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Hua M, Guo L, Ing C, Lackraj D, Wang S, Morrison RS. Specialist Palliative Care Use and End-of-Life Care in Patients With Metastatic Cancer. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024; 67:357-365.e15. [PMID: 38278187 PMCID: PMC11032225 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.01.029] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT For patients with advanced cancer, high intensity treatment at the end of life is measured as a reflection of the quality of care. Use of specialist palliative care has been promoted to improve care quality, but whether its use is associated with decreased treatment intensity on a population-level is unknown. OBJECTIVES To determine whether receipt of specialist palliative care use is associated with differences in end-of-life quality metrics in patients with metastatic cancer. METHODS Retrospective propensity-matched cohort of patients age ≥ 65 who died with metastatic cancer in U.S. hospitals with palliative care programs that participated in the National Palliative Care Registry in 2018-2019. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess the impact of specialist palliative care on use of chemotherapy in the last 14 days of life, use of intensive care unit (ICU) in the last 30 days of life, use of hospice, and hospice enrollment ≥ three days. RESULTS After 1:2 matching, our cohort consisted of 15,878 exposed and 31,756 unexposed patients. Receipt of specialist palliative care was associated with a decrease in use of chemotherapy (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 0.59 [0.50-0.70]) and ICU at the end of life (aHR 0.86 [0.80-0.92]), and an increase in hospice use (aHR 1.92 [1.85-1.99]) and hospice enrollment for ≥three days (aHR 2.00 [1.93-2.07]). CONCLUSION On a population-level, use of specialist palliative care was associated with improved metrics for quality end-of-life care for patients dying with metastatic cancer, underscoring the importance of its integration into cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- May Hua
- Department of Anesthesiology (M.H., C.I.), College of Physicians and Surgeons, Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA.
| | - Ling Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology (L.G.), College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Caleb Ing
- Department of Anesthesiology (M.H., C.I.), College of Physicians and Surgeons, Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Deven Lackraj
- Department of Anesthesiology (D.L.), Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Biostatistics (S.W.), Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - R Sean Morrison
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and James J Peters VA (R.S.M.), Bronx, New York, USA
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Lu S, Rakovitch E, Hannon B, Zimmermann C, Dharmarajan KV, Yan M, De Almeida JR, Yao CMKL, Gillespie EF, Chino F, Yerramilli D, Goonaratne E, Abdel-Rahman F, Othman H, Mheid S, Tsai CJ. Palliative Care as a Component of High-Value and Cost-Saving Care During Hospitalization for Metastatic Cancer. JCO Oncol Pract 2024:OP2300576. [PMID: 38442311 DOI: 10.1200/op.23.00576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that palliative care (PC) can improve quality of life and survival for outpatients with advanced cancer, but there are limited population-based data on the value of inpatient PC. We assessed PC as a component of high-value care among a nationally representative sample of inpatients with metastatic cancer and identified hospitalization characteristics significantly associated with high costs. METHODS Hospitalizations of patients 18 years and older with a primary diagnosis of metastatic cancer from the National Inpatient Sample from 2010 to 2019 were analyzed. We used multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression to assess medical services, patient demographics, and hospital characteristics associated with higher charges billed to insurance and hospital costs. Generalized linear mixed-effects models were used to determine cost savings associated with provision of PC. RESULTS Among 397,691 hospitalizations from 2010 to 2019, the median charge per admission increased by 24.9%, from $44,904 in US dollars (USD) to $56,098 USD, whereas the median hospital cost remained stable at $14,300 USD. Receipt of inpatient PC was associated with significantly lower charges (odds ratio [OR], 0.62 [95% CI, 0.61 to 0.64]; P < .001) and costs (OR, 0.59 [95% CI, 0.58 to 0.61]; P < .001). Factors associated with high charges were receipt of invasive medical ventilation (P < .001) or systemic therapy (P < .001), Hispanic patients (P < .001), young age (18-49 years, P < .001), and for-profit hospitals (P < .001). PC provision was associated with a $1,310 USD (-13.6%, P < .001) reduction in costs per hospitalization compared with no PC, independent of the receipt of invasive care and age. CONCLUSION Inpatient PC is associated with reduced hospital costs for patients with metastatic cancer, irrespective of age and receipt of aggressive interventions. Integration of inpatient PC may de-escalate costs incurred through low-value inpatient interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sifan Lu
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Eileen Rakovitch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Odette Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Breffni Hannon
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Camilla Zimmermann
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kavita V Dharmarajan
- Department of Radiation Oncology and the Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Michael Yan
- Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - John R De Almeida
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Christopher M K L Yao
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Erin F Gillespie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
| | - Fumiko Chino
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Divya Yerramilli
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | | | - Fadwa Abdel-Rahman
- Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hiba Othman
- Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sara Mheid
- Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Chiaojung Jillian Tsai
- Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Perea-Bello AH, Trapero-Bertran M, Dürsteler C. Palliative Care Costs in Different Ambulatory-Based Settings: A Systematic Review. PHARMACOECONOMICS 2024; 42:301-318. [PMID: 38151673 PMCID: PMC10861396 DOI: 10.1007/s40273-023-01336-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cost-of-illness studies in palliative care are of growing interest in health economics. There is no standard methodology to capture direct and non-direct healthcare and non-healthcare expenses incurred by health services, patients and their caregivers in the course of the ambulatory palliative care process. OBJECTIVE We aimed to describe the type of healthcare and non-healthcare expenses incurred by patients with cancer and non-cancer patients and their caregivers for palliative care in ambulatory-based settings and the methodology used to capture the data. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of studies on the costs of ambulatory-based palliative care in patients with cancer (breast, lung, colorectal) and non-cancer conditions (chronic heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, dementia) found in six bibliographic databases (PubMed, EMBASE [via Ovid], Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EconLit, the National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment Database and the National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database at the University of York, and Google Scholar). The studies were published between January 2000 and December 2022. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology for study selection and assessed study quality using the Quality of Health Economic Studies instrument. The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021250086). RESULTS Of 1434 identified references, 43 articles met the inclusion criteria. The primary data source was databases. More than half of the articles presented data from public healthcare systems (65.12%) were retrospective (60.47%), and entailed a bottom-up costing analysis (93.2%) made from a healthcare system perspective (53.49%). The sociodemographic characteristics of patients and families/caregivers were similar across the studies. Cost outcomes reports were heterogeneous; almost all of the studies collected data on direct healthcare costs (97.67%). The main driver of costs was inpatient care (55.81%), which increased during the end-of-life period. Nine studies (20.97%) recorded costs due to productivity losses for caregivers and three recorded such costs for patients. Caregiving costs were explored through an opportunity cost analysis in all cases, based on interviews conducted with and questionnaires administered to patients and caregivers, mainly via telephone calls (23.23%). CONCLUSIONS This systematic review reveals that studies on the costs of ambulatory-based palliative care are increasing. These studies are mostly conducted from a healthcare system perspective, which leaves out costs related to patients'/caregivers' economic burden. There is a need for prospective studies to assess this financial burden and evaluate, with strong evidence, the interventions and actions designed to improve the quality of life of palliative care patients. Future studies should propose cost calculation approaches using a societal perspective to better estimate the economic burden imposed on patients in ambulatory-based palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Trapero-Bertran
- Department of Economics and Business, Faculty of Law, Economics and Tourism, Universitat de Lleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Christian Dürsteler
- Pain Medicine Section, Department of Anaesthesiology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Surgery. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Kim S, Chervu N, Premji A, Mallick S, Verma A, Ali K, Benharash P, Donahue T. Association of Inpatient Palliative Care Consultation with Clinical and Financial Outcomes for Pancreatic Cancer. Ann Surg Oncol 2024; 31:1328-1335. [PMID: 37957512 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-023-14528-7] [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] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative care consultation (PCC) has been shown to improve quality of life and reduce costs for various chronic life-threatening diseases. Despite PCC incorporation into modern pancreatic cancer care guidelines, limited data regarding its specific utilization and impact on resource use is available. METHODS The 2016-2020 Nationwide Readmissions Database was used to identify all adult hospitalizations entailing pancreatic cancer. Only patients with at least one readmission within 90 days were included to account for uncaptured out-of-hospital mortality. Multivariable regression models were used to ascertain the relationship between inpatient PCC during initial hospitalization and index as well as cumulative costs, overall length of stay (LOS), readmission rate, and number of repeat hospitalizations. RESULTS Of an estimated 175,805 patients with pancreatic cancer, 11.1% had inpatient PCC during the index admission. PCC utilization significantly increased from 10.5% in 2016 to 11.6% in 2020 (nptrend < 0.001). After adjustment, PCC was associated with reduced index hospitalization costs [β: - $1100; 95% confidence interval (CI) - 1500, - 800; P < 0.001] and cumulative 90-day costs (β: - $11,700; 95% CI - 12,700, - 10,000; P < 0.001). PCC was associated with longer index LOS (β: + 1.12 days, 95% CI 0.92-1.31, P < 0.001) but significantly reduced cumulative LOS (β: - 3.16 days; 95% CI - 3.67, - 2.65; P < 0.001). Finally, PCC was linked with decreased odds of 30-day nonelective readmission (AOR: 0.48, 95% CI 0.45-0.50, P < 0.001). DISCUSSION PCC was associated with decreased costs, readmission rates, and number of hospitalizations among patients with pancreatic cancer. Directed strategies to increase utilization and reduce barriers to consultation should be implemented to encourage practitioners to maximize inpatient PCC referral rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shineui Kim
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Nikhil Chervu
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alykhan Premji
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Saad Mallick
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Arjun Verma
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Konmal Ali
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Peyman Benharash
- Cardiovascular Outcomes Research Laboratories (CORELAB), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Timothy Donahue
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Hoffman MR, Slivinski A, Shen Y, Watts DD, Wyse RJ, Garland JM, Fakhry SM. Would you be surprised? Prospective multicenter study of the Surprise Question as a screening tool to predict mortality in trauma patients. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2024; 96:35-43. [PMID: 37858301 DOI: 10.1097/ta.0000000000004151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Surprise Question (SQ) ("Would I be surprised if the patient died within the next year?") is a validated tool used to identify patients with limited life expectancy. Because it may have potential to expedite palliative care interventions per American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program Palliative Care Best Practices Guidelines, we sought to determine if trauma team members could use the SQ to accurately predict 1-year mortality in trauma patients. METHODS A multicenter, prospective, cohort study collected data (August 2020 to February 2021) on trauma team members' responses to the SQ at 24 hours from admission. One-year mortality was obtained via social security death index records. Positive/negative predictive values and accuracy were calculated overall, by provider role and by patient age. RESULTS Ten Level I/II centers enrolled 1,172 patients (87.9% blunt). The median age was 57 years (interquartile range, 36-74 years), and the median Injury Severity Score was 10 (interquartile range, 5-14 years). Overall 1-year mortality was 13.3%. Positive predictive value was low (30.5%) regardless of role. Mortality prediction minimally improved as age increased (positive predictive value highest between 65 and 74 years old, 34.5%) but consistently trended to overprediction of death, even in younger patients. CONCLUSION Trauma team members' ability to forecast 1-year mortality using the SQ at 24 hours appears limited perhaps because of overestimation of injury effects, preinjury conditions, and/or team bias. This has implications for the Trauma Quality Improvement Program Guidelines and suggests that more research is needed to determine the optimal time to screen trauma patients with the SQ. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Prognostic and Epidemiological; Level III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Red Hoffman
- From the Department of Surgery (M.R.H.), Trauma Services (A.S.), Mission Hospital, Asheville, North Carolina; and Center for Trauma and Acute Care Surgery Research (Y.S., D.D.W., R.J.W., J.M.G., S.M.F.), HCA Healthcare, Clinical Services Group, Nashville, Tennessee
