well-being at more granular levels, such as ZIP codes. In this paper, we address this problem by modeling well-being data to generate ZIP code tabulation area (ZCTA)-level rankings through spatially informed statistical modeling. We build regression models for individual-level overall well-being index and scores from five subscales (Physical, Financial, Social, Community, Purpose) using individual-level demographic characteristics as predictors while including a ZCTA-level spatial effect. The ZCTA neighborhood information is incorporated by using a graph Laplacian matrix; this enables estimation of the effect of a ZCTA on well-being using individual-level data from that ZCTA as well as by borrowing information from neighboring ZCTAs. We deploy our model on well-being data for the U.S. states of Massachusetts and Georgia. We find that our model can capture the effects of demographic features while also offering spatial effect estimates for all ZCTAs, including ones with no observations, under certain conditions. These spatial effect estimates provide community health and well-being rankings of ZCTAs, and our method can be deployed more generally to model other outcomes that are spatially dependent as well as data from other states or groups of states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhi Jain
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, 02118, USA
| | - Michael LaValley
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, 02118, USA
| | - Kimberly Dukes
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, 02118, USA.
| | - Kevin Lane
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, 02118, USA
| | - Michael Winter
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology Data Analytics Center, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, 02118, USA
| | - Keith R Spangler
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, 02118, USA
| | - Nina Cesare
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology Data Analytics Center, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, 02118, USA
| | - Biqi Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, 02118, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, 01655, USA
| | | | - Shariq Mohammed
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, 02118, USA.
- Rafik B. Hariri Institute for Computing and Computational Science and Engineering, Boston University, Boston, 02215, USA.
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Cohen SA, Nixon DM. Evaluating attributes of a collaborative model of service delivery for hereditary cancer risk assessment. J Genet Couns 2024; 33:291-300. [PMID: 37183788 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1722] [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: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this nonrandomized study was to compare several attributes of hereditary cancer risk assessment using a collaborative model of service delivery. Arm 1 included patients seen in-person by a board-certified genetic counselor (CGC), Arm 2 included high-complexity triaged patients from distant sites who received telegenetics with a CGC, and Arm 3 included low-complexity triaged patients from distant sites who had in-person risk assessment with a locally placed genetic counselor extender (GCE). A total of 152 patients consented and 98 had complete data available for analysis (35 in Arm 1, 33 in Arm 2, and 30 in Arm 3). The three groups were comparable in age, ethnicity, education, employment, and cancer status. There was no significant difference in median wait time or distance traveled to receive care across all three arms. However, if patients in Arms 2 and 3 had to access the CGC in-person, they would have had to travel significantly further (p < 0.0001). The time spent in a session was significantly longer in Arm 3 with a GCE than with a CGC in-person or by telegenetics (p < 0.01). There was no difference in the number of essential elements covered in the appointment, change in cancer worry, or appointment satisfaction across all three arms, although the sample size was small. Employing a collaborative model of service delivery with GCEs and telegenetics is feasible, satisfactory to patients and reduces the distance patients travel to access hereditary cancer genetic services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Cohen
- Ascension St. Vincent, Cancer Genetics Risk Assessment Program, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Dawn M Nixon
- Ascension St. Vincent, Cancer Genetics Risk Assessment Program, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Pandey M, Bramhankar M, Anand A. Exploring the financial burden due to additional mobility among cancer patients: A cross-sectional study based on National Sample Survey. J Cancer Policy 2024; 39:100469. [PMID: 38278353 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpo.2024.100469] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer imposes a substantial economic burden due to treatment costs, supportive care, and loss of productivity. Besides all the affecting factors, major concerns lead to significant financial burdens of cancer treatment, bringing unwanted huge unbearable direct and indirect treatment costs. The aim was to explore the nature of additional mobility/travel required for accessing health care for cancer patients and also to assess financial burden due to additional mobility/travel costs for cancer treatment. METHODS This study employed unit-level cross-sectional data from the 75th round (2017-18) of India's National Sample Survey (NSS). The primary analysis commenced with descriptive and bivariate analyses to explore mean health spending and out-of-pocket expenses. Subsequently, multivariable logistic regression models were utilized to estimate the associations between catastrophic health expenditure, distress financing, and the treatment location. RESULTS The findings highlight distinct healthcare utilization patterns: inpatient treatments predominantly occur within the same district (50.4 %), followed by a different district (38.8 %), and a smaller share in other states (10.8 %). Outpatients largely receive treatment in the same district (65.5 %), followed by a different district (26.8 %), and around 8 % percent in other states. Urban areas show higher inpatient visits within the same district (41.8 %) and different districts (33.5 %). Outpatients, particularly those seeking treatment in other states, experience higher total expenditures, notably with higher out-of-pocket expenses. Distress financing is more common among inpatients (20.6 %) and combined inpatient/outpatient cases (23.9 %), while outpatients exhibit a lower rate (6.8 %). CONCLUSION The findings collectively suggest the importance of developing local healthcare infrastructures to reduce the additional mobility of cancer patients. The policy should focus to train and deploy oncologists in non-urban areas can help bridge the gap in cancer care proficiency and reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohit Pandey
- International Institute for Population Sciences, India
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Svynarenko R, Huang G, Keim-Malpass J, Cozad MJ, Qualls KA, Stone Sharp W, Kirkland DA, Lindley LC. A Comparison of Hospice Care Utilization Between Rural and Urban Children in Appalachia: A Geographic Information Systems Analysis. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024; 41:288-294. [PMID: 37115718 PMCID: PMC10826679 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231173415] [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: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Long driving times from hospice providers to patients lead to poor quality of care, which may exacerbate in rural and highly isolated areas of Appalachia. This study aimed to investigate geographic patterns of pediatric hospice care across Appalachia. Using person-level Medicaid claims of 1,788 pediatric hospice enrollees who resided in the Appalachian Region between 2011 and 2013. A database of boundaries of Appalachian counties, postal addresses of hospices, and population-weighted county centroids of residences of hospice enrollees driving times from the nearest hospices were calculated. A choropleth map was created to visualize rural/urban differences in receiving hospice care. The average driving time from hospice to child residence was 28 minutes (SD = 26). The longest driving time was in Eastern Kentucky-126 minutes (SD = 32), and the shortest was in South Carolina-11 min (SD = 9.1). The most significant differences in driving times between rural and urban counties were found in Virginia 28 (SD = 7.5) and 5 minutes (SD = 0), respectively, Tennessee-43 (SD = 28) and 8 minutes (SD = 7), respectively; and West Virginia-49 (SD = 30) and 12 minutes (SD = 4), respectively. Many pediatric hospice patients reside in isolated counties with long driving times from the nearest hospices. State-level policies should be developed to reduce driving times from hospice providers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guoping Huang
- Spatial Sciences Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Melanie J Cozad
- Department of Health Services Research and Administration, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kerri A Qualls
- College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | | | - Deb A Kirkland
- College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Lisa C Lindley
- College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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11
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Williams CP, Liang MI, Rocque GB, Gidwani R, Caston NE, Pisu M. Cancer-Related Financial Hardship Screening as Part of Practice Transformation. Med Care 2023; 61:S116-S121. [PMID: 37963030 PMCID: PMC10635335 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on financial hardship, an "adverse event" in individuals with cancer, are needed to inform policy and supportive care interventions and reduce adverse economic outcomes. METHODS Lay navigator-led financial hardship screening was piloted among University of Alabama at Birmingham oncology patients initiating treatment in October 2020. Financial hardship screening, including reported financial distress and difficulty, was added to a standard-of-care treatment planning survey. Screening feasibility and completion and proportions of reported financial distress and difficulty were calculated overall and by patient race and rurality. The risk of financial distress by patient sociodemographics was estimated. RESULTS Patients who completed a treatment planning survey (N=2741) were 18% Black, Indigenous, or persons of color (BIPOC) and 16% rural dwelling. The majority of patients completed financial hardship screening (90%), surpassing the target feasibility completion rate of 75%. The screening revealed 34% of patients were experiencing financial distress, including 49% of BIPOC and 30% of White patients. Adjusted models revealed BIPOC patients had a 48% higher risk of financial distress compared with those who were White (risk ratio 1.48, 95% CI, 1.31-1.66). Large differences in reported financial difficulties were seen comparing patients who were BIPOC and White (utilities: 33% vs. 10%, upfront medical payments: 44% vs. 23%, transportation: 28% vs. 12%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The collection of patient-reported financial hardship data via routine clinical care was feasible and identified racial inequities at treatment initiation. Efforts to collect patient economic data should support the design, implementation, and evaluation of patient-centered interventions to improve equity and reduce the impact of financial hardship.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Margaret I. Liang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles
| | | | - Risha Gidwani
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Nicole E. Caston
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Maria Pisu
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
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12
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Turner M, Carriere R, Fielding S, Ramsay G, Samuel L, Maclaren A, Murchie P. The impact of travel time to cancer treatment centre on post-diagnosis care and mortality among cancer patients in Scotland. Health Place 2023; 84:103139. [PMID: 37979314 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2023.103139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Limited data exist on the effect of travelling time on post-diagnosis cancer care and mortality. We analysed the impact of travel time to cancer treatment centre on secondary care contact time and one-year mortality using a data-linkage study in Scotland with 17369 patients. Patients with longer travelling time and island-dwellers had increased incidence rate of secondary care cancer contact time. For outpatient oncology appointments, the incidence rate was decreased for island-dwellers. Longer travelling time was not associated with increased secondary care contact time for emergency cancer admissions or time to first emergency cancer admission. Living on an island increased mortality at one-year. Adjusting for cancer-specific secondary care contact time increased the hazard of death, and adjusting for oncology outpatient time decreased the hazard of death for island-dwellers. Those with longer travelling times experience the cancer treatment pathway differently with poorer outcomes. Cancer services may need to be better configured to suit differing needs of dispersed populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Turner
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK.
