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Wilson CA, Jamil TL, Velu PS, Levi JR. Patient Factors Associated with Missed Otolaryngology Appointments at an Urban Safety-Net Hospital. Laryngoscope 2024. [PMID: 38602281 DOI: 10.1002/lary.31401] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if patient factors related to ethnicity, socioeconomic status (SES), medical comorbidities, or appointment characteristics increase the risk of missing an initial adult otolaryngology appointment. METHODS This study is a retrospective case control study at Boston Medical Center (BMC) in Boston, Massachusetts, that took place in 2019. Patient demographic and medical comorbidity data as well as appointment characteristic data were collected and compared between those that attended their initial otolaryngology appointment versus those who missed their initial appointment. Chi-square and ANOVA tests were used to calculate differences between attendance outcomes. Multivariate analysis was used to compare the odds of missing an appointment based on various patient- and appointment-related factors. RESULTS Patients who were more likely to miss their appointments were more often female, of lower education, disabled, not employed, Black or Hispanic, and Spanish-speaking. Spring and Fall appointments were more likely to be missed. When a multivariate regression was conducted to control for social determinants of health (SDOH) such as race, insurance status, employment, and education status, the odds of females, Spanish-speaking, students, and disabled patients missing their appointment were no longer statistically significant. CONCLUSION A majority of patients at BMC come from lower SES backgrounds and have multiple medical comorbidities. Those who reside closer to BMC, often areas of lower average income, had higher rates of missed appointments. Interventions such as decreasing lag time, providing handicap-accessible free transportation, and increasing accessibility of telemedicine for patients could help improve attendance rates at BMC. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV Laryngoscope, 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn A Wilson
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
| | - Taylor L Jamil
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, U.S.A
| | - Preetha S Velu
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
| | - Jessica R Levi
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
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2
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Pecha PP, Nicholas Jungbauer W, Ruggiero KJ, Nietert P, Melvin CL, Ford ME. Parental Experiences With Access to Care for Obstructive Sleep-Disordered Breathing: A Qualitative Study. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2023; 169:1319-1328. [PMID: 37161964 DOI: 10.1002/ohn.365] [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: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite evidence-based guidelines for obstructive sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), recent studies continue to highlight treatment inequities. We used qualitative research methods to examine parental facilitators and barriers to SDB treatment. STUDY DESIGN Qualitative interviews. SETTING Tertiary care center. METHODS Semistructured interviews were conducted (January-April 2022) with parents of children with SDB who underwent tonsillectomies to understand the processes of SDB detection and accessing specialty care. Interviews were conducted until thematic saturation was reached and coded using NVivo software. RESULTS Of the 17 parents who completed the key informant interviews, 6 (35%) were of non-Hispanic black race, and 3 (17.6%) interviews were conducted in Spanish. Parents noted that the more knowledge their primary care provider (PCP) had about SDB, the easier it was to obtain a diagnostic workup (41%). The most common barrier included difficulty obtaining a specialist (otolaryngology or sleep medicine) referral from their PCP and encountering providers who were dismissive of parent-reported symptoms related to SDB, leading them to seek a second opinion or self-refer (53%). Medicaid coverage was a strong facilitator to receipt of care (59%). Three (17.6%) parents noted alienation in the process due to racial bias or language barriers. CONCLUSION Parental interviews revealed that facilitators of SDB treatment included high clinician knowledge and perceived importance of SDB as well as Medicaid insurance which decreased financial strain. Parents also cited the attainment of referrals as a significant barrier to obtaining specialty evaluation. These findings identify potential modifiable areas to tailor future interventions for timely and equitable SDB care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phayvanh P Pecha
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Walter Nicholas Jungbauer
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kenneth J Ruggiero
- Medical University of South Carolina College of Nursing, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Paul Nietert
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Cathy L Melvin
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Marvella E Ford
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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3
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Fattahi CB, Purkayastha A, Roychowdhury P, Kamil SH, Sobin L. Impacts of health insurance on tympanostomy tube outcomes in the pediatric population. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2023; 173:111715. [PMID: 37659379 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2023.111715] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Tympanostomy tube (TT) placement is a common surgical procedure for treating pediatric patients with chronic otitis media with effusion (COME) with or without recurrent acute otitis media (rAOM). Prior work suggests children from low-income families face significant disparities in access to care for rAOM or COME. The impact of these health disparities in the care of children with rAOM or COME has yet to be investigated in a state with an expanded public health insurance model. We seek to examine differences in care for patients with rAOM and COME based on insurance status and socioeconomic status (SES) in Massachusetts. METHODS Retrospective review of 560 pediatric patients referred for TT insertion at a tertiary academic medical center between 2017 and 2019. Demographic data collected included age, ethnicity, insurance type (public, private, none) and zip code. Otologic history collected included prior AOM episodes, time to postoperative follow-up, postoperative "no-show" appointments, and number of postoperative audiograms. Multinomial logistic regression was used to isolate the effects of race and ethnicity. RESULTS We found no major differences in preoperative outcome measures between cohorts. Postoperatively, public insurance was independently associated with decreased odds of undergoing an audiogram (OR 0.35, 95% Cl 0.16-0.76) and increased odds of "no-showing" for an appointment (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.8-5.3). SES was not independently associated with differences in postoperative outcomes. CONCLUSION In a state with an early expanded public health insurance model, access to care for rAOM and COME is comparable despite differences in insurance type and SES. However, enrollment in public health insurance is associated with worse measures of follow up care. Despite improvements in access to care with expanded health insurance models, retention continues to be a challenge for vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron B Fattahi
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ayan Purkayastha
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Prithwijit Roychowdhury
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Syed H Kamil
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Lindsay Sobin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA.