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Walshe C, Mateus C, Varey S, Dodd S, Cockshott Z, Filipe L, Brearley SG. 'Thank goodness you're here'. Exploring the impact on patients, family carers and staff of enhanced 7-day specialist palliative care services: A mixed methods study. Palliat Med 2023; 37:1484-1497. [PMID: 37731382 PMCID: PMC10657500 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231201486] [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] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare usage patterns change for people with life limiting illness as death approaches, with increasing use of out-of-hours services. How best to provide care out of hours is unclear. AIM To evaluate the effectiveness and effect of enhancements to 7-day specialist palliative care services, and to explore a range of perspectives on these enhanced services. DESIGN An exploratory longitudinal mixed-methods convergent design. This incorporated a quasi-experimental uncontrolled pre-post study using routine data, followed by semi-structured interviews with patients, family carers and health care professionals. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Data were collected within specialist palliative care services across two UK localities between 2018 and 2020. Routine data from 5601 unique individuals were analysed, with post-intervention interview data from patients (n = 19), family carers (n = 23) and health care professionals (n = 33; n = 33 time 1, n = 20 time 2). RESULTS The mean age of people receiving care was 73 years, predominantly white (90%) and with cancer (42%). There were trends for those in the intervention (enhanced care) period to stay in hospital 0.16 days fewer, but be hospitalised 2.67 more times. Females stayed almost 3.5 more days in the hospital, but were admitted 2.48 fewer times. People with cancer had shorter hospitalisations (4 days fewer), and had two fewer admission episodes. Themes from the qualitative data included responsiveness (of the service); reassurance; relationships; reciprocity (between patients, family carers and staff) and retention (of service staff). CONCLUSIONS Enhanced seven-day services provide high quality integrated palliative care, with positive experiences for patients, carers and staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Walshe
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, England, UK
| | - Céu Mateus
- Health Economics at Lancaster, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, England, UK
| | - Sandra Varey
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, England, UK
| | - Steven Dodd
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, England, UK
| | - Zoe Cockshott
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, England, UK
| | - Luís Filipe
- Health Economics at Lancaster, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, England, UK
| | - Sarah G Brearley
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, England, UK
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Osagiede O, Nayar K, Raimondo M, Kumbhari V, Lukens FJ. The Determinants of Inpatient Palliative Care Use in Patients With Pancreatic Cancer. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2023:10499091231218257. [PMID: 37991926 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231218257] [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: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Symptom burden management is a major goal of pancreatic cancer care given that most patients are diagnosed late. Early palliative care is recommended in addition to concurrent active treatment; however, disparities exist. We sought to determine the factors associated with inpatient palliative treatment among pancreatic cancer patients and compare treatment outcomes in terms of mortality, discharge disposition and resource utilization. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of 22,053 pancreatic cancers using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database (January - December 2020). Patient and hospital characteristics, mortality, discharge disposition, length of stay (LOS), hospital costs and charges were compared between pancreatic cancer patients based on palliative treatment. Multivariate regression was used to evaluate patient and hospital characteristics and outcomes associated with palliative treatment. RESULTS A total number of 3839 (17.4%) patients received palliative care. Patients who received palliative care were more likely to be older, Medicaid insured, and nonobese. Patients were less likely to receive palliative care if they are males, Medicare insured, had a lower Charlson comorbidity score, or treated in Urban nonteaching hospitals. Patients who received palliative care displayed higher odds of in-hospital mortality and prolonged LOS. The adjusted additional mean hospital cost and charges in patients who received palliative care were lower by $1459, and $4222 respectively. CONCLUSIONS Inpatient palliative treatment in pancreatic cancer patients is associated with an older age, a higher comorbidity burden, non-obesity, insurance status and urban teaching hospitals. Our study suggests that inpatient palliative treatment decreased hospital resource utilization without prolonging survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osayande Osagiede
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Kapil Nayar
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Massimo Raimondo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Vivek Kumbhari
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Frank J Lukens
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
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Liao YS, Tsai WC, Chiu LT, Kung PT. Effects of the Time of Hospice and Palliative Care Enrollment before Death on Morphine, Length of Stay, and Healthcare Expense in Patients with Cancer in Taiwan. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2867. [PMID: 37958010 PMCID: PMC10648820 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11212867] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
We aimed to investigate the effects of the time from hospice and palliative care enrollment to death on the quality of care and the effectiveness and trend of healthcare utilization in patients with terminal cancer. Data on the cancer-related mortality rates between 2005 and 2018 reported in the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan were obtained. The effect of hospice and palliative care enrollment at different timepoints before death on healthcare utilization was explored. This retrospective cohort study included 605,126 patients diagnosed with terminal cancer between 2005 and 2018; the percentage of patients receiving hospice and palliative care before death increased annually. Terminal cancer patients who enrolled in hospice and palliative care at different timepoints before death received higher total morphine doses; the difference in the total morphine doses between the two groups decreased as the time to death shortened. The difference in the total morphine doses between the groups gradually decreased from 2005 to 2018. The enrolled patients had longer hospital stays; the length of hospital stays for both groups increased as the time to death lengthened, but the difference was not significant. The enrolled patients incurred lower total medical expenses, but the difference between the two groups increased as the time to death shortened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Shu Liao
- Department of Pathology, Taichung Armed Forces General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taichung 411228, Taiwan;
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan; (W.-C.T.); (L.-T.C.)
| | - Wen-Chen Tsai
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan; (W.-C.T.); (L.-T.C.)
| | - Li-Ting Chiu
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan; (W.-C.T.); (L.-T.C.)
| | - Pei-Tseng Kung
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Asia University, No. 500 Lioufeng Road, Wufeng, Taichung 413305, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
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Ohana S, Shaulov A, DeKeyser Ganz F. Acute palliative care models: scoping review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023:spcare-2022-004124. [PMID: 37591691 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2022-004124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this scoping review is to identify the most commonly used models of palliative care delivery in acute care settings, their advantages and disadvantages, and to review existent research evidence in support of each model. METHODS We conducted an extensive search using EMBASE, Medline, CINAHL and Pubmed, using various combinations of terms relating to models in palliative care and acute care settings. Data were analysed using tabular summaries and content analysis. RESULTS 41 articles were analysed. Four models were identified: primary, consultative, integrative and hybrid models of palliative care. All four models have varying characteristics in terms of access to specialist palliative care; fragmentation of healthcare services; therapeutic relationships between patients and providers; optimal usage of scarce palliative care resources; timing of provision of palliative care; communication and collaboration between providers and clarity of provider roles. Moreover, all four models have different patient outcomes and healthcare utilisation. Gaps in research limit the ability to determine what model of care is more applicable in an acute care setting. CONCLUSION No ideal model of care was identified. Each model had its advantages and disadvantages. Future work is needed to investigate which setting one model may be better than the other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shulamit Ohana
- Nursing, Hebrew University of Jerusalem Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Adir Shaulov
- Nursing, Hebrew University of Jerusalem Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Freda DeKeyser Ganz
- Nursing, Hebrew University of Jerusalem Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
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Chowdhury MK, Saikot S, Farheen N, Ahmad N, Alam S, Connor SR. Impact of Community Palliative Care on Quality of Life among Cancer Patients in Bangladesh. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6443. [PMID: 37568985 PMCID: PMC10418368 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20156443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Cancer, a leading cause of mortality worldwide, is often diagnosed at late stages in low- and middle-income countries, resulting in preventable suffering. When added to standard oncological care, palliative care may improve the quality of life (QOL) of these patients. A longitudinal observational study was conducted from January 2020 to December 2021. Thirty-nine cancer patients were enrolled in the Compassionate Narayanganj community palliative care group (NPC), where they received comprehensive palliative care in addition to oncological care. Thirty-one patients from the Dept. of Oncology (DO) at BSMMU received standard oncological care. In contrast to the DO group, the NPC group had a higher percentage of female patients, was older, and had slightly higher levels of education. At 10 to 14 weeks follow-up, a significant improvement in overall QOL was observed in the NPC group (p = 0.007), as well as in the psychological (p = 0.003), social (p = 0.002), and environmental domains (p = 0.15). Among the secondary outcomes, the palliative care group had reduced disability and neuropathic pain scores. Additionally, there were statistically significant reductions in pain, drowsiness, and shortness of breath, as well as an improvement in general wellbeing, based on the results of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale-Revised. At the community level in Bangladesh, increased access to palliative care may improve cancer patient outcomes such as QOL and symptom burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostofa Kamal Chowdhury
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (M.K.C.); (N.F.); (N.A.)
| | - Shafiquejjaman Saikot
- Compassionate Narayanganj (Community-Based Palliative Care Project), c/o Department of Palliative Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh;
| | - Nadia Farheen
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (M.K.C.); (N.F.); (N.A.)
| | - Nezamuddin Ahmad
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (M.K.C.); (N.F.); (N.A.)
| | - Sarwar Alam
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh;
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Chen J, de la Rosa A, Lai D, Dev R, Revere FL, Lairson D, Wermuth P, Bruera E, Hui D. Palliative medicine integration in the USA: cancer centre executives' attitudes. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023; 13:199-208. [PMID: 33846126 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002835] [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: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare cancer centre (CC) executives' attitudes towards palliative care between National Cancer Institute-designated CCs (NCI-CCs) and non-NCI-designated CCs (non-NCI-CCs) in 2018 and to examine the changes in attitudes and beliefs between 2009 and 2018. METHODS CC chief executives at all NCI-CCs and a random sample of non-NCI-CCs were surveyed from April to August 2018. Twelve questions examined the executives' attitudes towards palliative care integration, perceived barriers and self-assessments. The primary outcome was agreement on the statement 'a stronger integration of palliative care services into oncology practice will benefit patients at my institution.' Survey findings from 2018 were compared with data from 2009 to examine changes in attitudes. RESULTS 52 of 77 (68%) NCI-CCs and 88 of 126 (70%) non-NCI-CCs responded to the survey. A vast majority of executives at NCI-CCs and non-NCI-CCs endorsed palliative care integration (89.7% vs 90.0%; p>0.999). NCI-CCs were more likely to endorse increasing funding for palliative care (52.5% vs 23.1%; p=0.01) and hiring physician specialists (70.0% vs 37.5%; p=0.004) than non-NCI-CCs. The top three perceived barriers among NCI-CCs and non-NCI-CCs were limited institutional budgets (57.9% vs 59.0%; p=0.92), poor reimbursements (55.3% vs 43.6%; p=0.31), and lack of adequately trained palliative care physicians and nurses (52.6% vs 43.6%; p=0.43). Both NCI-CCs and non-NCI-CCs favourably rated their palliative care services (89.7% vs 71.8%; p=0.04) with no major changes since 2009. CONCLUSION CC executives endorse integration of palliative care, with greater willingness to invest in palliative care among NCI-CCs. Resource limitation continues to be a major barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Chen
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Allison de la Rosa
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Dejian Lai
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Rony Dev
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Frances Lee Revere
- Department of Management, Policy, and Community Health, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - David Lairson
- Department of Management, Policy, and Community Health, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Paige Wermuth
- Department of Management, Policy, and Community Health, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - David Hui
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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12
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Li L, Zhan S, Mckendrick K, Yang C, Mazumdar M, Kelley AS, Aldridge MD. Examining annual transitions in healthcare spending among U.S. medicare beneficiaries using multistate Markov models: Analysis of medicare current beneficiary survey data, 2003-2019. Prev Med Rep 2023; 32:102171. [PMID: 36950178 PMCID: PMC10025088 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102171] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Many studies have examined factors associated with individuals of high or low healthcare spending in a given year. However, few have studied how healthcare spending changes over multiple years and which factors are associated with the changes. In this study, we examined the dynamic patterns of healthcare spending over a three-year period, among a nationally representative cohort of Medicare beneficiaries in the U.S. and identified factors associated with these patterns. We extracted data for 30,729 participants from the national Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS), for the period 2003-2019. Using multistate Markov (MSM) models, we estimated the probabilities of year-to-year transitions in healthcare spending categorized as three states (low (L), medium (M) and high (H)), or to the terminal state, death. The participants, 13,554 (44.1%), 13,715 (44.6%) and 3,460 (11.3%) were in the low, medium and high spending states at baseline, respectively. The majority of participants remained in the same spending category from one year to the next (L-to-L: 76.8%; M-to-M: 71.7%; H-to-H: 56.6 %). Transitions from the low to high spending state were significantly associated with older age (75-84, ≥85 years), residing in a long-term care facility, greater assistance with activities of daily living, enrollment in fee-for-service Medicare, not receiving a flu shot, and presence of specific medical conditions, including cancer, dementia, and heart disease. Using data from a large population-based longitudinal survey, we have demonstrated that MSM modelling is a flexible framework and useful tool for examining changes in healthcare spending over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Li