| | - Romi Carriere
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Campus of Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle University, Newcastle, NE4 5PL, UK
| | - Shona Fielding
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - George Ramsay
- Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, NHS Grampian, Foresterhill Health Campus, Foresterhill Road, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZN, UK
| | - Leslie Samuel
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZN, UK
| | - Andrew Maclaren
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Peter Murchie
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
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13
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Tachiki LML, Hippe DS, Williams Silva K, Hall ET, McCamy W, Fritzsche D, Perdue A, Majovski J, Pulliam T, Goldstein DA, Veatch J, Ho J, Nghiem PT, Thompson JA, Bhatia S. Extended duration of treatment using reduced-frequency dosing of anti-PD-1 therapy in patients with advanced melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:3839-3850. [PMID: 37733060 PMCID: PMC10576731 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03539-8] [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: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Optimal duration of treatment (DoT) with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in metastatic cancers remains unclear. Many patients, especially those without radiologic complete remission, develop progressive disease after ICI discontinuation. Extending DoT with ICI may potentially improve efficacy outcomes but presents major logistical and cost challenges with standard frequency dosing (SFD). Receptor occupancy data supports reduced frequency dosing (RFD) of anti-PD-1 antibodies, which may represent a more practical and economically viable option to extend DoT. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of patients with metastatic melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), who received ICI at RFD administered every 3 months, after initial disease control at SFD. We evaluated efficacy, safety, and cost-savings of the RFD approach in this cohort. RESULTS Between 2014 and 2021, 23 patients with advanced melanoma (N = 18) or MCC (N = 5) received anti-PD-1 therapy at RFD. Median DoT was 1.1 years at SFD and 1.2 years at RFD. The 3 year PFS after start of RFD was 73% in melanoma and 100% in MCC patients, which compare favorably to historical control rates. In the subset of 15 patients who received at least 2 years of therapy, total savings amounted to $1.1 million in drug costs and 384 h saved despite the extended DoT (median 3.4 years), as compared to the calculated cost of 2 years at SFD. CONCLUSIONS ICI administration at RFD can allow extension of treatment duration, while preserving efficacy and reducing logistical and financial burden. RFD approach deserves further exploration in prospective clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa May Ling Tachiki
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Daniel S Hippe
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Karly Williams Silva
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Evan Thomas Hall
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - William McCamy
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Dane Fritzsche
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Andrea Perdue
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Julia Majovski
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Thomas Pulliam
- Department of Medicine, Division of Dermatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Joshua Veatch
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Joel Ho
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Paul T Nghiem
- Department of Medicine, Division of Dermatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - John A Thompson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shailender Bhatia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, USA.
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14
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Gomez SL, Chirikova E, McGuire V, Collin LJ, Dempsey L, Inamdar PP, Lawson-Michod K, Peters ES, Kushi LH, Kavecansky J, Shariff-Marco S, Peres LC, Terry P, Bandera EV, Schildkraut JM, Doherty JA, Lawson A. Role of neighborhood context in ovarian cancer survival disparities: current research and future directions. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:366-376.e8. [PMID: 37116824 PMCID: PMC10538437 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer-associated mortality among US women with survival disparities seen across race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, even after accounting for histology, stage, treatment, and other clinical factors. Neighborhood context can play an important role in ovarian cancer survival, and, to the extent to which minority racial and ethnic groups and populations of lower socioeconomic status are more likely to be segregated into neighborhoods with lower quality social, built, and physical environment, these contextual factors may be a critical component of ovarian cancer survival disparities. Understanding factors associated with ovarian cancer outcome disparities will allow clinicians to identify patients at risk for worse outcomes and point to measures, such as social support programs or transportation aid, that can help to ameliorate such disparities. However, research on the impact of neighborhood contextual factors in ovarian cancer survival and in disparities in ovarian cancer survival is limited. This commentary focuses on the following neighborhood contextual domains: structural and institutional context, social context, physical context represented by environmental exposures, built environment, rurality, and healthcare access. The research conducted to date is presented and clinical implications and recommendations for future interventions and studies to address disparities in ovarian cancer outcomes are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scarlett L Gomez
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.
| | - Ekaterina Chirikova
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Valerie McGuire
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Lindsay J Collin
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Lauren Dempsey
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Pushkar P Inamdar
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Katherine Lawson-Michod
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Edward S Peters
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Public Health, Omaha, NE
| | - Lawrence H Kushi
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Juraj Kavecansky
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Antioch, CA
| | - Salma Shariff-Marco
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Lauren C Peres
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Paul Terry
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
| | - Elisa V Bandera
- Cancer Epidemiology and Health Outcomes, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Joellen M Schildkraut
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Jennifer A Doherty
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Andrew Lawson
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC; Usher Institute, School of Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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15
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Yeager KA, Zahnd WE, Eberth JM, Vanderpool RC, Rohweder C, Teal R, Vu M, Stradtman L, Frost EL, Trapl E, Gonzalez SK, Vu T, Ko LK, Cole A, Farris PE, Shannon J, Askelson N, Seegmiller L, White A, Edward J, Davis M, Petermann V, Wheeler SB. Financial navigation: Staff perspectives on patients' financial burden of cancer care. J Cancer Surviv 2023; 17:1461-1470. [PMID: 35080699 PMCID: PMC9314461 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-022-01175-2] [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: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe perceptions of financial navigation staff concerning patients' cancer-related financial burden. METHODS This qualitative descriptive study used a semi-structured interview guide to examine perceptions of financial navigation staff concerning patients' cancer-related financial burden. Staff who provided financial navigation support services to cancer patients were interviewed from different types of cancer programs across seven states representing rural, micropolitan, and urban settings. Interviews lasted approximately one hour, were audio recorded, and transcribed. Transcripts were double coded for thematic analysis. RESULTS Thirty-five staff from 29 cancer centers were interviewed. The first theme involved communication issues related to patient and financial navigation staff expectations, timing and the sensitive nature of financial discussions. The second theme involved the multi-faceted impact of financial burden on patients, including stress, difficulty adhering to treatments, and challenges meeting basic, non-medical needs. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: Cancer-related financial burden has a profound impact on cancer survivors' health and non-health outcomes. Discussions regarding cancer-related costs between cancer survivors and healthcare team members could help to normalize conversations and mitigate the multi-faceted determinants and effects of cancer-related financial burden. As treatment may span months and years and unexpected costs arise, having this discussion regularly and systematically is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Whitney E Zahnd
- University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | | | | | | | - Randall Teal
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Maihan Vu
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Erika Trapl
- Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Thuy Vu
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Linda K Ko
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Arica White
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Melinda Davis
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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16
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Nguyen CA, Beaulieu ND, Wright AA, Cutler DM, Keating NL, Landrum MB. Organization of Cancer Specialists in US Physician Practices and Health Systems. J Clin Oncol 2023; 41:4226-4235. [PMID: 37379501 PMCID: PMC10852402 DOI: 10.1200/jco.23.00626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the supply of cancer specialists, the organization of cancer care within versus outside of health systems, and the distance to multispecialty cancer centers. METHODS Using the 2018 Health Systems and Provider Database from the National Bureau of Economic Research and 2018 Medicare data, we identified 46,341 unique physicians providing cancer care. We stratified physicians by discipline (adult/pediatric medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical/gynecologic oncologists, other surgeons performing cancer surgeries, or palliative care physicians), system type (National Cancer Institute [NCI] Cancer Center system, non-NCI academic system, nonacademic system, or nonsystem/independent practice), practice size, and composition (single disciplinary oncology, multidisciplinary oncology, or multispecialty). We computed the density of cancer specialists by county and calculated distances to the nearest NCI Cancer Center. RESULTS More than half of all cancer specialists (57.8%) practiced in health systems, but 55.0% of cancer-related visits occurred in independent practices. Most system-based physicians were in large practices with more than 100 physicians, while those in independent practices were in smaller practices. Practices in NCI Cancer Center systems (95.2%), non-NCI academic systems (95.0%), and nonacademic systems (94.3%) were primarily multispecialty, while fewer independent practices (44.8%) were. Cancer specialist density was sparse in many rural areas, where the median travel distance to an NCI Cancer Center was 98.7 miles. Distances to NCI Cancer Centers were shorter for individuals living in high-income areas than in low-income areas, even for individuals in suburban and urban areas. CONCLUSION Although many cancer specialists practiced in multispecialty health systems, many also worked in smaller-sized independent practices where most patients were treated. Access to cancer specialists and cancer centers was limited in many areas, particularly in rural and low-income areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina A. Nguyen
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Nancy D. Beaulieu
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Alexi A. Wright
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - David M. Cutler
- Department of Economics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
- National Bureau of Economic Research, Cambridge, MA
| | - Nancy L. Keating
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Division of General Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Mary Beth Landrum
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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17
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Tenforde AS, Alexander JJ, Alexander M, Annaswamy TM, Carr CJ, Chang P, Díaz M, Iaccarino MA, Lewis SB, Millett C, Pandit S, Ramirez CP, Rinaldi R, Roop M, Slocum CS, Tekmyster G, Venesy D, Verduzco-Gutierrez M, Zorowitz RD, Rowland TR. Telehealth in PM&R: Past, present, and future in clinical practice and opportunities for translational research. PM R 2023; 15:1156-1174. [PMID: 37354209 DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.13029] [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: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Telehealth refers to the use of telecommunication devices and other forms of technology to provide services outside of the traditional in-person health care delivery system. Growth in the use of telehealth creates new challenges and opportunities for implementation in clinical practice. The American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) assembled an expert group to develop a white paper to examine telehealth innovation in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R). The resultant white paper summarizes how telehealth is best used in the field of PM&R while highlighting current knowledge deficits and technological limitations. The report identifies new and transformative opportunities for PM&R to advance translational research related to telehealth and enhance patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam S Tenforde
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joshua J Alexander
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Marcalee Alexander
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Thiru M Annaswamy
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Conley J Carr
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Philip Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Mary A Iaccarino
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stephen B Lewis
- Physiatry-Pharmacy Collaborative, NJ Institute for Successful Aging, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
| | - Carolyn Millett
- American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rosemont, Illinois, USA
| | | | | | - Robert Rinaldi
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Megan Roop
- American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rosemont, Illinois, USA
| | - Chloe S Slocum
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gene Tekmyster
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Keck Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Monica Verduzco-Gutierrez
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Richard D Zorowitz
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, MedStar National Rehabilitation Network, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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18
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Zhao J, Yabroff KR. High out‑of‑pocket spending and financial hardship at the end of life among cancer survivors and their families. Isr J Health Policy Res 2023; 12:24. [PMID: 37415261 DOI: 10.1186/s13584-023-00572-x] [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: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most expensive medical conditions to treat worldwide, affecting national and local spending, as well as household budgets for patients and their families. In this commentary about a recent paper from Tur‑Sinai et al., we discuss the high out-of-pocket spending and medical and non-medical financial hardship faced by cancer patients and their families at the end-of-life in Israel. We provide recent information about the costs of health care in Israel and other high-income countries with (i.e., Canada, Australia, Japan, and Italy) and without universal health insurance coverage (i.e., United States, a country with high healthcare costs and uninsurance rate), and highlight the role of improving health insurance coverage and benefit design in reducing financial hardship among cancer patients and their families. Recognizing that financial hardship at the end of life affects both patients and their families, developing comprehensive programs and policies in Israel as well as in other countries is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxuan Zhao
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, 3380 Chastain Meadows Pkwy NW Suite 200, Kennesaw, GA, 30144, USA.