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4
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Racial disparities in pediatric otolaryngology: current state and future hope. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2021; 29:492-503. [PMID: 34710068 DOI: 10.1097/moo.0000000000000759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The current article reviews the current literature and selected sentinel papers on health disparities particularly relevant to the field of pediatric otolaryngology. The discussion will explore racial disparities in otologic and airway intervention areas, as well as general adenotonsillar disease management. Access to and quality of care will be examined, and disparate outcomes discussed. RECENT FINDINGS Growing published data demonstrate children from nonwhite backgrounds receive disparate specialty care in representative fields of pediatric otolaryngology. SUMMARY Racial disparities exist in specialty care pediatric otolaryngology. Such disparities should be viewed in the light of generational inequalities in the United States and the foundational inequities that perpetuate them. Parity in the delivery of such specialty care depends on recognizing our current state and intentional efforts to modulate the impact of such effectual factors.
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5
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McCoy JL, Dixit R, Lin RJ, Belsky MA, Shaffer AD, Chi D, Jabbour N. Impact of Patient Socioeconomic Disparities on Time to Tympanostomy Tube Placement. THE ANNALS OF OTOLOGY, RHINOLOGY, AND LARYNGOLOGY 2021:34894211015741. [PMID: 33978498 DOI: 10.1177/00034894211015741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Extensive literature exists documenting disparities in access to healthcare for patients with lower socioeconomic status (SES). The objective of this study was to examine access disparities and differences in surgical wait times in children with the most common pediatric otolaryngologic surgery, tympanostomy tubes (TT). METHODS A retrospective cohort study was performed at a tertiary children's hospital. Children ages <18 years who received a first set of tympanostomy tubes during 2015 were studied. Patient demographics and markers of SES including zip code, health insurance type, and appointment no-shows were recorded. Clinical measures included risk factors, symptoms, and age at presentation and first TT. RESULTS A total of 969 patients were included. Average age at surgery was 2.11 years. Almost 90% were white and 67.5% had private insurance. Patients with public insurance, ≥1 no-show appointment, and who lived in zip codes with the median income below the United States median had a longer period from otologic consult and preoperative clinic to TT, but no differences were seen in race. Those with public insurance had their surgery at an older age than those with private insurance (P < .001) and were more likely to have chronic otitis media with effusion as their indication for surgery (OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.2-2.5, P = .003). CONCLUSIONS Lower SES is associated with chronic otitis media with effusion and a longer wait time from otologic consult and preoperative clinic to TT placement. By being transparent in socioeconomic disparities, we can begin to expose systemic problems and move forward with interventions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L McCoy
- UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ronak Dixit
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - R Jun Lin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael A Belsky
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Amber D Shaffer
- UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - David Chi
- UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Noel Jabbour
- UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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6
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Karvonen KL, Baer RJ, Rogers EE, Steurer MA, Ryckman KK, Feuer SK, Anderson JG, Franck LS, Gano D, Petersen MA, Oltman SP, Chambers BD, Neuhaus J, Rand L, Jelliffe-Pawlowski LL, Pantell MS. Racial and ethnic disparities in outcomes through 1 year of life in infants born prematurely: a population based study in California. J Perinatol 2021; 41:220-231. [PMID: 33514879 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-021-00919-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate racial/ethnic differences in rehospitalization and mortality rates among premature infants over the first year of life. STUDY DESIGN A retrospective cohort study of infants born in California from 2011 to 2017 (n = 3,448,707) abstracted from a California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development database. Unadjusted Kaplan-Meier tables and logistic regression controlling for health and sociodemographic characteristics were used to predict outcomes by race/ethnicity. RESULTS Compared to White infants, Hispanic and Black early preterm infants were more likely to be readmitted; Black late/moderate preterm (LMPT) infants were more likely to be readmitted and to die after discharge; Hispanic and Black early preterm infants with BPD were more likely to be readmitted; Black LMPT infants with RDS were more likely to be readmitted and die after discharge. CONCLUSIONS Racial/ethnic disparities in readmission and mortality rates exist for premature infants across several co-morbidities. Future studies are needed to improve equitability of outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla L Karvonen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Rebecca J Baer