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY, United States
- Tisch Cancer Institute, New York, NY, United States
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Serena Zhan
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY, United States
- Tisch Cancer Institute, New York, NY, United States
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Karen Mckendrick
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY, United States
- Tisch Cancer Institute, New York, NY, United States
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Madhu Mazumdar
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY, United States
- Tisch Cancer Institute, New York, NY, United States
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Amy S. Kelley
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Melissa D. Aldridge
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
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13
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Six S, Bilsen J, Deschepper R. Dealing with cultural diversity in palliative care. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023; 13:65-69. [PMID: 32826261 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Palliative care is increasingly confronted with cultural diversity. This can lead to various problems in practice. In this perspective article, the authors discuss in more detail which issues play a role in culture-sensitive palliative care, why naive culturalism will not solve such problems and in which direction research into this aspect of care can be further elaborated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefaan Six
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Dpt. of Public Health, Vrije Universiteit Brussel-Brussels Health Campus, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Johan Bilsen
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Dpt. of Public Health, Vrije Universiteit Brussel-Brussels Health Campus, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Reginald Deschepper
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Dpt. of Public Health, Vrije Universiteit Brussel-Brussels Health Campus, Brussel, Belgium
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14
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Leonard LD, Beaty L, Thomas M, Quinn C, Colborn KL, de Araujo TB, Torphy RJ, Assumpção LR, Olino K, Studts CR, Rodriguez Franco S, McCarter M, Stewart C, Gleisner AL. Unmeasured factors are associated with the use of completion lymph node dissection (CLND) in melanoma. J Surg Oncol 2023; 127:716-726. [PMID: 36453464 DOI: 10.1002/jso.27153] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Completion lymph node dissection (CLND) was the standard treatment for patients with melanoma with positive sentinel lymph nodes (SLN) until 2017 when data from the DeCOG-SLT and MLST-2 randomized trials challenged the survival benefit of this procedure. We assessed the contribution of patient, tumor and facility factors on the use of CLND in patients with surgically resected Stage III melanoma. METHODS Using the National Cancer Database, patients who underwent surgical excision and were found to have a positive SLN from 2012 to 2017 were included. A multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression model with a random intercept for the facility was used to determine the effect of patient, tumor, and facility variables on the risk of CLND. Reference effect measures (REMs) were used to compare the contribution of contextual effects (unknown facility variables) versus measured variables on the variation in CLND use. RESULTS From 2012 to 2017, the overall use of CLND decreased from 59.9% to 26.5% (p < 0.0001). Overall, older patients and patients with government-based insurance were less likely to undergo CLND. Tumor factors associated with a decreased rate of CLND included primary tumor location on the lower limb, decreasing depth, and mitotic rate <1. However, the contribution of contextual effects to the variation in CLND use exceeded that of the measured facility, tumor, time, and patient variables. CONCLUSIONS There was a decrease in CLND use during the study period. However, there is still high variability in CLND use, mainly driven by unmeasured contextual effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura D Leonard
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Laurel Beaty
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Madeline Thomas
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Christopher Quinn
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Kathryn L Colborn
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Thiago B de Araujo
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Robert J Torphy
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Lia R Assumpção
- Department of Surgery, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Kelly Olino
- Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Christina R Studts
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Salvador Rodriguez Franco
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,The Heart Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Martin McCarter
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Camille Stewart
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Ana L Gleisner
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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15
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Han HJ, Yeh JC, McNichol M, Buss MK. Delivering Palliative Care to Hospitalized Oncology Patients: A Scoping Review. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 65:e137-e153. [PMID: 36243248 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.09.016] [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: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Early, longitudinal integration of palliative care (PC) is recommended for patients with advanced cancer, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Despite the growth of specialty PC teams in the last decade, the majority of PC is still delivered in the inpatient setting using a traditional referral-based consult delivery model. However, traditional consultation can lead to significant variation or delay in inpatient PC utilization. New care delivery models and strategies are emerging to deliver PC to hospitalized oncology patients who would most benefit from their services and to better align with professional society recommendations. OBJECTIVES To identify different care models to deliver PC to ho`spitalized oncology patients and summarize their impact on patient and health system-related outcomes. METHODS We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed articles from 2006 to 2021 evaluating delivery of PC to oncology patients in acute inpatient care. We abstracted study characteristics, the study's intervention and comparison arms, and outcomes related to specialty PC intervention. RESULTS We identified four delivery models that have been reported to deliver PC: 1) traditional referral-based consultation, 2) criterion-based or "triggered" consultation, 3) co-rounding with primary inpatient team, and 4) PC clinicians serving as the primary team. We summarize the known outcomes data from each model, and compare the benefits and limitations of each model. CONCLUSION Our findings provide guidance to health systems about care delivery models to deploy and implement inpatient PC resources to best serve their unique populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry J Han
- Section of Palliative Care, Division of General Medicine and Primary Care (H.J.H., J.C.Y.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Jonathan C Yeh
- Section of Palliative Care, Division of General Medicine and Primary Care (H.J.H., J.C.Y.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Megan McNichol
- Division of Knowledge Services, Department of Information Services (M.M.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mary K Buss
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine (M.K.B.), Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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16
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Davis MP, Vanenkevort EA, Elder A, Young A, Correa Ordonez ID, Wojtowicz MJ, Ellison H, Fernandez C, Mehta Z, Behm B, Digwood G, Panikkar R. The Financial Impact of Palliative Care and Aggressive Cancer Care on End-of-Life Health Care Costs. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2023; 40:52-60. [PMID: 35503515 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221098062] [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: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medicare cancer expenditures in the last month of life have increased. Aggressive cancer care at the end-of-life (ACEOL) is considered poor quality care. We used Geisinger Health Plan (GHP) last month's costs for cancer patients who died in 2018 and 2019 to determine the costs of and influence of Palliative Care (PC) on ACEOL. METHOD Patients with GHP ages 18-99 who died in 2018 and 2019 were included. Demographic, clinical characteristics, and Charlson Comorbid Index were compared across care groups defined as no ACEOL indicator, 1 or more than 1 indicator. Differences between groups were compared with Kruskal-Wallis tests and one-way ANOVA for 3 groups. Median two-sample tests and independent t-tests compared groups of 2. A P-value </= .05 indicated statistical significance. RESULTS Of 608 eligible patients; 261 had no indicator, 133 had 1 and 214 > 1. There were incremental cost increases with each additional ACEOL indicator (p = < .0001). Palliative Care <90 days before death was associated with increased costs while consultations >90 days before death lowered cost (P < .0001) due to reduced chemotherapy in the last month. Completed ADs reduced cost by $4000. DISCUSSION ACEOL indicators multiply costs during the last month of life. Palliative care instituted >90 days before death reduces chemotherapy in the last month of life and AD reduces health care costs. CONCLUSION Cancer health care costs increase with indicators of ACEOL. Palliative care consultations >90 days before death; ADs reduce cancer health care costs.
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17
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Khan H, Cherla D, Mehari K, Tripathi M, Butler TW, Crook ED, Heslin MJ, Johnston FM, Fonseca AL. Palliative Therapies in Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer: Does Medicaid Expansion Make a Difference? Ann Surg Oncol 2023; 30:179-188. [PMID: 36169753 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-022-12563-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of medicaid expansion (ME) on receipt of palliative therapies in metastatic pancreatic cancer patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS A difference-in-differences (DID) approach was used to analyze patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer identified from the National Cancer Database diagnosed during two time periods: pre-expansion (2010-2012) and post-expansion (2014-2016). Patients diagnosed while residing in ME states were compared with those in non-ME states. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors of receipt of palliative therapies. RESULTS Of 87,738 patients overall, 7483(18.1%) received palliative therapies in the pre-expansion, while 10,211(21.5%) received palliative therapies in the post-expansion period. In the pre-expansion period, treatment at a high-volume facility (HVF) (odds ratio [OR] 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02-1.18) and non-west geographic location were predictive of increased palliative therapies. In the post-expansion period, treatment at an HVF (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.02-1.16), geographic location, and living in an ME state at the time of diagnosis (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.06-1.22) were predictive of increased palliative therapies. Older age, highest quartile median income (zip-code based), and treatment at a nonacademic facility were independently associated with decreased palliative therapies in both periods. DID analysis demonstrated that patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer living in ME states had increased receipt of palliative therapies relative to those in non-ME states (DID = 2.68, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The overall utilization of palliative therapies in metastatic pancreatic cancer is low. Multiple sociodemographic disparities exist in the receipt of palliative therapies. ME is associated with increased receipt of palliative therapies in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Khan
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Deepa Cherla
- Department of Surgery, The University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Krista Mehari
- Department of Psychology, The University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Manish Tripathi
- Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Thomas W Butler
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Errol D Crook
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Martin J Heslin
- Department of Surgery, The University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Fabian M Johnston
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Davidoff AJ, Canavan ME, Prsic E, Saphire M, Wang SY, Presley CJ. End-of-life care trajectories among older adults with lung cancer. J Geriatr Oncol 2023; 14:101381. [PMID: 36202695 PMCID: PMC9974538 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medicare decedents with cancer often receive intensive care during the last month of life; however, little information exists on longer end-of-life care trajectories. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using SEER-Medicare data, we selected older adults diagnosed with lung cancer between 2008 and 2013 who survived at least six months and died between 2008 and 2014. Each month we assessed claims to assign care categories ordered by intensity as follows: full-month inpatient/skilled nursing facility > cancer-directed therapy (CDT) only > concurrent CDT and symptom management and supportive care services (SMSCS) > SMSCS only > full-month hospice. We assigned each decedent to one of six trajectories: stable hospice, stable SMSCS, stable CDT with or without concurrent SMSCS, decreasing intensity, increasing intensity, and mixed. Multinomial logistic regression estimated associations between socio-demographics, calendar year, and area hospice use rates with end-of-life trajectory. RESULTS The sample (N = 24,342) was predominantly aged ≥75 years (59.4%) and non-Hispanic White (80.5%); 19.1% lived in healthcare referral regions where ≤50% of cancer decedents received hospice care. Overall, 6.5% were continuously hospice enrolled, 25.6% received SMSCS only, and 29.4% experienced decreasing intensity; 3.9% received CDT or concurrent care, while 8.7% experienced an increase in intensity. Higher healthcare referral region hospice rates were associated with decreasing end-of-life intensity; Black, non-Hispanic decedents had a higher risk of increasing intensity and mixed patterns. DISCUSSION Among older decedents with lung cancer, 62% had six-month end-of-life trajectories indicating low or decreasing intensity, but few received persistent CDT. Demographic characteristics, including race/ethnicity, and contextual measures, including area hospice use patterns, were associated with end-of-life trajectory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J Davidoff
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States of America; Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center (COPPER), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America; Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, CT, United States of America.