| | - K Robin Yabroff
- Surveillance and Health Equity Science, American Cancer Society, 3380 Chastain Meadows Pkwy NW Suite 200, Kennesaw, GA, 30144, USA
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19
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Wu VS, Benedict C, Friedman DN, Watson SE, Anglade E, Zeitler MS, Chino F, Thom B. Do discussions of financial burdens decrease long-term financial toxicity in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors? Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:434. [PMID: 37395811 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07822-3] [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] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to evaluate the associations between patient-provider cost discussions with patient-reported out-of-pocket (OOP) spending and long-term financial toxicity (FT) among adolescent and young adult (AYA; 15-39 years old) cancer survivors. METHODS Using a cross-sectional survey, we assessed the themes and quality of patient discussions with providers about financial needs and general survivorship preparation, quantified patients' levels of FT, and evaluated patient-reported OOP spending. We determined the association between cancer treatment cost discussion and FT using multivariable analysis. In a subset of survivors (n = 18), we conducted qualitative interviews and used thematic analysis to characterize responses. RESULTS Two hundred forty-seven AYA survivors completed the survey at a mean of 7 years post treatment and with a median COST score of 13. 70% of AYA survivors did not recall having any cost discussion about their cancer treatment with a provider. Having any cost discussion with a provider was associated with decreased FT (β = 3.00; p = 0.02) but not associated with reduced OOP spending (χ2 = 3.77; p = 0.44). In a second adjusted model, with OOP spending included as a covariate, OOP spending was a significant predictor of FT (β = - 1.40; p = 0.002). Key qualitative themes included survivors' frustration about the lack of communication related to financial issues throughout treatment and in survivorship, feeling unprepared, and reluctance to seek help. CONCLUSION AYA patients are not fully informed about the costs of cancer care and FT; the dearth of cost discussions between patients and providers may represent a missed opportunity to reduce costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria S Wu
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Catherine Benedict
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford Cancer Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Danielle N Friedman
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Fumiko Chino
- Affordability Working Group, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bridgette Thom
- Affordability Working Group, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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20
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Morse RT, Mouw TJ, Moreno M, Erwin JT, Cao Y, DiPasco P, Al-Kasspooles M, Hoover A. Neoadjuvant Radiotherapy Facility Type Affects Anastomotic Complications After Esophagectomy. J Gastrointest Surg 2023; 27:1313-1320. [PMID: 36973500 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-023-05660-6] [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: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esophagectomy is a complex oncologic surgery that results in lower perioperative morbidity and mortality when performed in high-volume hospitals by experienced surgeons; however, limited data exists evaluating the importance of neoadjuvant radiotherapy delivery at high- versus low-volume centers. We sought to compare postoperative toxicity among patients treated with preoperative radiotherapy delivered at an academic medical center (AMC) versus community medical centers (CMC). METHODS Consecutive patients undergoing esophagectomy for locally advanced esophageal or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer at an academic medical center between 2008 and 2018 were reviewed. Associations between patient factors and treatment-related toxicities were calculated in univariate (UVA) and multivariable analyses (MVA). RESULTS One hundred forty-seven consecutive patients were identified: 89 CMC and 58 AMC. Median follow-up was 30 months (0.33-124 months). Most patients were male (86%) with adenocarcinoma (90%) located in the distal esophagus or GEJ (95%). Median radiation dose was 50.4 Gy between groups. Radiotherapy at CMCs resulted in higher rates of re-operation after esophagectomy (18% vs 7%, p = 0.055) and increased rates of anastomotic leak (38% vs 17%, p < 0.01). On MVA, radiation at a CMC remained predictive of anastomotic leak (OR 6.13, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Esophageal cancer patients receiving preoperative radiotherapy had higher rates of anastomotic leaks when radiotherapy was completed at a community medical center versus academic medical center. Explanations for these differences are uncertain but further exploratory analyses regarding dosimetry and radiation field size are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan T Morse
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, 101 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA.
| | - Tyler J Mouw
- Department of Surgery, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Matthew Moreno
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, USA
| | - Jace T Erwin
- University of Kansas School of Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, USA
| | - Ying Cao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, USA
| | - Peter DiPasco
- Department of Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, USA
| | - Mazin Al-Kasspooles
- Department of Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, USA
| | - Andrew Hoover
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, USA
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21
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Mahajan A, Tirakotai W, Masayaanon P. The hidden costs of universal health coverage: solutions from the fight against catastrophic healthcare expenditure in Thailand. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:bmjgh-2023-011932. [PMID: 37277197 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-011932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Arnav Mahajan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurological Institute of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wuttipong Tirakotai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurological Institute of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand
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22
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Lee K, Shamunee J, Lindenfeld L, Ross E, Hageman L, Sedrak MS, Wong FL, Nakamura R, Forman SJ, Bhatia S, Armenian SH. Feasibility of implementing a supervised telehealth exercise intervention in frail survivors of hematopoietic cell transplantation: a pilot randomized trial. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:390. [PMID: 37127595 PMCID: PMC10150529 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-10884-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) are at high risk of chronic health complications, including frailty and physical dysfunction. Conventional exercise programs have been shown to improve frailty in other cancer populations, but these have largely been based out of rehabilitation facilities that may act as geographic and logistical barriers. There is a paucity of information on the feasibility of implementing telehealth exercise interventions in long-term HCT survivors. METHODS We conducted a pilot randomized trial to assess the feasibility of an 8-week telehealth exercise intervention in 20 pre-frail or frail HCT survivors. Participants were randomized to either a telehealth exercise (N = 10) or delayed control (N = 10). We administered a remote physical function assessment at baseline, followed by an 8-week telehealth exercise intervention (30-60 min/session, 3 sessions/week), and post-intervention. The primary endpoint was feasibility as determined by 1) > 70% of participants completing all remote physical functional assessments, and 2) > 70% of participants in the exercise group completing > 70% (17/24) of the prescribed exercise sessions. Exploratory outcomes included changes in gait speed, handgrip strength, and short physical performance battery. RESULTS The mean [standard deviation] age at study enrollment was 64.7 [9.1] years old. Twelve had undergone allogenic and 8 had undergone autologous HCT at an average of 17 years from study enrollment. Both feasibility criteria were achieved. Nineteen patients (95%) completed all remote study outcome assessments at baseline and post-intervention, and nine participants in the exercise group completed > 70% of prescribed exercise sessions. Overall, no significant group x time interaction was observed on handgrip strength, fatigue, body mass index, and short physical performance battery test (P < 0.05). However, there were significant within-group improvements in four-meter gait speed (+ 13.9%; P = 0.004) and 5-minute gait speed (+ 25.4%; P = 0.04) in the exercise group whereas non-significant changes in four-meter gait speed (-3.8%) and 5-minute gait speed (-5.8%) were observed after 8 weeks. CONCLUSION Implementing an 8-week telehealth exercise intervention for long-term HCT survivors was feasible. Our findings set the stage for innovative delivery of supervised exercise intervention that reduces the burden of frailty in HCT survivors as well as other at-risk cancer survivors. TRIAL REGISTRATION The protocol and informed consent were approved by the institutional IRB (IRB#20731) and registered (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04968119; date of registration: 20/07/2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyuwan Lee
- Division of Outcomes Research, Department of Population Sciences, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
| | - Justin Shamunee
- Division of Outcomes Research, Department of Population Sciences, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Lanie Lindenfeld
- Division of Outcomes Research, Department of Population Sciences, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Elizabeth Ross
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, United States
| | - Lindsey Hageman
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, United States
| | - Mina S Sedrak
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - F Lennie Wong
- Division of Outcomes Research, Department of Population Sciences, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Ryotaro Nakamura
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Stephen J Forman
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Smita Bhatia
- Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, United States
| | - Saro H Armenian
- Division of Outcomes Research, Department of Population Sciences, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
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23
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Mallem K, Xia T, Berkenstock MK. A Geodemographic Analysis of Travel Time to Uveitis Specialists in the United States. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023:1-5. [PMID: 37094090 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2023.2202249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Travel time to a patient's medical provider represents a significant component of access to care. We examined travel time to the nearest uveitis specialist for the American population and characterize its impact on access to uveitis care. DESIGN Observational studies using the American Community Survey and American Census Bureau population estimates. METHODS Addresses of fellowship-trained uveitis specialists were collected from the American Uveitis Society (AUS) and the Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation (OIUF) websites and geocoded using ArcGIS Pro 2.9. Service areas were defined as all locations within a 60-min drive time from each specialist's location. Demographic and population data for total population, racial groups, household poverty levels, population in dependent groups (younger than 18, older than 65), and health insurance status were overlaid. Data were aggregated for census tracts within and outside service areas and compared using chi-square analysis. Main Outcome Measures: Differences in population demographics for people within and outside service area coverage. RESULTS 223 uveitis specialist addresses were geocoded into ArcGIS. Of specialist locations, 94% were found in urban areas. Of the total United States population, 63.3% were found to be within service areas. Of these, 55.9% were White and 14.7% were African American, whereas 70% of the people outside service areas were White and 10.1% were African American (p < 0.0001) (Table 1). Only 8.3% of the people within service area coverage had no health insurance compared with 9.5% outside service areas (p < 0.0001). Within coverage areas, 12.7% of the households had a total income below the federal poverty level versus 15.1% of the households outside service area coverage (p < 0.0001). Within service area coverage, 37.4% of the people were in a dependent age group compared with 40.4.% outside service area coverage (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Our analysis shows a significant travel burden to the nearest uveitis specialist for a large proportion of Americans. More providers are needed in rural areas, as patients there are more likely to live under the poverty line, be uninsured, or belong to a dependent age group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Mallem
- The Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, Division of Ocular Immunology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Terry Xia
- The Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Meghan K Berkenstock
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, Division of Ocular Immunology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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24
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Ning FL, Gu WJ, Zhao ZM, Du WY, Sun M, Cao SY, Zeng YJ, Abe M, Zhang CD. Association between hospital surgical case volume and postoperative mortality in patients undergoing gastrectomy for gastric cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Surg 2023; 109:936-945. [PMID: 36917144 PMCID: PMC10389614 DOI: 10.1097/js9.0000000000000269] [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: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postoperative mortality is an important indicator for evaluating surgical safety. Postoperative mortality is influenced by hospital volume; however, this association is not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the volume-outcome association between the hospital surgical case volume for gastrectomies per year (hospital volume) and the risk of postoperative mortality in patients undergoing a gastrectomy for gastric cancer. METHODS Studies assessing the association between hospital volume and the postoperative mortality in patients who underwent gastrectomy for gastric cancer were searched for eligibility. Odds ratios were pooled for the highest versus lowest categories of hospital volume using a random-effects model. The volume-outcome association between hospital volume and the risk of postoperative mortality was analyzed. The study protocol was registered with Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). RESULTS Thirty studies including 586 993 participants were included. The risk of postgastrectomy mortality in patients with gastric cancer was 35% lower in hospitals with higher surgical case volumes than in their lower-volume counterparts (odds ratio: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.56-0.76; P <0.001). This relationship was consistent and robust in most subgroup analyses. Volume-outcome analysis found that the postgastrectomy mortality rate remained stable or was reduced after the hospital volume reached a plateau of 100 gastrectomy cases per year. CONCLUSIONS The current findings suggest that a higher-volume hospital can reduce the risk of postgastrectomy mortality in patients with gastric cancer, and that greater than or equal to 100 gastrectomies for gastric cancer per year may be defined as a high hospital surgical case volume.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei-Long Ning
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Wan-Jie Gu
- Departments of Intensive Care Unit
- Clinical Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou
| | - Zhe-Ming Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang
| | - Wan-Ying Du
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Min Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan
| | - Shi-Yi Cao
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yong-Ji Zeng
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Masanobu Abe
- Division for Health Service Promotion, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chun-Dong Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang
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25
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Pywell CM, Caston NE, Gilbert AD, Williams CP, Ye S, Azuero A, Rocque GB. Associations Between Patient-Perceived Cancer Curability and Advance Directive Completion. J Palliat Med 2023. [PMID: 36946878 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite Advance Care Planning recommendations for patients with cancer, many lack Advance Directives (ADs). AD disparities persist among Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC) patients. Based on a hypothesized correlation, we examined the association between patient-perceived cancer incurability and AD completion. Methods: This cross-sectional study obtained self-reported AD completion and incurability perception from routine care surveys. AD completion by incurability perception was estimated using modified Poisson regression. Subgroup analyses examined patients who were BIPOC, White, and had solid organ malignancies. Results: Our sample (N = 1209) was predominantly female (70%), White (73%) with early-stage disease (60%), and solid organ malignancies (82%). AD completion was 42%, and 40% of patients reported their cancer incurable. Patient-perceived incurability was not associated with increased AD completion (likelihood ratio 0.94, 95% confidence interval 0.78-1.13) in overall or subgroup analyses. Conclusion: Patient-perceived cancer incurability was not associated with AD completion, even accounting for race/ethnicity and cancer type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron M Pywell
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Nicole E Caston
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Aidan D Gilbert
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Courtney P Williams
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Star Ye
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Andres Azuero
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Gabrielle B Rocque
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Rush KL, Singh S, Seaton CL, Burton L, Li E, Jones C, Davis JC, Hasan K, Kern B, Janke R. Telehealth Use for Enhancing the Health of Rural Older Adults: A Systematic Mixed Studies Review. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2022; 62:e564-e577. [PMID: 34661675 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnab141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Telehealth holds potential for inclusive and cost-saving health care; however, a better understanding of the use and acceptance of telehealth for health promotion among rural older adults is needed. This systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence for telehealth use among rural-living older adults and to explore cost-effectiveness for health systems and patients. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS This systematic review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Study designs reporting health promotion telehealth interventions with rural-living adults aged 55 and older were eligible for review. Following screening and inclusion, articles were quality-rated and ranked by level of evidence. Data extraction was guided by the Technology Acceptance Model and organized into outcomes related to ease of use, usefulness, intention to use, and usage behavior along with cost-effectiveness. RESULTS Of 2,247 articles screened, 42 were included. Positive findings for the usefulness of telehealth for promoting rural older adults' health were reported in 37 studies. Evidence for ease of use and usage behavior was mixed. Five studies examined intention to continue to use telehealth and in 4 of these, patients preferred telehealth. Telehealth was cost-effective for health care delivery (as a process) compared to face to face. However, findings were mixed for cost-effectiveness with both reports of savings (e.g., reduced travel) and increased costs (e.g., insurance). DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Telehealth was useful for promoting health among rural-living older adults. Technological supports are needed to improve telehealth ease of use and adherence. Cost-effectiveness of telehealth needs more study, particularly targeting older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy L Rush
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah Singh
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Cherisse L Seaton
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lindsay Burton
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Eric Li
- Faculty of Management, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Charlotte Jones
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jennifer C Davis
- Faculty of Management, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Khalad Hasan
- Department of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Brodie Kern
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Robert Janke
- Research and Administration, Library Administration, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
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Williams CP, Davidoff A, Halpern MT, Mollica M, Castro K, Allaire B, de Moor JS. Cost-Related Medication Nonadherence and Patient Cost Responsibility for Rural and Urban Cancer Survivors. JCO Oncol Pract 2022; 18:e1234-e1246. [PMID: 35947881 PMCID: PMC9377697 DOI: 10.1200/op.21.00875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The relationship between out-of-pocket spending and cost-related medication nonadherence among older rural- and urban-dwelling cancer survivors is not well understood. METHODS This retrospective cohort study used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program, Medicare claims, and the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems survey linked data resource linked data (2007-2015) to investigate the relationship between cancer survivors' cost responsibility in the year before and after report of delaying or not filling a prescription medication because of cost in the past 6 months (cost-related medication nonadherence). Secondary exposures and outcomes included Medicare spending and utilization. Generalized linear models assessed bidirectional relationships between cost-related medication nonadherence, spending, and utilization. Effects of residence were assessed via interaction terms. RESULTS Of 6,591 older cancer survivors, 13% reported cost-related medication nonadherence. Survivors were a median 8 years (interquartile range, 4.5-12.5 years) from their cancer diagnosis, 15% were dually Medicare/Medicaid-eligible, and prostate (40%) and breast (32%) cancer survivors were most prevalent. With every $500 USD increase in patient cost responsibility, risk of cost-related medication nonadherence increased by 3% (risk ratio, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.04). After report of cost-related medication nonadherence, patient cost responsibility was 22% higher (95% CI, 1.11 to 1.32) compared with those not reporting nonadherence, amounting to $523 USD (95% CI, $430 USD to $630 USD). Medicare spending and utilization were also higher before and after report of cost-related nonadherence versus none. For survivors residing in rural (18%) and urban (82%) areas, residence did not modify adherence or cost outcomes. CONCLUSION A bidirectional relationship exists between patient cost responsibility and cost-related medication nonadherence. Interventions reducing urban- and rural-dwelling survivor health care costs and cost-related adherence barriers are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney P. Williams
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Amy Davidoff
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Michael T. Halpern
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Michelle Mollica
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Kathleen Castro
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | | | - Janet S. de Moor
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
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Lichter KE, Anderson J, Sim AJ, Baniel CC, Thiel CL, Chuter R, Collins A, Carollo E, Berg CD, Coleman CN, Abdel-Wahab M, Grover S, Singer L, Mohamad O. Transitioning to Environmentally Sustainable, Climate-Smart Radiation Oncology Care. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2022; 113:915-924. [PMID: 35841919 PMCID: PMC10024638 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katie E Lichter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, California.