| | - Maureen E Canavan
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center (COPPER), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth Prsic
- Yale-Smilow Cancer Hospital, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Maureen Saphire
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Pharmacy, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Shi-Yi Wang
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States of America; Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center (COPPER), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America; Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Carolyn J Presley
- Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research Center (COPPER), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Columbus, OH, United States of America
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19
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Spencer AL, Nunn AM, Miller PR, Russell GB, Carmichael SP, Neri KE, Marterre B. The value of compassion: Healthcare savings of palliative care consults in trauma. Injury 2023; 54:249-255. [PMID: 36307268 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2022.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of palliative care (PC) consultation on patient costs and hospitalization metrics in the adult trauma population are unclear. STUDY DESIGN We interrogated our Level I trauma center databases from 1/1/19 to 3/31/21 for patients age ≥18 admitted to the trauma service. Patients undergoing PC consult were matched using propensity scoring to those without PC consultation based on age, admission Glasgow Coma Scale score, Injury Severity Score and Head Abbreviated Injury Scale. Total costs, total cost per day, hospital length of stay (LOS), ICU LOS, intubation days, discharge disposition, and rates of nephrology consultation and tracheostomy/feeding tube placements were compared. RESULTS 140 unique patients underwent PC consultation and were matched to a group not receiving PC consult during the same period. Median total costs in the PC cohort were $39,532 compared to $70,330 in the controls (p<0.01). Median costs per day in the PC cohort were $3,495 vs $17,970 in the controls (p<0.01). Median costs per ICU day in the PC cohort were $3,774 vs $17,127 in the controls (p<0.01). Mean hospital LOS (15.7 vs 7 days), ICU LOS (7.9 vs 2.9 days), and ventilator days (5.1 vs 1.5) were significantly higher in the PC cohort (all p<0.01). Rates of nephrology consultation (8.6 vs 2.1%, p = 0.03) and tracheostomy/feeding tube placements (12.1 vs 1.4%, p<0.01) were also higher in the PC group. Patients were more likely to discharge to hospice if they received a PC consult (33.6 vs 2.1%, p<0.01). Mean time to PC consult was 7.2 days (range 1 hour to 45 days). LOS post-consult correlated positively with time to PC consultation (r = 0.27, p<0.01). CONCLUSION Expert PC services are known to alleviate suffering and avert patient goal- and value-incongruent care. While trauma patients demand significant resources, PC consultation offered in concordance with life-sustaining interventions is associated with significant savings to patients and the healthcare system. Given the correlation between LOS following PC consult and time to PC consult, savings may be amplified by earlier PC consultation in appropriate patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey L Spencer
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, 1501 North Campbell Avenue, Room 5411, Tower 4, Tucson, AZ 85724, United States of America.
| | - Andrew M Nunn
- Department of Surgery, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, 1 Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States of America.
| | - Preston R Miller
- Department of Surgery, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, 1 Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States of America.
| | - Gregory B Russell
- Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, 1 Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States of America.
| | - Samuel P Carmichael
- Department of Surgery, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, 1 Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States of America.
| | - Kristina E Neri
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Bowman Gray Center for Medical Education, 475 Vine Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States of America.
| | - Buddy Marterre
- Departments of Surgery & Internal Medicine, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, 1 Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States of America.
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20
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Abian MH, Antón Rodríguez C, Noguera A. End of Life Cost Savings in the Palliative Care Unit Compared to Other Services. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 64:495-503. [PMID: 35842179 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.06.016] [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: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Hospital deaths carry a significant healthcare cost that has been confirmed to be lower when palliative care units (PCUs) are available. OBJECTIVES To compare the last admission hospital health care cost of dying in a first-level hospital between the PCU and the rest of the hospital services. METHODS A retrospective, comparative, observational study evaluating costs from the payer perspective on treatments and diagnostic-therapeutic tests performed on patients who die in first-level hospital, comparing whether they were treated by the PCU or another unit (Non-PCU). Patients with a mortality risk >2 were included according to the Severity of Illness Index (SOI) and Risk of Mortality (MOR). All cost express in €, median per patient and interquartile range (IQR). RESULTS From 1,833 patients who died, 1,389 were included, 442 (31.1%) treated by PCU and 928 (68.9%) Non-PCU. Statistical differences were found for the last admission total cost (€262.8 (€470.1) for PCU versus €515.3 (€980.48) in Non-PCU), daily total cost (€74.27 (€127.4) vs €115.8 (€142.4) Non-PCU). Savings were maintained when the sample was broken down by diagnosis-related group (DRG) and a multivariate analysis was performed to determine how the different patients baseline characteristics between PCU and Non-PCU patients influenced the results obtained. CONCLUSIONS Data from this study show that cost is significantly lower when the patients are treated by a PCU during their last hospital stay when they pass away.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Herrera Abian
- Palliative Care Chief, Hospital Universitario Infanta Elena (M.H.A.), Valdemoro, Madrid, España; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria (M.H.A.), Madrid, España
| | - Cristina Antón Rodríguez
- Palliative Care Chief, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz (C.A.R., A.N.), Madrid, España; Unidad de Apoyo a la Investigación, Facultad de Medicina (C.A.R.), Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, España.
| | - Antonio Noguera
- Palliative Care Chief, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz (C.A.R., A.N.), Madrid, España
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Ghazanfari MJ, Karkhah S, Shahroudi P, Mollaei A, Niksolat M, Foolady Azarnaminy A, Emami Zeydi A. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Attitudes of Iranian Nurses and Related Factors Towards End-Of-Life Care. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221133496. [PMID: 36254820 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221133496] [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: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This meta-analysis aimed to summarize the evidence regarding attitudes of Iranian nurses and related factors towards end-of-life (EOL) care. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Magiran, Iranmedex, Scientific Information Database, and Google Scholar search engine were searched using Persian and English appropriate keywords from the earliest records up to September 11, 2020. A total of 849 nurses were included in six studies. After a meta-analysis of the mean score of nurses' attitudes, the pooled mean was 80.07 out of 120 (Q(5)=4.32, I-squared=0.00%; 95%CI: 73.53-86.60; p < 0.001). Marital status, ward type, education level, a history of participating in EOL care workshops, personal study of EOL care, experience of caring for a dying family member or close people, natural and approach acceptance, fear of death, and professional autonomy had a significant positive relationship with nurses' attitudes towards EOL care. Therefore, further large-scale studies considering potential confounding variables are needed to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Javad Ghazanfari
- Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Samad Karkhah
- Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Parinaz Shahroudi
- Department of Surgical Technology, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Aghil Mollaei
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Health, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Maryam Niksolat
- Firoozabadi Clinical and Research Development Unit, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Foolady Azarnaminy
- Department of Anesthesiology and Ccritical Care Medicine, Social Security Organization Hospital, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Amir Emami Zeydi
- Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Nasibeh School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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Etkind SN, Li J, Louca J, Hopkins SA, Kuhn I, Spathis A, Barclay SIG. Total uncertainty: a systematic review and thematic synthesis of experiences of uncertainty in older people with advanced multimorbidity, their informal carers and health professionals. Age Ageing 2022; 51:6670562. [PMID: 35977149 PMCID: PMC9385183 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afac188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES uncertainty pervades the complex illness trajectories experienced by older adults with multimorbidity. Uncertainty is experienced by older people, their informal carers and professionals providing care, yet is incompletely understood. We aimed to identify and synthesise systematically the experience of uncertainty in advanced multimorbidity from patient, carer and professional perspectives. DESIGN systematic literature review of published and grey qualitative literature from 9 databases (Prospero CRD 42021227480). PARTICIPANTS older people with advanced multimorbidity, and informal carers/professionals providing care to this group. Exclusion criteria: early multimorbidity, insufficient focus on uncertainty. ANALYSIS weight-of-evidence assessment was used to appraise included articles. We undertook thematic synthesis of multi-perspective experiences and response to uncertainty. RESULTS from 4,738 unique search results, we included 44 articles relating to 40 studies. 22 focused on patient experiences of uncertainty (n = 460), 15 on carer experiences (n = 197), and 19 on health professional experiences (n = 490), with 10 exploring multiple perspectives. We identified a shared experience of 'Total Uncertainty' across five domains: 'appraising and managing multiple illnesses'; 'fragmented care and communication'; 'feeling overwhelmed'; 'uncertainty of others' and 'continual change'. Participants responded to uncertainty by either active (addressing, avoiding) or passive (accepting) means. CONCLUSIONS the novel concept of 'Total Uncertainty' represents a step change in our understanding of illness experience in advanced multimorbidity. Patients, carers and health professionals experienced uncertainty in similar domains, suggesting a shared understanding is feasible. The domains of total uncertainty form a useful organising framework for health professionals caring for older adults with multimorbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jiaqi Li
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - John Louca
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sarah A Hopkins
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK,Medical Library, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Isla Kuhn
- Medical Library, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anna Spathis
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stephen I G Barclay
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Rao SR, Salins N, Goh CR, Bhatnagar S. “Building palliative care capacity in cancer treatment centres: a participatory action research”. Palliat Care 2022; 21:101. [PMID: 35659229 PMCID: PMC9166521 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-00989-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
There is a significant lack of palliative care access and service delivery in the Indian cancer institutes. In this paper, we describe the development, implementation, and evaluation of a palliative care capacity-building program in Indian cancer institutes.
Methods
Participatory action research method was used to develop, implement and evaluate the outcomes of the palliative care capacity-building program. Participants were healthcare practitioners from various cancer institutes in India. Training and education in palliative care, infrastructure for palliative care provision, and opioid availability were identified as key requisites for capacity-building. Researchers developed interventions towards capacity building, which were modified and further developed after each cycle of the capacity-building program. Qualitative content analysis was used to develop an action plan to build capacity. Descriptive statistics were used to measure the outcomes of the action plan.
Results
Seventy-three healthcare practitioners from 31 cancer treatment centres in India were purposively recruited between 2016 and 2020. The outcome indicators of the project were defined a priori, and were audited by an independent auditor. The three cycles of the program resulted in the development of palliative care services in 23 of the 31 institutes enrolled in the program. Stand-alone palliative care outpatient services were established in all the 23 centres, with the required infrastructure and manpower being provided by the organization. Morphine availability improved and use increased in these centres, which was an indication of improved pain management skills among the participants. The initiation and continuation of education, training, and advocacy activities in 20 centres suggested that healthcare providers continued to remain engaged with the program even after the cessation of their training cycle.
Conclusion
This program illustrates how a transformational change at the organizational and individual level can lead to the development of sustained provision of palliative care services in cancer institutes.