| | - Justin Anderson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Austin J Sim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida; Department of Radiation Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Claire C Baniel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Cassandra L Thiel
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Robert Chuter
- Christie Medical Physics and Engineering, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom; Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Heath, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Collins
- Health Care Without Harm, Reston, Virginia; Department of Emergency Medicine, MetroWest Medical Center, Framingham, Massachusetts
| | - Erin Carollo
- Loyola University Chicago-Stritch School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - C Norman Coleman
- Radiation Research Program, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - May Abdel-Wahab
- Division of Human Health, Radiation Oncology, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Surbhi Grover
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Lisa Singer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Osama Mohamad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, California; Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, California
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29
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de Moor JS, Williams CP, Blinder VS. Cancer-Related Care Costs and Employment Disruption: Recommendations to Reduce Patient Economic Burden as Part of Cancer Care Delivery. J Natl Cancer Inst Monogr 2022; 2022:79-84. [PMID: 35788373 DOI: 10.1093/jncimonographs/lgac006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer survivors are frequently unprepared to manage the out-of-pocket (OOP) costs associated with undergoing cancer treatment and the potential for employment disruption. This commentary outlines a set of research recommendations stemming from the National Cancer Institute's Future of Health Economics Research Conference to better understand and reduce patient economic burden as part of cancer care delivery. Currently, there are a lack of detailed metrics and measures of survivors' OOP costs and employment disruption, and data on these costs are rarely available at the point of care to guide patient-centered treatment and survivorship care planning. Future research should improve the collection of data about survivors' OOP costs for medical care, other cancer-related expenses, and experiences of employment disruption. Methods such as microcosting and the prospective collection of patient-reported outcomes in cancer care are needed to understand the true sum of cancer-related costs taken on by survivors and caregivers. Better metrics and measures of survivors' costs must be coupled with interventions to incorporate that information into cancer care delivery and inform meaningful communication about OOP costs and employment disruption that is tailored to different clinical situations. Informing survivors about the anticipated costs of their cancer care supports informed decision making and proactive planning to mitigate financial hardship. Additionally, system-level infrastructure should be developed and tested to facilitate screening to identify survivors at risk for financial hardship, improve communication about OOP costs and employment disruption between survivors and their health-care providers, and support the delivery of appropriate financial navigation services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet S de Moor
- Healthcare Delivery Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Courtney P Williams
- Healthcare Delivery Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Portero de la Cruz S, Cebrino J. Rural-Urban Differences in Common Mental Disorders, Functional Limitation and Social Support among Adults with Cancer: A Population-Based Study in Spain. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11102742. [PMID: 35628871 PMCID: PMC9146103 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11102742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The psychological, physical and social well-being components may differ for cancer patients living in urban vs. rural zones. This study aimed to examine the common mental disorders (CMDs), functional limitation (FL) and perceived social support (PSS) of rural and urban Spanish cancer patients from 2006 to 2017, to compare sociodemographic variables, health-related determinants and use of healthcare resources and to identify which sociodemographic and health-related factors were related to CMDs, FL and PSS. We performed a cross-sectional study among cancer patients using data from the Spanish National Health Surveys (2006, 2011 and 2017). A total of 698 of the subjects resided in rural areas and 1824 in urban areas. Binary logistic and multiple linear regressions were performed to determine the factors related to CMDs, FL and PSS. Rural residents visited their general practitioners more frequently than the city dwellers (61.03% vs. 56.63%, p = 0.04). A decreased prevalence of CMDs was observed among urban individuals over time (2006: 39.13%, 2011: 38.87%, 2017: 34.30%; p for trend = 0.04). Among rural residents, FL was associated with age, educational level and self-perceived health status, while among city dwellers, PSS was linked to marital status, nationality, having chronic conditions and self-perceived health status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Portero de la Cruz
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal, S/N, 14071 Córdoba, Spain;
- Research Group GC12 Clinical and Epidemiological Research in Primary Care, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Jesús Cebrino
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Seville, Avda. Doctor Fedriani, S/N, 41009 Seville, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-954-551-771
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Frosch ZAK. Where Have We Been With Rural-Urban Cancer Care Disparities and Where Are We Headed? JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2212255. [PMID: 35587351 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.12255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary A K Frosch
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Lim SA, Hao SB, Boyd BA, Mitsakos A, Irish W, Burke AM, Parikh AA, Snyder RA. Opportunity Costs of Surgical Resection and Perioperative Chemotherapy for Locoregional Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma. JCO Oncol Pract 2022; 18:302-309. [PMID: 34709961 DOI: 10.1200/op.21.00311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Given the perioperative morbidity and intensity of multimodality treatment, patients with resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) spend a substantial amount of time in clinical care. The primary aim was to determine total time spent in multimodality care for patients with locoregional PDAC. METHODS A cohort study of all patients who underwent curative-intent resection for PDAC at a single-institution, tertiary care center was performed (2015-2019). Exact times for all relevant visits were abstracted from the primary medical record, and travel time was calculated. Care time was divided into preoperative, surgical, radiation, and systemic therapy phases of care. Primary outcome measures were the percentage of total survival time (TST) and percentage of overall survival (OS) days spent in receipt of care. RESULTS One hundred seven patients were included. Patients spent a median of 5.0% (interquartile range [IQR] 2.4%-10.1%) of TST and 11.0% (IQR, 5.7%-20.4%) of OS days in receipt of clinical care. Preoperative, surgical, radiation, and systemic therapy phases of care comprised a median of 0.9% (IQR, 0.4%-2.2%), 3.0% (IQR, 1.9%-6.8%), 4.4% (IQR, 3.6%-6.3%), and 10.0% (IQR, 6.2%-14.1%) of OS days. The median per-visit travel time was 60 minutes (IQR, 32-120), and the median cumulative travel time was 22.0 hours (IQR, 12.0-51.5). 12.1% (n = 13) and 7.8% (n = 4) of patients spent > 10% of TST in receipt of surgical and systemic therapy care, respectively. CONCLUSION Patients with locoregional pancreatic cancer spend a considerable percentage of their survival time in receipt of oncologic care. Further research to determine predictors of increased time burden is warranted to better inform shared decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szu-Aun Lim
- Department of Surgery, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
| | - Scarlett B Hao
- Department of Surgery, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
| | - Breana A Boyd
- Department of Surgery, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
| | - Anastasios Mitsakos
- Department of Surgery, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
| | - William Irish
- Department of Public Health, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
| | - Aidan M Burke
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
| | - Alexander A Parikh
- Department of Surgery, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
| | - Rebecca A Snyder
- Department of Surgery, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
- Department of Public Health, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
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Baehr A, Fought AJ, Hsia RY, Wiler JL, Ginde AA. The association between area deprivation index and emergency department discharge rates and revisits. Acad Emerg Med 2022; 29:902-904. [PMID: 35304928 DOI: 10.1111/acem.14486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Avi Baehr
- Department of Emergency Medicine University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine Denver Health Medical Center Denver Colorado USA
| | - Angela J. Fought
- Center for Innovative Design & Analysis, Department of Biostatistics & Informatics Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Aurora Colorado USA
| | - Renee Y. Hsia
- Department of Emergency Medicine University of California San Francisco San Francisco California USA
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies University of California San Francisco San Francisco California USA
| | - Jennifer L. Wiler
- Department of Emergency Medicine University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
| | - Adit A. Ginde
- Department of Emergency Medicine University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
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Asmare Atalell K, Asmare Techane M, Adugna Wubneh C, Tezera Assimamaw N, Mulualem Belay G, Tarik Tamir T, Bilal Muhye A, Guadie Kassie D, Wondim A, Terefe B, Tigabu Tarekegn B, Seid Ali M, Fentie B, Tefera Gonete A, Tekeba B, Fisiha Kassa S, Kassahun Desta B, Tilahun Dessie M, Getaneh Alemu T. Spatiotemporal distributions of immunization coverage in Ethiopia from 2000 to 2019. Vaccine 2022; 40:1413-1420. [PMID: 35125222 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.01.053] [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: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaccination is the most important mechanism to improve childhood survival. However, immunization coverage is very low and unevenly distributed throughout the country. Therefore, this study was aimed to investigate the spatiotemporal distribution of immunization coverage in Ethiopia. METHOD Immunization coverage data and geospatial covariates data were obtained from EDHS 2000 to 2019 and different publicly available sources. A Bayesian geostatistic model was used to estimate the national immunization coverage at a pixel level and to identify factors associated with the spatial clustering of immunization coverages. RESULT The overall immunization coverage in Ethiopia was 38.7%, 36.55%, 51.8%, 67.1% and 66.9% for 2000, 2005, 2011, 2016 and 2019 respectively. Spatial clustering of low immunization coverage was observed in Eastern, Southern, Southwestern, Southeastern and Northeastern parts of Ethiopia in EDHSs. The altitude of the area was positively associated with immunization coverage in 2000, 2005 and 2019 EDHS. The population density was positively associated with immunization coverage in 2000, 2005, 2011 and 2016. Precipitation is also positively associated with immunization coverage in 2016. Moreover, mean annual temperature was positively associated with immunization coverage in 2000, 2005 and 2019 EDHSs. Travel time to the nearest city is negatively associated with immunization coverage in 2000, 2005, 2011 and 2016. Likewise, distance to health facilities was negatively associated with immunization coverage in all the five EDHSs. CONCLUSION This study found that immunization coverage in Ethiopia substantially varied across the subnational and local levels. Spatial clustering of low immunization coverage was observed in Southern, Southeastern, Southwestern, Northeastern, and Eastern parts of the country. Altitude, population density, precipitation, temperature, travel time to the nearest city in minutes, and distance to the health facilities were factors that affect the spatial clustering of immunizations coverage. These findings can guide policymakers in Ethiopia to design geographically targeted interventions to increase programs to achieve maximum immunization coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendalem Asmare Atalell
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Masresha Asmare Techane
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Chalachew Adugna Wubneh
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Nega Tezera Assimamaw
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Getaneh Mulualem Belay
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Tarik Tamir
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Addis Bilal Muhye
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Destaye Guadie Kassie
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Amare Wondim
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Bewuketu Terefe
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Bethelihem Tigabu Tarekegn
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mohammed Seid Ali
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Beletech Fentie
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Almaz Tefera Gonete
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Berhan Tekeba
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Selam Fisiha Kassa
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Bogale Kassahun Desta
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Melkamu Tilahun Dessie
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tewodros Getaneh Alemu
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Desai AD, Shah VP, Tseng CC, Povolotskiy R, Wackym PA, Ying YLM. Impact of Social Determinants of Health on Stereotactic Radiotherapy for Vestibular Schwannoma. Laryngoscope 2022; 132:2232-2240. [PMID: 35076095 DOI: 10.1002/lary.30016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS Linear accelerator (LINAC) and Gamma Knife (GK) are common stereotactic radiation therapies for treating vestibular schwannoma (VS). There is currently limited literature examining specific demographic and socioeconomic factors, which influence the type of stereotactic radiation therapy a patient with VS receives. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective database review. METHODS The National Cancer Database was queried for cases of VS between 2004 and 2016. Patient demographic characteristics were compared using chi-squared and t-tests between GK and LINAC treated groups. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to assess predictors of stereotactic radiation therapy received. RESULTS Of the 6,208 included patients, 5,306 (85.5%) received GK and 902 (14.5%) received LINAC. The mean age of GK patients was significantly lower than that of LINAC patients (58.0 vs. 59.7, P < .001). Individuals treated with GK had greater proportions of private insurance (P < .001) and incomes greater than $63,332 (P = .003). A greater proportion of GK patients were treated in academic centers (P < .001), in high-volume facilities (P < .001), in metropolitan areas (P < .001), and in the Northeastern United States (P < .001). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, region, metropolitan area, facility type, tumor size, and distance traveled by patients independently predict receipt of GK versus LINAC. CONCLUSION Differences in patient demographics and other social determinants of health influence choice of GK versus LINAC therapy for VS patients. Future studies focused on addressing barriers to care, which may influence postprocedural quality of life and clinical outcomes associated with these two treatments are necessary to better understand the impact of these social differences. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4 Laryngoscope, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amar D Desai
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, U.S.A
| | - Vraj P Shah
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, U.S.A
| | - Christopher C Tseng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, U.S.A
| | - Roman Povolotskiy
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, U.S.A
| | - P Ashley Wackym
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey, U.S.A
| | - Yu-Lan Mary Ying
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, U.S.A
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Frosch ZAK, Namoglu EC, Mitra N, Landsburg DJ, Nasta SD, Bekelman JE, Iyengar R, Guerra CE, Schapira MM. Willingness to Travel for Cellular Therapy: The Influence of Follow-Up Care Location, Oncologist Continuity, and Race. JCO Oncol Pract 2022; 18:e193-e203. [PMID: 34524837 PMCID: PMC8757965 DOI: 10.1200/op.21.00312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients weigh competing priorities when deciding whether to travel to a cellular therapy center for treatment. We conducted a choice-based conjoint analysis to determine the relative value they place on clinical factors, oncologist continuity, and travel time under different post-treatment follow-up arrangements. We also evaluated for differences in preferences by sociodemographic factors. METHODS We administered a survey in which patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma selected treatment plans between pairs of hypothetical options that varied in travel time, follow-up arrangement, oncologist continuity, 2-year overall survival, and intensive care unit admission rate. We determined importance weights (which represent attributes' value to participants) using generalized estimating equations. RESULTS Three hundred and two patients (62%) responded. When all follow-up care was at the center providing treatment, plans requiring longer travel times were less attractive (v 30 minutes, importance weights [95% CI] of -0.54 [-0.80 to -0.27], -0.57 [-0.84 to -0.29], and -0.17 [-0.49 to 0.14] for 60, 90, and 120 minutes). However, the negative impact of travel on treatment plan choice was mitigated by offering shared follow-up (importance weights [95% CI] of 0.63 [0.33 to 0.93], 0.32 [0.08 to 0.57], and 0.26 [0.04 to 0.47] at 60, 90, and 120 minutes). Black participants were less likely to choose plans requiring longer travel, regardless of follow-up arrangement, as indicated by lower value importance weights for longer travel times. CONCLUSION Reducing travel burden through shared follow-up may increase patients' willingness to travel to receive cellular therapies, but additional measures are required to facilitate equitable access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary A. K. Frosch
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Zachary A. K. Frosch, MD, MSHP, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19111; e-mail:
| | - Esin C. Namoglu
- Lymphoma Program, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Nandita Mitra
- Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Daniel J. Landsburg
- Lymphoma Program, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Sunita D. Nasta
- Lymphoma Program, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Justin E. Bekelman
- Penn Center for Cancer Care Innovation, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Raghuram Iyengar
- Marketing Department, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Carmen E. Guerra
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Marilyn M. Schapira
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Philadelphia VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA
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Chang P, Zheng J. Updates in Cancer Rehabilitation Telehealth. CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2022; 10:332-338. [PMID: 36408472 PMCID: PMC9643960 DOI: 10.1007/s40141-022-00372-5] [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] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review To describe the various uses of telehealth as it applies to cancer rehabilitation and to review recent findings since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent Findings Telehealth has numerous applications in cancer rehabilitation including physiatry services, skilled therapies, exercise interventions, symptom management, and support groups. Numerous studies have shown that regular physician and skilled therapy services can be provided through telehealth platforms, though certain clinical situations may require in-person visits. Telehealth exercise-based interventions are feasible, safe, and can improve quality of life. Telehealth also may be an effective tool in symtom management and as a medium for support groups. Summary Telemedicine and telehealth platforms are effective tools in the field of cancer rehabilitation that not only provide increased safety and convenience for a burdened patient population but may also hold the potential to elevate beyond the current standard of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Chang
- Cedars Sinai Medical Center, 250 N. Robertson Blvd, Suite 403, Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA 90211 USA
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Seaman AT, Seligman KL, Nguyen KK, Al-Qurayshi Z, Kendell ND, Pagedar NA. Characterizing head and neck cancer survivors' discontinuation of survivorship care. Cancer 2022; 128:192-202. [PMID: 34460935 PMCID: PMC8678194 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about cancer survivors who discontinue survivorship care. The objective of this study was to characterize patients with head and neck cancer who discontinue survivorship care with their treating institution and identify factors associated with discontinuation. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2016, who received cancer-directed therapy at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics (UIHC). Eligible patients achieved a cancer-free status after curative-intent treatment and made at least 1 visit 90+ days after treatment completion. The primary outcome was discontinuation of survivorship care, which was defined as a still living survivor who had not returned to a UIHC cancer clinic for twice the expected interval. Demographic and oncologic factors were examined to identify associations with discontinuation. RESULTS Ninety-seven of the 426 eligible patients (22.8%) discontinued survivorship care at UIHC during the study period. The mean time in follow-up for those who discontinued treatment was 15.4 months. Factors associated with discontinuation of care included an unmarried status (P = .036), a longer driving distance to the facility (P = .0031), and a single-modality cancer treatment (P < .0001). Rurality was not associated with discontinuation (24.3% vs 21.6% for urban residence; P = .52), nor was age, gender, or payor status. CONCLUSIONS The study results indicate that a sizeable percentage of head and neck cancer survivors discontinue care with their treating institution. Both demographic and oncologic factors were associated with discontinuation at the treating institution, and this points to potential clinical and care delivery interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron T. Seaman
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kristen L. Seligman
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Khanh K. Nguyen
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Zaid Al-Qurayshi
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Nicholas D. Kendell
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Nitin A. Pagedar
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Buttiron Webber T, Giuliano S, Patrone C, Briata IM, Franconeri M, Marceca F, Magnani M, Paciolla F, Provinciali N, Defferrari C, Clavarezza M, D’Amico M, Gozza A, Boitano M, Alessio-Mazzola M, Cevasco I, DeCensi A. Home Se-Cure: A Home Care Service for Cancer Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182010913. [PMID: 34682650 PMCID: PMC8535406 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182010913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cancer patients are exposed to a greater risk of COVID-19 infection, resulting in treatment delays and unnecessary hospitalizations. International authorities have suggested reducing visits to hospitals and guarantee continuity of care. We developed a home care project called Home Se-Cure (HSC) to guarantee the continuity of oral, intramuscular, and subcutaneous cancer therapy during COVID-19. The Home Se-Cure project included cancer patients living near Galliera Hospital. Patients received home visits by registered nurses (RNs), whoperformed blood tests and delivered cancer therapies. Patients were instructed to take drugs after blood test results and therapy confirmation by oncologists. Sixty-six patients decided to participate and 38 declined the service. A customer satisfaction questionnaire was administered to a subgroup of patients participating in the project. The most prevalent disease in the HSC group was prostate cancer. The mean age of the patients in HSC was 78.4 years and 68.9 in the decliner group. The majority of the HSC participants appreciated the project because they could stay at home (71%) and reduce the risk of COVID-19 contagion (67.7%). Compared to decliners, the time the study group saved was 2033 hours. HSC guaranteed the continuity of care during the COVID-19 pandemic by reducing the number of patients in the hospital and avoiding crowds in the waiting room.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Buttiron Webber
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Silvia Giuliano
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Carlotta Patrone
- Office Innovation, Development and Lean Application, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Irene Maria Briata
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Maria Franconeri
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Francesca Marceca
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Monica Magnani
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Fortuna Paciolla
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Nicoletta Provinciali
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Carlotta Defferrari
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Matteo Clavarezza
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Mauro D’Amico
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Alberto Gozza
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Monica Boitano
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Mattia Alessio-Mazzola
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics (DISC), University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Isabella Cevasco
- Healthcare Professions Structure, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Andrea DeCensi
- Medical Oncology, Galliera Hospital, Mura delle Cappuccine 14, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (T.B.W.); (S.G.); (I.M.B.); (M.F.); (F.M.); (M.M.); (F.P.); (N.P.); (C.D.); (M.C.); (M.D.); (A.G.); (M.B.)
- European Institute of Oncology (IEO), IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-01-0563-4535
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Sazali MF, Rahim SSSA, Hayati F, Mohd Daud MN, Avoi R, Omar A, Atil A, Abd Rahim MA, Madrim MF, Mokti K, Ramdzan AR, Sidek Ahmad ZN, Zakaria AD, Che Ani MF, Ibrahim AF, Azhar ZI, Jeffree MS, Hassan MR. Colorectal cancer and potential predictors of never screened for faecal occult blood test: a narrative review. J Public Health Res 2021; 11. [PMID: 34351098 PMCID: PMC8859728 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2021.2377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major public health threat. Therefore, CRC screening uptake has been a focus with the established precancerous lesion and the strong association of early detection with staging and survival of the disease. However, CRC screening is relatively low in many countries. This article briefly discussed the current situation of CRC, recommendations, and current uptake of CRC screening in various countries. Besides that, this article also highlights the potential factors that help to predict the CRC screening uptake worldwide. Identification of those factors could guide policymakers to develop an effective strategy to improve the CRC screening uptake and ultimately improve the health outcome of the population. Significance for public health This study highlights the public health challenge in early screening for colorectal cancer (CRC). The prevalence of never screened for faecal occult blood test is relatively high. This review dissects the issue and further discuss on the predictors, which could guide policymakers in developing strategy to improve CRC screening uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Fazeli Sazali
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Syed Sharizman Syed Abdul Rahim
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Firdaus Hayati
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu.
| | - Mohd Nazri Mohd Daud
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Richard Avoi
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Azizan Omar
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Azman Atil
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Muhammad Aklil Abd Rahim
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Mohd Faizal Madrim
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Khalid Mokti
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Abdul Rahman Ramdzan
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Zulkhairul Naim Sidek Ahmad
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Andee Dzulkarnaen Zakaria
- Department of General Surgery, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Kelantan.
| | - Mohd Firdaus Che Ani
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor.
| | - Aini Fahriza Ibrahim
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Kota Samarahan, Sarawak.
| | - Zahir Izuan Azhar
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor.
| | - Mohammad Saffree Jeffree
- Community and Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
| | - Mohd Rohaizat Hassan
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur.