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Amodeo SJ, Kowalkowski HF, Brantley HL, Jones NW, Bangerter LR, Cook DJ. Temporal Patterns of High-Spend Subgroups Can Inform Service Strategy for Medicare Advantage Enrollees. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:1853-1861. [PMID: 34100239 PMCID: PMC9198168 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-021-06912-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most healthcare costs are concentrated in a small proportion of individuals with complex social, medical, behavioral, and clinical needs that are poorly met by a fee-for-service healthcare system. Efforts to reduce cost in the top decile have shown limited effectiveness. Understanding patient subgroups within the top decile is a first step toward designing more effective and targeted interventions. OBJECTIVE Segment the top decile based on spending and clinical characteristics and examine the temporal movement of individuals in and out of the top decile. DESIGN Retrospective claims data analysis. PARTICIPANTS UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage (MA) enrollees (N = 1,504,091) continuously enrolled from 2016 to 2019. MAIN MEASURES Medical (physician, inpatient, outpatient) and pharmacy claims for services submitted for third-party reimbursement under Medicare Advantage, available as International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) and National Drug Codes (NDC) claims. KEY RESULTS The top decile was segmented into three distinct subgroups characterized by different drivers of cost: (1) Catastrophic: acute events (acute myocardial infarction and hip/pelvic fracture), (2) persistent: medications, and (3) semi-persistent chronic conditions and frailty indicators. These groups show different patterns of spending across time. Each year, 79% of the catastrophic group dropped out of the top decile. In contrast, 68-70% of the persistent group and 36-37% of the semi-persistent group remained in the top decile year over year. These groups also show different 1-year mortality rates, which are highest among semi-persistent members at 17.5-18.5%, compared to 12% and 13-14% for catastrophic and persistent members, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The top decile consists of subgroups with different needs and spending patterns. Interventions to reduce utilization and expenditures may show more effectiveness if they account for the different characteristics and care needs of these subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nicholas W Jones
- Department of Health Services, Policy, and Practice, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | | | - David J Cook
- OptumLabs at UnitedHealth Group, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Li L, Hu L, Ji J, Mckendrick K, Moreno J, Kelley AS, Mazumdar M, Aldridge M. Determinants of Total End-of-Life Health Care Costs of Medicare Beneficiaries: A Quantile Regression Forests Analysis. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2022; 77:1065-1071. [PMID: 34153101 PMCID: PMC9071433 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glab176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To identify and rank the importance of key determinants of end-of-life (EOL) health care costs, and to understand how the key factors impact different percentiles of the distribution of health care costs. METHOD We applied a principled, machine learning-based variable selection algorithm, using Quantile Regression Forests, to identify key determinants for predicting the 10th (low), 50th (median), and 90th (high) quantiles of EOL health care costs, including costs paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), private HMOs, and patient's out-of-pocket expenditures. RESULTS Our sample included 7 539 Medicare beneficiaries who died between 2002 and 2017. The 10th, 50th, and 90th quantiles of EOL health care cost are $5 244, $35 466, and $87 241, respectively. Regional characteristics, specifically, the EOL-Expenditure Index, a measure for regional variation in Medicare spending driven by physician practice, and the number of total specialists in the hospital referral region were the top 2 influential determinants for predicting the 50th and 90th quantiles of EOL costs but were not determinants of the 10th quantile. Black race and Hispanic ethnicity were associated with lower EOL health care costs among decedents with lower total EOL health care costs but were associated with higher costs among decedents with the highest total EOL health care costs. CONCLUSIONS Factors associated with EOL health care costs varied across different percentiles of the cost distribution. Regional characteristics and decedent race/ethnicity exemplified factors that did not impact EOL costs uniformly across its distribution, suggesting the need to use a "higher-resolution" analysis for examining the association between risk factors and health care costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Li
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, New York, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Liangyuan Hu
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, New York, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jiayi Ji
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, New York, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Karen Mckendrick
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jaison Moreno
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Amy S Kelley
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Madhu Mazumdar
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, New York, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Melissa Aldridge
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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Almeida LKR, Avelino-Silva TJ, de Lima E Silva DC, Campos BA, Varela G, Fonseca CMB, Amorim VL, Piza FMDT, Aliberti MJ, Degani-Costa LH. Palliative care in Hospitalized Middle-Aged and Older Adults With COVID-19. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:680-688. [PMID: 35017017 PMCID: PMC8743276 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT As COVID-19 overwhelms health systems worldwide, palliative care strategies may ensure rational use of resources while safeguarding patient comfort and dignity. OBJECTIVE To describe palliative care practices in hospitalized middle-aged and older adults in two of the largest COVID-19 treatment centers in Sao Paulo, Brazil. METHODS Retrospective cohort. Eligible patients were those aged 50 years or older hospitalized between March and May 2020 with a laboratory confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Palliative care implementation was defined as present if medical notes indicated a decision to limit escalation of life support measures, or when opioids or sedatives were prescribed for palliative management of symptoms. RESULTS We included 1162 participants (57% male, median 65 years). Overall, 21% were frail and 54% were treated in intensive care units, but only 17% received palliative care. Stepwise logistic regression demonstrated that age ≥80 years, dementia, history of stroke or cancer, frailty, having a PaO2/FiO2<200 or a C-reactive protein ≥150mg/dL at admission predicted palliative care implementation. Patients placed under palliative care stayed longer (13 vs.11 days) and were more likely to die in hospital (86 vs.27%). They also spent more days in ICU and received vasoactive drugs, hemodialysis, and invasive ventilation more frequently. CONCLUSIONS One in five middle-aged and older adults hospitalized with COVID-19 received palliative care in our cohort. Patients who were very old, multimorbid, frail, and had severe COVID-19 were more likely to receive palliative care. However, it was often delayed until advanced and invasive life support measures had already been implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyna Kyria Rodrigues Almeida
- Hospital Municipal Dr. Moysés Deutsch (L.K.R.D.A, D.C.D.L.S., B.A.C., G.V., C.M.B.F., V.L.A., F.M.D.T.P., L.H.D.C.) Sao Paulo, Brazil; Laboratório de Investigação Médica em Envelhecimento (LIM-66), Serviço de Geriatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina (L.K.R.D.A., T.J.A.S., M.J.A.), Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thiago J Avelino-Silva
- Laboratório de Investigação Médica em Envelhecimento (LIM-66), Serviço de Geriatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina (L.K.R.D.A., T.J.A.S., M.J.A.), Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil; Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein (T.J.A.S., V.L.A., L.H.D.C.), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Débora Carneiro de Lima E Silva
- Hospital Municipal Dr. Moysés Deutsch (L.K.R.D.A, D.C.D.L.S., B.A.C., G.V., C.M.B.F., V.L.A., F.M.D.T.P., L.H.D.C.) Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruna A Campos
- Hospital Municipal Dr. Moysés Deutsch (L.K.R.D.A, D.C.D.L.S., B.A.C., G.V., C.M.B.F., V.L.A., F.M.D.T.P., L.H.D.C.) Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Varela
- Hospital Municipal Dr. Moysés Deutsch (L.K.R.D.A, D.C.D.L.S., B.A.C., G.V., C.M.B.F., V.L.A., F.M.D.T.P., L.H.D.C.) Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristina Mara Baghelli Fonseca
- Hospital Municipal Dr. Moysés Deutsch (L.K.R.D.A, D.C.D.L.S., B.A.C., G.V., C.M.B.F., V.L.A., F.M.D.T.P., L.H.D.C.) Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Victor Lp Amorim
- Hospital Municipal Dr. Moysés Deutsch (L.K.R.D.A, D.C.D.L.S., B.A.C., G.V., C.M.B.F., V.L.A., F.M.D.T.P., L.H.D.C.) Sao Paulo, Brazil; Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein (T.J.A.S., V.L.A., L.H.D.C.), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Maia de Toledo Piza
- Hospital Municipal Dr. Moysés Deutsch (L.K.R.D.A, D.C.D.L.S., B.A.C., G.V., C.M.B.F., V.L.A., F.M.D.T.P., L.H.D.C.) Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marlon Jr Aliberti
- Laboratório de Investigação Médica em Envelhecimento (LIM-66), Serviço de Geriatria, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina (L.K.R.D.A., T.J.A.S., M.J.A.), Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiza Helena Degani-Costa
- Hospital Municipal Dr. Moysés Deutsch (L.K.R.D.A, D.C.D.L.S., B.A.C., G.V., C.M.B.F., V.L.A., F.M.D.T.P., L.H.D.C.) Sao Paulo, Brazil; Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein (T.J.A.S., V.L.A., L.H.D.C.), Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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Saravia A, Kong KA, Roy R, Barry R, Guidry C, McDaniel LS, Raven MC, Pou AM, Mays AC. Referral Patterns of Outpatient Palliative Care among the Head and Neck Cancer Population. Int Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2022; 26:e538-e547. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1741436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction Patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) experience unique physical and psychosocial challenges that impact their health and quality of life. Early implementation of palliative care has been shown to improve various health care outcomes.
Objective The aim of the present study was to evaluate the patterns of referral of patients with HNC to outpatient palliative care as they relate to utilization of resources and end-of-life discussions.
Methods We performed a retrospective review of 245 patients with HNC referred to outpatient palliative care services at two Louisiana tertiary care centers from June 1, 2014, to October 1, 2019. The control group consisted of those that were referred but did not follow-up. Reasons for referral were obtained, and outcome measures such as emergency department (ED) visits, hospital readmissions, and advance care planning (ACP) documentation were assessed according to predictive variables.
Results There were 177 patients in the treatment group and 68 in the control group. Patients were more likely to follow up to outpatient palliative care services if referred for pain management. Hospital system, prior inpatient palliative care, and number of outpatient visits were associated with an increased likelihood for ED visits and hospital readmissions. Those in the palliative care treatment group were also more likely to have ACP discussions.
Conclusion Early implementation of outpatient palliative care among patients with HNC can initiate ACP discussions. However, there are discrepancies in referral reasons to palliative care and continued existing barriers to its effective utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Saravia
- Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
| | - Keonho Albert Kong
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill, North Carolina USA
| | - Ryan Roy
- Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
| | - Rachel Barry
- Barry Ear Nose and Throat. 4212 W Congress St, Suite 1500, Lafayette, Louisiana, USA
| | - Christine Guidry
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States
| | - Lee S. McDaniel
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
| | - Mary C. Raven
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States
| | - Anna M. Pou
- Oschner Health System, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Ashley C. Mays
- Department of Otolaryngology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
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Davis MP, Van Enkevort EA, Elder A, Young A, Correa Ordonez ID, Wojtowicz MJ, Ellison H, Fernandez C, Mehta Z. The Influence of Palliative Care in Hospital Length of Stay and the Timing of Consultation. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2022; 39:1403-1409. [PMID: 35073780 DOI: 10.1177/10499091211073328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inpatient palliative care may reduce length-of-stay, costs, mortality, and prevent readmissions. Timing of consultation may influence outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore the timing of consultation and its influences patient outcomes. METHOD This retrospective study of hospital consultations between July 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019 compared patients seen within 72 hours of admission with those seen after 72 hours. Outcomes length of stay and mortality. Chi-square analyses for categorical variables and independent t-tests for continuous normally distributed variables were done. For nonparametrically distributed outcome variables, Wilcoxon rank sum test was used. For mortality, a time-to-event analysis was used. 30-day readmissions were assessed using the Fine-Gray sub-distribution hazard model. Multiple regression models were used, controlling for other variables. RESULTS 696 patients were seen, 424 within 72 hours of admission. The average age was 73 and 50.6% were female. Consultation within 72 hours was not associated with a shorter stay for cancer but was for patients with non-cancer illnesses. Inpatient mortality and 30-days mortality were reduced but there was a higher 30-day readmission rate. DISCUSSION Palliative consultations within 72 hours of admission was associated with lower hospital stays and inpatient mortality but increased the risk of readmission. Benefits were largely observed in patients followed in continuity. CONCLUSION Early inpatient palliative care consultation was associated with reduced hospital mortality, 30-day mortality and length of stay particularly if patients were seen by palliative care prior to hospitalization.
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Application of interdisciplinary collaborative hospice care for terminal geriatric cancer patients: a prospective randomized controlled study. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:3553-3561. [PMID: 35022886 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-06816-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospice care (HC) is specialized medical care for terminal patients who are nearing the end of life. Interdisciplinary collaborative hospice care (ICHC) is where experts from different disciplines and patients/caregivers form a treatment team to establish shared patient care goals. However, the ICHC efficacy has not been frequently studied in the terminal geriatric cancer patient (TGCP) population. This study aimed to gain insight into ICHC provided to TGCPs by an ICHC team and identify factors to ameliorate multidimensional HC. METHODS 166 TGCPs were randomized by a computer-generated random number table using an allocation ratio of 1:1. The patients were divided into the ICHC group and life-sustaining treatment (LST) group. The scores of these questionnaires, such as EORTC, QLQ-C30, Hamilton anxiety scale, the median survival time (MST), symptoms improvement, the median average daily cost of drugs (MADDC), the median total cost of drugs (MTDC) in the last 2 days, and medical care satisfaction were observed in both groups. RESULTS After treatment, the improvement of emotional function and symptoms in the ICHC group were statistically higher than those in the LST group (P < 0.05). The MADDC and the MTDC in the last 2 days were statistically lower in the ICHC group than those in the LSTs group (P < 0.01). In addition, the overall satisfaction situation and the cooperation ability in the ICHC group were statistically higher than those in the LST group (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION The ICHC could provide TGCPs with coordinated, comfortable, high-quality, and humanistic care.
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Elliott E, Watson T, Singh D, Wong C, Lo SS. Outcomes of Specialty Palliative Care Interventions for Patients With Hematologic Malignancies: A Systematic Review. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 62:863-875. [PMID: 33774128 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The outcomes of specialty palliative care (PC) interventions for patients with hematologic malignancies (HMs) is under-investigated. OBJECTIVES We performed a systematic review to evaluate the effect of PC interventions on patient- and caregiver- reported outcomes and healthcare utilization among adults with HMs (leukemia, myeloma, and lymphoma). METHODS From database inception through September 10, 2020, we systematically searched PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Reviews using terms representing HMs and PC. Eligible studies investigated adults aged 18 years and older, were published in the English language, and contained original, quantitative, or qualitative data related to patient- and/or caregiver-centered outcomes and healthcare utilization. RESULTS We screened 5345 studies;16 met inclusion criteria and found that specialty PC led to improved symptom management, decreased likelihood of inpatient death, decreased healthcare utilization, decreased cost of healthcare, and improved caregiver-reported outcomes. Patients with HM have a high need for PC which, though increasing over time, is often provided late in the clinical disease course. CONCLUSIONS Specialty PC interventions improve healthcare outcomes for patients with HMs and should be implemented early and often. There remains a need for additional studies investigating PC use exclusively in patients with HMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Elliott
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA.
| | - Tracie Watson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Daulath Singh
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Connie Wong
- Lane Medical Library & Knowledge Management Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Shelly S Lo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
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May P, Normand C, Noreika D, Skoro N, Cassel JB. Using predicted length of stay to define treatment and model costs in hospitalized adults with serious illness: an evaluation of palliative care. HEALTH ECONOMICS REVIEW 2021; 11:38. [PMID: 34542719 PMCID: PMC8454145 DOI: 10.1186/s13561-021-00336-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Economic research on hospital palliative care faces major challenges. Observational studies using routine data encounter difficulties because treatment timing is not under investigator control and unobserved patient complexity is endemic. An individual's predicted LOS at admission offers potential advantages in this context. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study on adults admitted to a large cancer center in the United States between 2009 and 2015. We defined a derivation sample to estimate predicted LOS using baseline factors (N = 16,425) and an analytic sample for our primary analyses (N = 2674) based on diagnosis of a terminal illness and high risk of hospital mortality. We modelled our treatment variable according to the timing of first palliative care interaction as a function of predicted LOS, and we employed predicted LOS as an additional covariate in regression as a proxy for complexity alongside diagnosis and comorbidity index. We evaluated models based on predictive accuracy in and out of sample, on Akaike and Bayesian Information Criteria, and precision of treatment effect estimate. RESULTS Our approach using an additional covariate yielded major improvement in model accuracy: R2 increased from 0.14 to 0.23, and model performance also improved on predictive accuracy and information criteria. Treatment effect estimates and conclusions were unaffected. Our approach with respect to treatment variable yielded no substantial improvements in model performance, but post hoc analyses show an association between treatment effect estimate and estimated LOS at baseline. CONCLUSION Allocation of scarce palliative care capacity and value-based reimbursement models should take into consideration when and for whom the intervention has the largest impact on treatment choices. An individual's predicted LOS at baseline is useful in this context for accurately predicting costs, and potentially has further benefits in modelling treatment effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter May
- Centre for Health Policy and Management, Trinity College Dublin, 3-4 Foster Place, Dublin, Ireland.
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Charles Normand
- Centre for Health Policy and Management, Trinity College Dublin, 3-4 Foster Place, Dublin, Ireland
- King's College London, Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, London, UK
| | - Danielle Noreika
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Nevena Skoro
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - J Brian Cassel
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Bringing Palliative Care Downstairs: A Case-Based Approach to Applying Palliative Care Principles to Emergency Department Practice. Adv Emerg Nurs J 2021; 42:215-224. [PMID: 32739951 DOI: 10.1097/tme.0000000000000307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Although the emergency department (ED) may not be traditionally thought of as the ideal setting for the initiation of palliative care, it is the place where patients most frequently seek urgent care for recurrent issues such as pain crisis. Even if the patients' goals of care are nonaggressive, their caregivers may bring them to the ED because of their own distress at witnessing the patients' suffering. Emergency department providers, who are trained to focus on the stabilization of acute medical crises, may find themselves frustrated with repeat visits by patients with chronic problems. Therefore, it is important for ED providers to be comfortable discussing goals of care, to be adept at symptom management for chronic conditions, and to involve palliative care consultants in the ED course when appropriate. Nurse practitioners, with training rooted in the holistic tradition of nursing, may be uniquely suited to lead this shift in the practice paradigm. This article presents case vignettes of 4 commonly encountered ED patient types to examine how palliative care principles might be applied in the ED.
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Sheridan PE, LeBrett WG, Triplett DP, Roeland EJ, Bruggeman AR, Yeung HN, Murphy JD. Cost Savings Associated With Palliative Care Among Older Adults With Advanced Cancer. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 38:1250-1257. [PMID: 33423523 DOI: 10.1177/1049909120986800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is inconsistent evidence that palliative care intervention decreases total healthcare expenditure at end-of-life for oncology patients. This inconsistent evidence may result from small sample sizes at single institution studies and disparate characterization of costs across studies. Comprehensive studies in population-based datasets are needed to fully understand the impact of palliative care on total healthcare costs. This study analyzed the impact of palliative care on total healthcare costs in a nationally representative sample of advanced cancer patients. METHODS We conducted a matched cohort study among Medicare patients with metastatic lung, colorectal, breast and prostate cancers. We matched patients who received a palliative care consultation to similar patients who did not receive a palliative care consultation on factors related to both the receipt of palliative care and end of life costs. We compared direct costs between matched patients to determine the per-patient economic impact of a palliative care consultation. RESULTS Patients who received a palliative care consultation experienced an average per patient cost of $5,834 compared to $7,784 for usual care patients (25% decrease; p < 0.0001). Palliative care consultation within 7 days of death decreased healthcare costs by $451, while palliative care consultation more than 4 weeks from death decreased costs by $4,643. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that palliative care has the capacity to substantially reduce healthcare expenditure among advanced cancer patients. Earlier palliative care consultation results in greater cost reductions than consultation in the last week of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige E Sheridan
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Science, Moores Cancer Center, 8784University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Wendi G LeBrett
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Science, Moores Cancer Center, 8784University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Daniel P Triplett
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Science, Moores Cancer Center, 8784University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Eric J Roeland
- Center for Palliative Care, 2348Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrew R Bruggeman
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Science, Moores Cancer Center, 8784University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Heidi N Yeung
- Doris A. Howell Palliative Care Service, Moores Cancer Center, 8784University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - James D Murphy
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Science, Moores Cancer Center, 8784University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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de Laat S, Wahoush O, Jaber R, Khater W, Musoni E, Abu Siam I, Schwartz L. A case analysis of partnered research on palliative care for refugees in Jordan and Rwanda. Confl Health 2021; 15:2. [PMID: 33407734 PMCID: PMC7789221 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-020-00333-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This case analysis describes dilemmas and challenges of ethical partnering encountered in the process of conducting a research study that explored moral and practical dimensions of palliative care in humanitarian crisis settings. Two contexts are the focus of this case analysis: Jordan, an acute conflict-induced refugee situation, and Rwanda, a protracted conflict-induced refugee setting. The study's main goal was to better understand ways humanitarian organizations and health care providers might best support ethically and contextually appropriate palliative care in humanitarian contexts. An unintended outcome of the research was learning lessons about ethical dimensions of transnational research partnerships, which is the focus of this case analysis. DISCUSSION There exist ongoing challenges for international collaborative research in humanitarian conflict-induced settings. Research partnerships were crucial for connecting with key stakeholders associated with the full study (e.g., refugees with life limiting illness, local healthcare providers, aid organization representatives). While important relationships were established, obstacles limited our abilities to fully attain the type of mutual partnership we aimed for. Unique challenges faced during the research included: (a) building, nurturing and sustaining respectful and equitable research partnerships between collaborators in contexts of cultural difference and global inequality; (b) appropriate ethics review and challenges of responding to local decision-maker's research needs; and (c) equity and fairness towards vulnerable populations. Research strategies were adapted and applied to respond to these challenges with a specific focus on (d) research rewards and restitution. CONCLUSIONS This case analysis sheds light on the importance of understanding cultural norms in all research roles, building relationships with decision makers, and developing teams that include researchers from within humanitarian crisis settings to ensure that mutually beneficial research outcomes are ethical as well as culturally and contextually relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya de Laat
- Global Health, McMaster University, MDCL 3500, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.
| | - Olive Wahoush
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Rania Jaber
- Department of Philosophy, Institute on Ethics & Policy for Innovation, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Wejdan Khater
- School of Nursing, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | | | | | - Lisa Schwartz
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Leibowitz AA, Tan D, Gildner JL. The Effect of Hospice on End-of-Life Costs for Terminal Medicare Patients With HIV. INQUIRY: The Journal of Health Care Organization, Provision, and Financing 2020; 57:46958020969381. [PMID: 33118403 PMCID: PMC7605034 DOI: 10.1177/0046958020969381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
One-quarter of annual Medicare expenses in the traditional program (non-Medicare Advantage) are expended for 5% of Medicare enrollees, with much of this expenditure occurring in the last year of life. Hospice use may reduce end-of-life costs. However, evidence has been inconclusive due to sample selection and differences in insurance coverage for hospice. Claims data for HIV-positive Californians enrolled in Medicare who died in the period 2008 to 2010 were used to examine the relationship between hospice use and costs in the last 6 months of life. Logit estimates related hospice use to sickness levels and demographics. Inpatient and outpatient costs were analyzed separately. Logit regressions examined hospitalization probability. Robust regressions were used to examine the determinants of conditional inpatient costs and non-inpatient costs. Bootstrapped post-estimates were then used to determine the marginal probability of costs for the sample by hospice use. Hospice users have greater disease burden and are less likely to be African American. Controlling for disease burden, hospice users would have non-inpatient costs that were $14 771 greater than hospice non-users, but inpatient costs that were $20 522 lower. Thus, hospice reduces costs on net. Hospice is chosen by patients with more comorbidities. Controlling for these comorbidities, hospice use is associated with lower inpatient costs, greater non-inpatient costs and reduced end-of-life costs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diane Tan
- UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Janberidze E, Poláková K, Bankovská Motlová L, Loučka M. Impact of palliative care consult service in inpatient hospital setting: a systematic literature review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2020; 11:351-360. [PMID: 32958505 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite a number of studies on effectiveness of palliative care, there is a lack of complex updated review of the impact of in-hospital palliative care consult service. The objective is to update information on the impact of palliative care consult service in inpatient hospital setting. METHODS This study was a systematic literature review, following the standard protocols (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, Joanna Briggs Institute tools) to ensure the transparent and robust review procedure. The effect of palliative care consult service was classified as being associated with improvement, no difference, deterioration or mixed results in specific outcomes. PubMed, Scopus, Academic Search Ultimate and SocINDEX were systematically searched up to February 2020. Studies were included if they focused on the impact of palliative care consult service caring for adult palliative care patients and their families in inpatient hospital setting. RESULTS After removing duplicates, 959 citations were screened of which 49 full-text articles were retained. A total of 28 different outcome variables were extracted. 18 of them showed positive effects within patient, family, staff and healthcare system domains. No difference was observed in patient survival and depression. Inconclusive results represented patient social support and staff satisfaction with care. CONCLUSIONS Palliative care consult service has a number of positive effects for patients, families, staff and healthcare system. More research is needed on factors such as patient spiritual well-being, social support, performance, family understanding of patient diagnosis or staff stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elene Janberidze
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology - Division of Medical Psychology, Charles University, Third Faculty of Medicine, Praha, Czech Republic .,Department of Gerontology and Palliative Medicine, Iv. Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University/Institute of Morphology, Tbilisi, Georgia.,Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences and Public Health, University of Georgia, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Kristýna Poláková
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology - Division of Medical Psychology, Charles University, Third Faculty of Medicine, Praha, Czech Republic.,Center for Palliative Care, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Bankovská Motlová
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology - Division of Medical Psychology, Charles University, Third Faculty of Medicine, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Loučka
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology - Division of Medical Psychology, Charles University, Third Faculty of Medicine, Praha, Czech Republic.,Center for Palliative Care, Praha, Czech Republic
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Flieger SP, Chui K, Koch-Weser S. Lack of Awareness and Common Misconceptions About Palliative Care Among Adults: Insights from a National Survey. J Gen Intern Med 2020; 35:2059-2064. [PMID: 32157652 PMCID: PMC7351936 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-020-05730-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite recent growth in palliative care programs palliative care remains underutilized. Studies suggest that patients and providers commonly associate palliative care with end of life, often leading to misconceptions and late referrals. OBJECTIVE To characterize self-reported palliative care knowledge and misconceptions about palliative care among US adults and demographic, health, and social role factors associated with knowledge and misconceptions. DESIGN We conducted secondary data analysis of nationally representative, self-reported data from the 2018 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) 5, Cycle 2. We examined associations between knowledge and misconceptions about palliative care together with demographics, health care access, health status, and social roles. PARTICIPANTS 3504 US adults. 2594 included in the first analysis after omitting missing cases; 683 who reported knowing about palliative care were included in the second analysis. MAIN MEASURES Palliative care knowledge was self-reported in response to: "How would you describe your level of knowledge about palliative care?" Level of misconceptions was based on a series of factual and attitudinal statements about palliative care. KEY RESULTS Among US adults, 28.8% report knowing about palliative care, but only 12.6% report knowing what palliative care is and hold no misconceptions. Those most likely to report knowing about palliative care are female, college-educated, higher income, have a primary health care provider, or are a caregiver. Among those who report knowing about palliative care, misconceptions were common: 44.4% automatically think of death, 38.0% equate palliative care with hospice, 17.8% believe you must stop other treatments, and 15.9% see palliative care as giving up. CONCLUSIONS US adults who have some knowledge of palliative care are most likely to confuse it with hospice but are less likely to see it as requiring forgoing treatment or as giving up. Primary care clinicians should be encouraged to communicate about palliative care with patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kenneth Chui
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Tailoring Chemometric Models on Blood-Derived Cultures Secretome to Assess Personalized Cancer Risk Score. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061362. [PMID: 32466587 PMCID: PMC7352557 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular protonation profiles obtained by means of an organic electrochemical transistor, which is used for analysis of molecular products released by blood-derived cultures, contain a large amount of information The transistor is based on the conductive polymer PEDOT:PSS comprising super hydrophobic SU8 pillars positioned on the substrate to form a non-periodic square lattice to measure the state of protonation on secretomes derived from liquid biopsies. In the extracellular space of cultured cells, the number of glycation products increase, driven both by a glycolysis metabolism and by a compromised function of the glutathione redox system. Glycation products are a consequence of the interaction of the reactive aldehydes and side glycolytic products with other molecules. As a result, the amount of the glycation products reflects the anti-oxidative cellular reserves, counteracting the reactive aldehyde production of which both the secretome protonation profile and cancer risk are related. The protonation profiles can be profitably exploited through the use of mathematical techniques and multivariate statistics. This study provides a novel chemometric approach for molecular analysis of protonation and discusses the possibility of constructing a predictive cancer risk model based on the exploration of data collected by conventional analysis techniques and novel nanotechnological devices.