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Hu B, Boselli D, Pye LM, Chen T, Bose R, Symanowski JT, Blackley K, Moyo TK, Jacobs R, Park SI, Soni A, Avalos BR, Copelan EA, Raghavan D, Ghosh N. Equal access to care and nurse navigation leads to equitable outcomes for minorities with aggressive large B-cell lymphoma. Cancer 2021; 127:3991-3997. [PMID: 34289094 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aggressive large B-cell lymphomas (LBCLs) are curable, but previous studies have shown inferior outcomes in minorities. Nurse navigation programs can improve patient outcomes by providing patient support. This study presents the outcomes of White and minority patients with aggressive LBCL at an institution with an active nurse navigation program. METHODS The authors prospectively collected baseline characteristics, treatment regimens, and outcome data for patients with aggressive LBCL. Navigation encounters were characterized as low or high intensity. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were calculated with Kaplan-Meier methods. Baseline characteristics were compared with Fisher exact tests. RESULTS Two hundred four consecutive patients (47 minority patients and 157 White patients) were included. Results were presented as minorities versus Whites. There were no differences in prognostic scores (Revised International Prognostic Index score of 3-5, 43% vs 47%; P = .50), frontline chemotherapy (98% vs 96%; P = .68), or the incidence of relapsed/refractory disease (40% vs 38%; P = .74). For relapsed/refractory LBCL, similar proportions of patients underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (32% vs 29%; P > .99) or chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (16% vs 19%; P > .99). Enrollment in clinical trials was comparable (17% vs 14%; P = .64). More than 85% received nurse navigation, but minorities had higher intensity navigation encounters (42% vs 21%; P = .01). The 2-year OS rates were 81% and 76% for minorities and Whites, respectively (P = .27); the 2-year PFS rates were 62% and 65%, respectively (P = .78). CONCLUSIONS This study shows similar survival between Whites and minorities with aggressive LBCL, which was likely due to equal access to guideline-concordant therapy. Minorities received higher intensity navigation encounters, which may have helped them to overcome socioeconomic disadvantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei Hu
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Danielle Boselli
- Department of Biostatistics, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Lisa M Pye
- Department of Patient Navigation, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Tommy Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Rupali Bose
- Department of Biostatistics, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - James T Symanowski
- Department of Biostatistics, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Kris Blackley
- Department of Patient Navigation, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Tamara K Moyo
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Ryan Jacobs
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Steven I Park
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Amy Soni
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Belinda R Avalos
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Edward A Copelan
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Derek Raghavan
- Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Nilanjan Ghosh
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
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Pekala KR, Yabes JG, Bandari J, Yu M, Davies BJ, Sabik LM, Kahn JM, Jacobs BL. The centralization of bladder cancer care and its implications for patient travel distance. Urol Oncol 2021; 39:834.e9-834.e20. [PMID: 34162498 DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2021.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the impact of centralized surgical and nonsurgical care (i.e., radiation and chemotherapy) on travel distances and survival outcomes for patients with advanced bladder cancer. Bladder cancer is a disease with high mortality for which treatment access is paramount and survival is superior in patients receiving surgery at high-volume centers. METHODS Using SEER-Medicare, we identified patients 66 years or older diagnosed with bladder cancer between 2004-2013. We categorized patients as treated with either surgical (i.e., radical cystectomy) or nonsurgical (i.e., radiation or chemotherapy) care. We fit a linear probability model to generate the predicted proportion of patients treated at the top quintile of volume over time and assessed travel distance, 1-year all-cause mortality, and 1-year bladder cancer-specific mortality over time. RESULTS A total of 6,756 and 10,383 patients underwent surgical and nonsurgical care, respectively. The percentage of patients treated at high-volume centers increased over the study period for both surgical care (53% to 62%) and nonsurgical care (47% to 55%), (both P< 0.001). Median travel distance increased (11.8 to 20.3 miles) for surgical care and (6.5 to 8.3 miles) for nonsurgical care, (both P < 0.001). The 1-year adjusted all-cause mortality and 1-year adjusted bladder-cancer specific mortality decreased significantly for both surgical and nonsurgical care (both P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Over time, centralization of surgical and nonsurgical care for bladder cancer patients increased, which was associated with increasing patient travel distance and decreased all-cause and bladder-cancer specific mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jonathan G Yabes
- Center for Research on Health Care; Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine
| | | | | | | | - Lindsay M Sabik
- Center for Research on Health Care; Department of Health Policy and Management, Graduate School of Public Health
| | - Jeremy M Kahn
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Bruce L Jacobs
- Department of Urology; Center for Research on Health Care
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Garg T, Johns A, Young AJ, Nielsen ME, Tan HJ, McMullen CK, Kirchner HL, Cohen HJ, Murphy TE. Geriatric conditions and treatment burden following diagnosis of non-muscle- invasive bladder cancer in older adults: A population-based analysis. J Geriatr Oncol 2021; 12:1022-1030. [PMID: 33972184 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2021.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Treatment burden is emerging as an important patient-centered outcome for older adults with cancer who concurrently manage geriatric conditions. Our objective was to evaluate the contribution of geriatric conditions to treatment burden in older adults with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). METHODS We identified 73,395 Medicare beneficiaries age 66+ diagnosed with NMIBC (Stage <II) in SEER-Medicare (2001-2014). The primary outcome was treatment burden, defined as health system contact days in the year following NMIBC diagnosis. Explanatory variables were the following geriatric conditions: multimorbidity (≥ 2 chronic conditions), functional dependency, falls, depression, cognitive impairment, weight loss, and urinary incontinence. We used negative binomial regression to model the association between individual geriatric conditions and treatment burden while adjusting for covariates. RESULTS At baseline, 64% had multimorbidity and median 3 conditions (IQR 0-5). Prevalence of other geriatric conditions ranged from 5.9%-15.2%. Adjusted mean health system contact was 8.9 days (95% CI 8.6-9.2). Multimorbidity had the largest effect size (adjusted mean 11.8 contact days (95% CI 8.3-8.8)). Each additional chronic condition conferred a 13% increased average number of health system contact (adjusted IRR 1.132, 95% CI 1.129-1.135). Regardless of number of chronic conditions, rural patients consistently had more treatment burden than urban counterparts. DISCUSSION In this population-based cohort of older NMIBC patients, multimorbidity and rurality were strongly associated with treatment burden in the year following NMIBC diagnosis. These findings highlight the need for interventions that reduce treatment burden due to geriatric conditions among the growing population of older adults with cancer, particularly in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tullika Garg
- Department of Urology, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States of America; Department of Population Health Sciences, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States of America.
| | - Alicia Johns
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States of America; Biostatistics Core, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States of America
| | - Amanda J Young
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States of America; Biostatistics Core, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States of America
| | - Matthew E Nielsen
- Department of Urology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America; Departments of Epidemiology and Health Policy & Management, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America; Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR, United States of America
| | - Hung-Jui Tan
- Department of Urology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Carmit K McMullen
- Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR, United States of America
| | - H Lester Kirchner
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States of America; Biostatistics Core, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States of America
| | - Harvey J Cohen
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Terrence E Murphy
- Section of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
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Cham S, Huang Y, Melamed A, Worley MJ, Hou JY, Tergas AI, Khoury-Collado F, Gockley A, Clair CMST, Hershman DL, Wright JD. Fragmentation of surgery and chemotherapy in the initial phase of ovarian cancer care and its association with overall survival. Gynecol Oncol 2021; 162:56-64. [PMID: 33965245 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2021.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fragmentation occurs when a patient receives care at more than one hospital, and the long-term effects in ovarian cancer are unknown. We examined the association between fragmentation of primary debulking surgery (PDS) and adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) and overall survival (OS). METHODS The National Cancer Database was used to identify women with stage II-IV epithelial ovarian cancer between 2004 and 2016 who underwent PDS followed by AC. Fragmentation was defined as receipt of AC at a different institution than where PDS was performed. After propensity score weighting, proportional hazard models were developed to estimate the association between fragmented care and OS. RESULTS Of the 36,300 patients identified, 13,347 (36.8%) had fragmented care. Patient factors associated with fragmentation included older age, higher income, and longer travel distance for PDS; hospital factors included PDS performed at a community center or a facility with lower annual surgical volume (P < 0.05, all). Fragmentation was associated with a 15% risk of 30-day delay to AC (aRR 1.15, 95% CI 1.09-1.22). In a propensity scoring weighted analysis, mortality was reduced when AC was fragmented (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.92-0.97). Sensitivity analyses indicated fragmentation was associated with improved survival in metropolitan residents. Stratified analyses indicated patients who traveled 50 miles or more with PDS and AC at the same institution had the worst OS. CONCLUSION Fragmentation of PDS and AC has no adverse effects on long-term survival. Survival outcomes were worst for those who received care at the same institution 50 miles or more away.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Cham
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Brigham and Women's Hospital/Dana Farber Cancer Institute, United States of America
| | - Yongmei Huang
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, United States of America
| | - Alexander Melamed
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, United States of America; New York Presbyterian Hospital, United States of America; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, United States of America
| | - Michael J Worley
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Brigham and Women's Hospital/Dana Farber Cancer Institute, United States of America
| | - June Y Hou
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, United States of America; New York Presbyterian Hospital, United States of America; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, United States of America
| | - Ana I Tergas
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, United States of America; New York Presbyterian Hospital, United States of America; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, United States of America
| | - Fady Khoury-Collado
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, United States of America; New York Presbyterian Hospital, United States of America; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, United States of America
| | - Allison Gockley
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, United States of America; New York Presbyterian Hospital, United States of America; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, United States of America
| | - Caryn M S T Clair
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, United States of America; New York Presbyterian Hospital, United States of America; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, United States of America
| | - Dawn L Hershman
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, United States of America; New York Presbyterian Hospital, United States of America; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, United States of America; Joseph L. Mailman School of Public Health, United States of America
| | - Jason D Wright
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, United States of America; New York Presbyterian Hospital, United States of America; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, United States of America; Joseph L. Mailman School of Public Health, United States of America.