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The health care cost of palliative care for cancer patients: a systematic review. Support Care Cancer 2020; 28:4561-4573. [PMID: 32440909 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05512-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Several delivery models of palliative care are currently available: hospital-based, outpatient-based, home-based, nursing home-based, and hospice-based. Weighing the differences in costs of these delivery models helps to advise on the future direction of expanding palliative care services. The objective of this review is to identify and summarize the best available evidence in the US on cost associated with palliative care for patients diagnosed with cancer. METHODS The systematic review was carried out of studies conducted in the US between 2008 and 2018, searching PubMed, Medline, the Cochrane library, CINAHL, EconLit, the Social Science Citation Index, Embase, and Science Citation Index, using the following terms: palliative, cancer, carcinoma, cost, and reimbursement. RESULTS The initial search identified 748 articles, of which 16 met the inclusion criteria. Eight studies (50%) were inpatient-based, four (25%) were combined outpatient/inpatient, two (12.5%) reported only on home-based palliative services, and two (12.5%) were in multiple settings. Most included studies showed that palliative care reduced the cost of health care by $1285-$20,719 for inpatient palliative care, $1000-$5198 for outpatient and inpatient combined, $4258 for home-based, and $117-$400 per day for home/hospice, combined outpatient/inpatient palliative care. CONCLUSION Receiving palliative care after a cancer diagnosis was associated with lower costs for cancer patients, and remarkable differences exist in cost saving across different palliative care models.
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Yi D, Johnston BM, Ryan K, Daveson BA, Meier DE, Smith M, McQuillan R, Selman L, Pantilat SZ, Normand C, Morrison RS, Higginson IJ. Drivers of care costs and quality in the last 3 months of life among older people receiving palliative care: A multinational mortality follow-back survey across England, Ireland and the United States. Palliat Med 2020; 34:513-523. [PMID: 32009542 DOI: 10.1177/0269216319896745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Care costs rise towards the end of life. International comparison of service use, costs and care experiences can inform quality and improve access. AIM The aim of this study was to compare health and social care costs, quality and their drivers in the last 3 months of life for older adults across countries. Null hypothesis: no difference between countries. DESIGN Mortality follow-back survey. Costs were calculated from carers' reported service use and unit costs. SETTING Palliative care services in England (London), Ireland (Dublin) and the United States (New York, San Francisco). PARTICIPANTS Informal carers of decedents who had received palliative care participated in the study. RESULTS A total of 767 questionnaires were returned: 245 in England, 282 in Ireland and 240 in the United States. Mean care costs per person with cancer/non-cancer were US$37,250/US$37,376 (the United States), US$29,065/US$29,411 (Ireland), US$15,347/US$16,631 (England) and differed significantly (F = 25.79/14.27, p < 0.000). Cost distributions differed and were most homogeneous in England. In all countries, hospital care accounted for > 80% of total care costs; community care 6%-16%, palliative care 1%-15%; 10% of decedents used ~30% of total care costs. Being a high-cost user was associated with older age (>80 years), facing financial difficulties and poor experiences of home care, but not with having cancer or multimorbidity. Palliative care services consistently had the highest satisfaction. CONCLUSION Poverty and poor home care drove high costs, suggesting that improving community palliative care may improve care value, especially as palliative care expenditure was low. Major diagnostic variables were not cost drivers. Care costs in the United States were high and highly variable, suggesting that high-cost low-value care may be prevalent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deokhee Yi
- Cicely Saunders Institute, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Bridget M Johnston
- The Centre for Health Policy and Management, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Karen Ryan
- Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Eccles Street, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Barbara A Daveson
- Cicely Saunders Institute, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Diane E Meier
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Melinda Smith
- Cicely Saunders Institute, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Lucy Selman
- Cicely Saunders Institute, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK.,Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Steven Z Pantilat
- Palliative Care Program, Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Charles Normand
- Cicely Saunders Institute, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK.,The Centre for Health Policy and Management, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - R Sean Morrison
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Irene J Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK.,King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Bessemer Road, London, UK
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Zemplényi AT, Csikós Á, Csanádi M, Mölken MRV, Hernandez C, Pitter JG, Czypionka T, Kraus M, Kaló Z. Implementation of palliative care consult Service in Hungary - integration barriers and facilitators. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:41. [PMID: 32220251 PMCID: PMC7102442 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00541-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Palliative Care Consult Service (PCCS) programme was among the first initiations in Hungary to provide palliative care for patients admitted to hospital. The PCCS team provides palliative care for mainly cancer patients and their family members and manages the patient pathway after being discharged from the hospital. The service started in 2014 with 300-400 patient visits per year. The aim of this study is to give a comprehensive overview of the PCCS programme guided by a conceptual framework designed by SELFIE ("Sustainable intEgrated chronic care modeLs for multi-morbidity: delivery, FInancing, and performancE"), a Horizon2020 funded EU project and to identify the facilitators and barriers to its wider implementation. METHODS PCCS has been selected by the SELFIE consortium for in-depth evaluation as one of the Hungarian integrated care models for persons with multi-morbidity. The qualitative analysis of the PCCS programme was based on available documents of the care provider and interviews with different stakeholders related to the programme. RESULTS The integrated, multidisciplinary and patient-centred approach was well-received among the patients, family members and clinical departments, as verified by the increasing number of requests for consultations. As a result of the patient pathway management across providers (e.g. from inpatient care to homecare) a higher level of coordination could be achieved in the continuity of care for seriously-ill patients. The regulatory framework has only partially been established, policies to integrate care across organizations and sectors and adequate financial mechanism to support the enhancement and sustainability of the PCCS are still missing. CONCLUSIONS The service integration of palliative care could be implemented successfully in an academic hospital in Hungary. However, the continuation and enhancement of the programme will require further evidence on the performance of the integrated model of palliative care and a more systematic approach particularly regarding the evaluation, financing and implementation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antal T Zemplényi
- Division of Pharmacoeconomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, Rákóczi street 2., Pécs, 7623, Hungary. .,Syreon Research Institute, Mexikói street 65/A, Budapest, H-1142, Hungary.
| | - Ágnes Csikós
- Department of Primary Health Care, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Marcell Csanádi
- Syreon Research Institute, Mexikói street 65/A, Budapest, H-1142, Hungary
| | - Maureen Rutten-van Mölken
- School of Health Policy and Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Institute for Medical Technology Assessment, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Carmen Hernandez
- Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Center for Biomedical Network Research in Respiratory Diseases, Madrid, Majadahonda, Spain
| | - János G Pitter
- Syreon Research Institute, Mexikói street 65/A, Budapest, H-1142, Hungary
| | | | | | - Zoltán Kaló
- Center for Health Technology Assessment, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Syreon Research Institute, Mexikói street 65/A, Budapest, H-1142, Hungary
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May P, Normand C, Morrison RS. Economics of Palliative Care for Cancer: Interpreting Current Evidence, Mapping Future Priorities for Research. J Clin Oncol 2020; 38:980-986. [PMID: 32023166 DOI: 10.1200/jco.18.02294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The National Cancer Institute estimates that $154 billion will be spent on care for people with cancer in 2019, distributed across the year after diagnosis (31%), the final year of life (31%), and continuing care between those two (38%). Projections of future costs estimate persistent growth in care expenditures. Early research studies on the economics of palliative care have reported a general pattern of cost savings during inpatient hospital admissions and the end-of-life phase. Recent research has demonstrated more complex dynamics, but expanding palliative care capacity to meet clinical guidelines and population health needs seems to save costs. Quantifying these cost savings requires additional research, because there is significant variance in estimates of the effects of treatment on costs, depending on the timing of intervention, the primary diagnosis, and the overall illness burden. Because ASCO guidelines state that palliative care should be provided concurrently with other treatment from the point of diagnosis onward for all metastatic cancer, new and ambitious research is required to evaluate the cost effects of palliative care across the entire disease trajectory. We propose a series of ways to reach the guideline goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter May
- Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Charles Normand
- Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - R Sean Morrison
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, New York, NY
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McDermott CL, Engelberg RA, Sibley J, Sorror ML, Curtis JR. The Association between Chronic Conditions, End-of-Life Health Care Use, and Documentation of Advance Care Planning among Patients with Cancer. J Palliat Med 2020; 23:1335-1341. [PMID: 32181689 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Multiple chronic conditions (MCCs) are associated with increased intensity of end-of-life (EOL) care, but their effect is not well explored in patients with cancer. Objective: We examined EOL health care intensity and advance care planning (ACP) documentation to better understand the association between MCCs and these outcomes. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting/Subjects: Patients aged 18+ years at UW Medicine who died during 2010-2017 with poor prognosis cancer, with or without chronic liver disease, chronic pulmonary disease, coronary artery disease, dementia, diabetes with end-stage organ damage, end-stage renal disease, heart failure, or peripheral vascular disease. Measurements: ACP documentation 30+ days before death, in-hospital death, and inpatient or intensive care unit (ICU) admission in the last 30 days. We performed logistic regression for outcomes. Results: Of 15,092 patients with cancer, 10,596 (70%) had 1+ MCCs (range 1-8). Patients with cancer and heart failure had highest odds of hospitalization (odds ratio [OR] 1.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.46-1.91), ICU admission (OR 2.06, 95% CI 1.76-2.41), or in-hospital death (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.43-1.84) versus patients with cancer and other conditions. Patients with ACP 30+ days before death had lower odds of in-hospital death (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.60-0.71), hospitalization (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.61-0.74), or ICU admission (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.64-0.80). Conclusions: Patients with ACP 30+ days before death had lower odds of high-intensity EOL care. Further research needs to explore how to best use ACP to ensure patients receive care aligned with patient and family goals for care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara L McDermott
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ruth A Engelberg
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - James Sibley
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Informatics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Mohamed L Sorror
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutch, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - J Randall Curtis
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Gahr S, Lödel S, Berendt J, Thomas M, Ostgathe C. Implementation of Best Practice Recommendations for Palliative Care in German Comprehensive Cancer Centers. Oncologist 2020; 25:e259-e265. [PMID: 32043783 PMCID: PMC7011673 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2019-0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background From 2014 to 2017, the Palliative Medicine Working Group developed and published best practice recommendations for the integration of palliative care in Comprehensive Cancer Centers (CCCs) in Germany. To evaluate the implementation level of these recommendations in the CCCs an online survey was performed. Based on the results of this study, strategic tandem partnerships between CCCs should be built in order to foster further local development. Materials and Methods Directors of all CCCs were contacted by e‐mail between December 2017 and February 2018. At the time of the survey, 15 CCCs were funded by the German Cancer Aid. The level of implementation of the recommendations in individual CCCs was established using a transtheoretical model. Results Between December 2017 and February 2018, all 15 contacted directors or their representatives of the CCCs took part in the survey. More than two thirds of the CCCs have a palliative service as well as a day clinic and palliative outpatient clinic. Regional networking and the provision of a palliative care unit were approved by all CCCs. Conclusion The publication of best practice recommendations was a milestone for the integration of palliative care in the CCCs. The majority of the German CCCs already fulfill essential organizational and structural requirements. There is a particular need for optimization in the provision of a basic qualification for general palliative care and emergency admission personnel. Implications for Practice In 2017, the Palliative Medicine Working Group in the network of the German Comprehensive Cancer Centers (CCCs) published the best practice recommendations it had developed for the integration of palliative medicine in CCCs in Germany. In order to evaluate the level of implementation of the recommendations, an online survey of the CCC directors was established. The majority of German CCCs fulfil elementary organizational and structural requirements. However, there is still room for improvement in the provision of a basic qualification for general palliative care and emergency admission personnel. This article evaluates the implementation of best practice recommendations for the integration of palliative care in Comprehensive Cancer Centers in Germany and calls for strategic partnerships between cancer centers to foster local development. NOTE: authors indicated financial conflicts but they are of a non‐commercial nature and thus do not need to be disclosed per journal policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Gahr