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Look KA, Dekeyser C, Conjurske S, Platta M, Bohnen C, Black P, Portillo E. Illustrating access to community pharmacies in Wisconsin. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2021; 61:492-499. [PMID: 33707122 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.02.004] [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: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Community pharmacists also play a vital public health role in increasing access to health care services and information during times of public health crisis. To examine access to community pharmacies in Wisconsin and the relationship between pharmacy locations and primary care health professional shortage areas (HPSAs). METHODS A list of licensed pharmacies in Wisconsin was screened to identify community pharmacies. Rural-urban commuting area codes were used to classify the rurality of pharmacy locations. Descriptive measures and pharmacy location maps were used to assess access to community pharmacies in the state as well as the relationship between pharmacy locations and primary care HPSAs. Spatial analysis was conducted to estimate the percentage of the population that lives within 10-, 20-, and 30-minute drive times of each community pharmacy. RESULTS Of the 837 community pharmacies in Wisconsin, 73 (68.5%) were located in metropolitan areas, 95 (11.4%) in micropolitan areas, 112 (13.4%) in small towns, and 57 (6.8%) in rural areas. A total of 265 (31.7%) community pharmacies were located in a primary care HPSA. The drive-time analysis found that 99.7% of the population lives within 30 minutes of a pharmacy, 98.7% within 20 minutes of a pharmacy, and 89.3% within 10 minutes of a pharmacy. CONCLUSIONS Nearly the entire Wisconsin population has convenient access to community pharmacies. Community pharmacies are ideally located in underserved areas with shortages of other health professionals, which may provide an opportunity for pharmacists to take on additional clinical roles to support health care providers and facilities in these areas.
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Yan F, Levy DA, Wen CC, Melvin CL, Ford ME, Nietert PJ, Pecha PP. Rural Barriers to Surgical Care for Children With Sleep-Disordered Breathing. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2021; 166:1127-1133. [PMID: 33648386 DOI: 10.1177/0194599821993383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of rural-urban residence on children with obstructive sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) who were candidates for tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy (TA). STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Tertiary children's hospital. METHODS A cohort of otherwise healthy children aged 2 to 18 years with a diagnosis of obstructive SDB between April 2016 and December 2018 who were recommended TA were included. Rural-urban designation was defined by ZIP code approximation of rural-urban commuting area codes. The main outcome was association of rurality with time to TA and loss to follow-up using Cox and logistic regression analyses. RESULTS In total, 213 patients were included (mean age 6 ± 2.9 years, 117 [55%] male, 69 [32%] rural dwelling). Rural-dwelling children were more often insured by Medicaid than private insurance (P < .001) and had a median driving distance of 74.8 vs 16.8 miles (P < .001) compared to urban-dwelling patients. The majority (94.9%) eventually underwent recommended TA once evaluated by an otolaryngologist. Multivariable logistic regression analysis did not reveal any significant predictors for loss to follow-up in receiving TA. Cox regression analysis that adjusted for age, sex, insurance, and race showed that rural-dwelling patients had a 30% reduction in receipt of TA over time as compared to urban-dwelling patients (hazard ratio, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.50-0.99). CONCLUSION Rural-dwelling patients experienced longer wait times and driving distance to TA. This study suggests that rurality should be considered a potential barrier to surgical intervention and highlights the need to further investigate geographic access as an important determinant of care in pediatric SDB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora Yan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Dylan A Levy
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Chun-Che Wen
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Cathy L Melvin
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Marvella E Ford
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Paul J Nietert
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Phayvanh P Pecha
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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Abstract
Telemedicine has clear benefits to the cancer population, including reducing the risk of contracting communicable disease, reaching remote populations, and added convenience. With adequate preparation, cancer rehabilitation telemedicine can serve as a suitable substitute for in-person encounters in several situations. There are limits with technologic deficits, reimbursement questions, and the inability to conduct hands-on physical examinations. It is important to appropriately triage patients to the most suitable visit type, whether telemedicine or in person, with aims of reducing unnecessary risks, monitoring for potential complications, and having productive encounters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, NT Lower Level, AC 1050, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
| | - Arash Asher
- Wellness, Resilience and Survivorship, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, NT Lower Level, AC 1109, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
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Chang PJ, Jay GM, Kalpakjian C, Andrews C, Smith S. Patient and Provider-Reported Satisfaction of Cancer Rehabilitation Telemedicine Visits During the COVID-19 Pandemic. PM R 2021; 13:1362-1368. [PMID: 33455066 PMCID: PMC8013293 DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.12552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has accelerated the growth of telemedicine services across the United States. In this study, we examined cancer rehabilitation patient and physician satisfaction with telemedicine visits. We also sought to evaluate the types of provider services that are given during telemedicine visits. OBJECTIVE To assess overall patient and provider satisfaction with telemedicine visits and explore whether satisfaction varied by contact method (phone or video) and encounter type (new problem, worsening problem, stable/improving problem). DESIGN Prospective survey study. SETTING Cancer rehabilitation program at an academic medical center. PARTICIPANTS Three cancer rehabilitation providers and 155 unique patients participated in the study. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Provider and patient satisfaction measured by customized surveys. RESULTS One hundred eighty-four encounters with 169 unique patients were scheduled. Of these, 14 were new visits and 170 were follow-up visits. Eighteen encounters (9.8%) were either no shows or rescheduled, making for 166 encounters with 155 unique patients. Patient and provider responses comprised the following: 94.8% of patient responses reported "quite a bit" or "very much" for the telemedicine visit being a good experience; 63.1% of patient responses reported "quite a bit" or "very much" for interest in using telemedicine visits in the future; and 83.9% of provider responses reported "quite a bit" or "very much" for the patient's main problem being addressed by the visit. Providers were more likely to prefer an in-person visit for a new or worsening problem versus a stable/improving problem. The most common services provided were medication prescription/titration and education/counseling. The least common services provided were making of new diagnoses, ordering interventional procedures, and making referrals. CONCLUSION Telemedicine visits were well received by both patients and providers in a cancer rehabilitation medicine clinic setting. However, in the case of a new or worsening problem, satisfaction declined. These data support that telemedicine visits should be considered essential as part of comprehensive cancer rehabilitation care, especially during a public health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip J Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.,Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Gina M Jay
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Claire Kalpakjian
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Cody Andrews
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Sean Smith
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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Shih YCT, Kim B, Halpern MT. State of Physician and Pharmacist Oncology Workforce in the United States in 2019. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:e1-e10. [PMID: 33270520 PMCID: PMC8189614 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.00600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the geographic distribution of physician and pharmacist workforce specialized in oncology in the United States. METHODS Using the National Provider Identifier data, we identified two types of oncology workforce via the healthcare provider taxonomy codes. Oncologists were physicians self-identified as providing oncologic care to patients. Oncology pharmacists were pharmacists with an oncology subspecialty. We calculated the geographic density of physician and pharmacist oncology workforce and used county-level cancer crude rates to quantify the demand for oncology workforce. We used spatial data to plot the density of oncology workforces relative to county-level cancer rates and compared the county-level density of oncologists and oncology pharmacists. RESULTS Of the 30,553 members of the oncology workforce in 2019, 28,681 were oncologists and 1,090 were oncology pharmacists. The mean county-level density of oncologists was 2.94 (SD = 7.32) per 100,000 persons. Sixty-four percent of counties had no oncologists with primary practice location in that county and 12% had no oncologists in the local and adjacent counties. Counties in the top quartile of cancer rates had the highest percentage without any oncologists with primary practice location in the county (75%) and with no oncologists in the local as well as adjacent counties (16%). CONCLUSION Geographically mismatched demand and supply characterized the current oncology workforce. Wide discrepancies in the supply of oncologists across geographic regions highlight the importance of developing core competencies for health professions not specialized in oncology to deliver quality cancer care in areas with unmet need for oncology care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Chen Tina Shih
- Section of Cancer Economics and Policy, Department of Health Services Research, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Bumyang Kim
- Section of Cancer Economics and Policy, Department of Health Services Research, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Michael T. Halpern
- Healthcare Delivery Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
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Washington SL, Gregorich SE, Meng MV, Suskind AM, Porten SP. Race modifies survival benefit of guideline-based treatment: Implications for reducing disparities in muscle invasive bladder cancer. Cancer Med 2020; 9:8310-8317. [PMID: 32869516 PMCID: PMC7666728 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black individuals with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) experienced 21% lower odds of guideline-based treatment (GBT) and differences in treatment explain 35% of observed Black-White differences in survival. Yet little is known of how interactions between race/ethnicity and receipt of GBT drive within- and between-race survival differences. METHODS Black, White, and Latino individuals diagnosed with nonmetastatic, locally advanced MIBC from 2004 to 2013 within the National Cancer Database were included. Guideline-based treatment was defined as the receipt including one or more of the following treatment modalities: radical cystectomy (RC), neoadjuvant chemotherapy with RC, RC with adjuvant chemotherapy, and/or chemoradiation based on American Urological Association guidelines. Cox proportional hazards model of mortality estimated effects of GBT status, race/ethnicity, and the GBT-by-race/ethnicity interaction, adjusting for covariates. RESULTS Of the 54 910 MIBC individuals with 125 821 person-years of posttreatment observation (max = 11 years), 6.9% were Black, and 3.0% were Latino. Overall, 51.4%, 45.3%, and 48.5% of White, Black, and Latino individuals received GBT. Latino individuals had lower hazard of death compared to Black (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.75-0.87) and White individuals (HR 0.92, 95% 0.86-0.98). With GBT, Latino and White individuals had similar outcomes (HR = 1.00, 95% 0.91-1.10) and both fared better than Black individuals (HR = 0.88, 95% 0.79-0.99 and HR = 0.88, 95% 0.83-0.94, respectively). Without GBT, Latino individuals fared better than White (HR = 0.85, 95% 0.77-0.93) and Black individuals (HR = 0.74, 95% 0.67-0.82) while White individuals fared better than Black individuals (HR = 0.87, 95% 0.83-0.92). Black individuals with GBT fared worse than Latinos without GBT (HR = 1.02, 95% 0.92-1.14), although not statistically significant. CONCLUSION Low GBT levels demonstrated an "under-allocation" of GBT to those who needed it most-Black individuals. Interventions to improve GBT allocation may mitigate race-based survival differences observed in MIBC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maxwell V. Meng
- Department of UrologyUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Anne M. Suskind
- Department of UrologyUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Sima P. Porten
- Department of UrologyUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCAUSA
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