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Friedrich‐Alexander‐Universität Erlangen‐Nürnberg and Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen–Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg (EMN), University Hospital ErlangenErlangenGermany
| | - Sarah Lödel
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Friedrich‐Alexander‐Universität Erlangen‐Nürnberg and Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen–Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg (EMN), University Hospital ErlangenErlangenGermany
| | - Julia Berendt
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety AuthorityNürnbergGermany
| | - Michael Thomas
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Thoraxklinik, University of Heidelberg and Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC‐H), member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL)HeidelbergGermany
| | - Christoph Ostgathe
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Friedrich‐Alexander‐Universität Erlangen‐Nürnberg and Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen–Europäische Metropolregion Nürnberg (EMN), University Hospital ErlangenErlangenGermany
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Loh KP, Abdallah M, Shieh MS, Stefan MS, Pekow PS, Lindenauer PK, Mohile SG, Babu D, Lagu T. Use of Inpatient Palliative Care Services in Patients With Advanced Cancer Receiving Critical Care Therapies. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2019; 16:1055-1064. [PMID: 30181417 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2018.7039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background: Invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), dialysis for acute kidney failure, and other critical care therapies (CCTs) are associated with a high risk for complications in patients with metastatic cancer. Inpatient palliative care (IPC) can assist in assessing patients' preferences for life-prolonging treatment at the end of life. This study investigated the use pattern of IPC, outcomes (in-hospital mortality, length of stay [LOS], discharge destination, and cost of care), and predictors of IPC use in patients with metastatic cancer who received CCTs. We hypothesized that IPC services are underused in this cohort. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we used the 2010 California State Inpatient Databases to identify adults with metastatic cancer who received CCTs that are common and reliably coded (IMV, tracheostomy, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube, dialysis for acute kidney failure, and total parenteral nutrition). We determined IPC use in all patients, in those who received IMV, and across 4 cancer subtypes (lung, breast, colorectal, and genitourinary). Outcomes were assessed based on IPC use. Multivariable analyses were used to investigate factors associated with IPC use. Results: We identified 5,862 hospitalizations, 19.8% of which used IPC services. IPC use varied across cancer subtypes (lung, 28.3%; breast, 22.4%; colorectal, 12.8%; genitourinary, 16.1%; P<.01). Patients who received and did not receive IPC services had high in-hospital mortality rates (63.9% and 29.8%, respectively), and costs of care and LOS were lower in survivors who received IPC compared with those who did not. Predictors of IPC use were lung cancer (vs colorectal or genitourinary cancer), higher comorbidity score, do-not-resuscitate status on admission or within 24 hours of admission, infections (vs cancer-related diagnoses), and higher hospital bed count. Conclusions: Use of IPC was low in the cohort who received CCTs with poor outcomes, although data on outpatient palliative care services is lacking. Predictors of IPC use may be used to identify patients who may benefit from these services.
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Wagner E, Patrick DL, Khandelwal N, Brumback L, Starks H, Fausto J, Dunlap BS, Lober W, Sibley J, Loggers ET, Curtis JR, Engelberg RA. The Influence of Multimorbidity on Health Care Utilization at the End of Life for Patients with Chronic Conditions. J Palliat Med 2019; 22:1260-1265. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2018.0349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Wagner
- Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Donald L. Patrick
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Nita Khandelwal
- Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Lyndia Brumback
- Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Helene Starks
- Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Bioethics and Humanities, and University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - James Fausto
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Benjamin S. Dunlap
- Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - William Lober
- Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Informatics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - James Sibley
- Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Informatics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Elizabeth T. Loggers
- Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Seattle, Washington
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - J. Randall Curtis
- Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Ruth A. Engelberg
- Cambia Palliative Care Center of Excellence, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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May P, Normand C, Del Fabbro E, Fine RL, Morrison RS, Ottewill I, Robinson C, Cassel JB. Economic Analysis of Hospital Palliative Care: Investigating Heterogeneity by Noncancer Diagnoses. MDM Policy Pract 2019; 4:2381468319866451. [PMID: 31535032 PMCID: PMC6737878 DOI: 10.1177/2381468319866451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. Single-disease-focused treatment and hospital-centric care are poorly suited to meet complex needs in an era of multimorbidity. Understanding variation in palliative care’s association with treatment choices is essential to optimizing interdisciplinary decision making in care of complex patients. Aim. To estimate the association between palliative care and hospital costs by primary diagnosis and multimorbidity for adults with one of six life-limiting conditions: heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), liver failure, kidney failure, neurodegenerative conditions including dementia, and HIV/AIDS. Methods. Data from four studies (2002–2015) were pooled to provide an analytic dataset of 73,304 participants with mean costs $10,483, of whom 5,348 (7%) received palliative care. We estimated average effect of palliative care on direct hospital costs among the treated, using propensity scores to control for observed confounding. Results. Palliative care was associated with a statistically significant reduction in total direct costs for heart failure (estimated treatment effect: −$2666; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −$3440 to −$1892), neurodegenerative conditions (−$3523; −$4394 to −$2651), COPD (−$1613; −$2217 to −$1009), kidney failure (−$3589; −$5132 to −$2045), and liver failure (−$7574; −$9232 to −$5916). The association for liver failure patients was statistically significantly larger than for any other disease group. Cost-saving associations were also statistically larger for patients with multimorbidity than single disease for two of the six groups: neurodegenerative and liver failure. Conclusions. Heterogeneity in treatment effect estimates was observable in assessing association between palliative care and hospital costs for adults with serious life-limiting illnesses other than cancer. The results illustrate the importance of careful definition of palliative care populations in research and practice, and raise further questions about the role of interdisciplinary decision making in treatment of complex medical illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter May
- Centre for Health Policy and Management, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Charles Normand
- Centre for Health Policy and Management, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Egidio Del Fabbro
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | | | - R Sean Morrison
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai, New York
| | - Isabel Ottewill
- Centre for Health Policy and Management, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - J Brian Cassel
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
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Macmillan PJ, Chalfin B, Soleimani Fard A, Hughes S. Earlier Palliative Care Referrals Associated with Reduced Length of Stay and Hospital Charges. J Palliat Med 2019; 23:107-111. [PMID: 31329015 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Inpatient palliative care consultation services have been shown to have a dramatic impact on the time cancer patients spend in the hospital, which directly affects overall health care charges and expenditures. Objective: Our study looks at early palliative care consults in patients with a variety of chronic medical conditions as well as cancer. Design: This is a retrospective case-control study of patients referred to the palliative care department from April 2014 to June 2016. Setting/Subjects: This study took place at a university-affiliated community-based urban tertiary care hospital. Cases were patients with a referral placed for a palliative care consult <24 hours after registration into the hospital. Controls were chosen on a one-to-one basis from all other patients referred 24 or more hours after registration. Participants were matched on underlying disease, Charlson comorbidity index, and date of referral. Measurements: Primary outcomes were hospital length of stay and total hospital charges. Results: The median (interquartile range) length of stay was 4.2 days (2.0-7.2) for cases and 9.7 days (6.0-18.3) for the control group; p < 0.001. Total hospital charges in U.S. dollars for cases and controls was $38,600 ($22,700-$66,900) and $95,300 ($55,200-$192,700), respectively; p < 0.001. Similar differences were seen for cancer and chronic disease cases and controls. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates a significant association between reduced length of stay and hospital charges when consults for palliative care were initiated within 24 hours of hospital admission regardless of underlying disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J Macmillan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, University of California San Francisco Fresno, Fresno, California
| | - Brandon Chalfin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, University of California San Francisco Fresno, Fresno, California
| | - Alireza Soleimani Fard
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, University of California San Francisco Fresno, Fresno, California
| | - Susan Hughes
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, University of California San Francisco Fresno, Fresno, California
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Hwang J, Shen J, Kim SJ, Chun SY, Kioka M, Sheraz F, Kim P, Byun D, Yoo JW. Ten-Year Trends of Utilization of Palliative Care Services and Life-Sustaining Treatments and Hospital Costs Associated With Patients With Terminally Ill Lung Cancer in the United States From 2005 to 2014. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2019; 36:1105-1113. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909119852082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Palliative care services and life-sustaining treatments are provided to dying patients with lung cancer in the United States. However, data on the utilization trends of palliative care services and life-sustaining treatments of dying patients with lung cancer are not available. Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of the National Inpatient Sample data (2005-2014) and included patients with lung cancer, aged ≥ 18 years, who died in the hospitals. Claims data of palliative care services and life-sustaining treatments that contained systemic procedures, local procedures, or surgeries were extracted. Compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) using Rao-Scott correction for χ2 tests were used to determine the statistical significance of temporal utilization trends of palliative care services and life-sustaining treatments and their hospital costs. Multilevel multivariate regressions were performed to identify factors associated with hospital costs. Results: A total of 120 144 weighted patients with lung cancer died in the hospitals and 41.9% of them received palliative care services. The CAGRs of systemic procedures, local procedures, surgeries, palliative care services, and hospital cost were 3.42%, 3.48%, 6.08%, 18.5%, and 5.0% (all P < .001), respectively. Increased hospital cost was attributed to systemic procedures (50.6%), local procedures (74.4%), and surgeries (68.5%; all P < .001), respectively. Palliative care services were related to decreasing hospital costs by 28.6% ( P < .001). Conclusion: The temporal trends of palliative care services indicate that their utilization has increased gradually. Palliative care services were associated with reduced hospital costs. However, life-sustaining treatments were associated with increased hospital costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinwook Hwang
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, Korea University Medical Center, Ansan Hospital, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
- Department of Health Care Administration and Policy, School of Community Health Science, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Jay Shen
- Department of Health Care Administration and Policy, School of Community Health Science, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Sun Jung Kim
- Department of Health Administration and Management, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea
| | - Sung-Youn Chun
- Department of Health Care Administration and Policy, School of Community Health Science, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Mutsumi Kioka
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nevada Las Vegas School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Faizan Sheraz
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nevada Las Vegas School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Pearl Kim
- Department of Health Care Administration and Policy, School of Community Health Science, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - David Byun
- Department of Medicine, Southern Nevada Veterans Affairs Health System, North Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Ji Won Yoo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nevada Las Vegas School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
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Barkley JE, McCall A, Maslow AL, Skudlarska BA, Chen X. Timing of Palliative Care Consultation and the Impact on Thirty-Day Readmissions and Inpatient Mortality. J Palliat Med 2019; 22:393-399. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2018.0399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- John E. Barkley
- Continuing Care Services, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Andrea McCall
- Quality Division, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Andréa L. Maslow
- Information and Analytics Services, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina
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