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Rogers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Martina A Steurer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kelli K Ryckman
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Sky K Feuer
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - James G Anderson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Linda S Franck
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Family Health Care Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dawn Gano
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mark A Petersen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Scott P Oltman
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Brittany D Chambers
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - John Neuhaus
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Larry Rand
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Laura L Jelliffe-Pawlowski
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Matthew S Pantell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,California Preterm Birth Initiative, San Francisco, CA, USA
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7
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Otogenic brain abscess is a well-recognized clinical condition that describes brain abscess secondary to an ear infection or mastoiditis. Current evidence remains limited on risk factors associated with mortality as most data are from case series. We aimed to 1) report the mortality rate among patients who did and did not receive mastoidectomy 2) identify factors associated with inpatient mortality. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Multi-institutional. PATIENTS We identified a cohort of patients for years 2008 to 2014 who in their inpatient hospitalization carried the diagnoses of both brain abscess and infectious ear disease. INTERVENTIONS Inpatient neurotology and neurosurgical procedures. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES A multivariable logistics regression model was built to identify the factors associated with inpatient mortality. RESULTS The final analysis included 252 patients, of which 84 (33.3%) underwent mastoidectomy. The rate of inpatient morbidity and mortality were 17.5% and 4.0%, respectively. The rate of mortality in patients without mastoidectomy versus those with mastoidectomy was 4.2% versus 3.6%, respectively (p > 0.99). The odds of inpatient mortality were significantly increased for every 10-year increase in age (odds ratio [OR] 2.73, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.39-7.01, p = 0.011) and for Black compared to White patients (OR: 45.81, 95% CI: 4.56-890.92, p = 0.003). CONCLUSION Older age and Black race were associated with increased odds of inpatient mortality and there were no significant differences in mortality between mastoidectomy cohorts. This research serves to generate further hypotheses for larger observational studies to investigate the association between sociodemographic factors and surgical variables with outcomes among this surgical population.
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8
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Cooper JN, Elmaraghy CA. Variation in Use of Tympanostomy Tubes: Impact of Privately Owned Ambulatory Surgery Centers. J Pediatr 2019; 204:183-190.e1. [PMID: 30268399 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2018.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether privately owned ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) increase pediatric tympanostomy tube use in their surrounding communities. STUDY DESIGN We studied children <5 years of age who underwent outpatient tympanostomy tube placement in New York or Florida in 2010-2014. Data came from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project State Ambulatory Surgery Databases, which include all outpatient surgeries in these states. Population characteristics came from the US Census' American Community Survey. Weighted conditionally autoregressive models were used to assess the association between the zip code-level proportion of tympanostomy tube procedures performed in privately owned ASCs and the rate of tympanostomy tube use. RESULTS In 2010-2014, 106 privately owned ASCs in Florida and 29 in New York performed tympanostomy tube placement in young children. After accounting for zip code-level urban/rural status, socioeconomic status (SES), and the proportion of residents of non-Hispanic white race, children residing in zip codes in the top tertile of privately owned ASC use in Florida had 52% greater tympanostomy tube use than children from zip codes in the bottom tertile (P < .001). In New York, high-SES zip codes with any use of privately owned ASCs had 2.6 times greater tympanostomy tube use than other high-SES zip codes (P < .001). This association was not present in low-SES areas. CONCLUSIONS The presence of privately owned ASCs is associated with increased tympanostomy tube use in young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer N Cooper
- Center for Surgical Outcomes Research and Center for Innovation in Pediatric Practice, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH.
| | - Charles A Elmaraghy
- Department of Otolaryngology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH; Department of Otolaryngology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
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9
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Chang JE, Shapiro NL, Bhattacharyya N. Do demographic disparities exist in the diagnosis and surgical management of otitis media? Laryngoscope 2018; 128:2898-2901. [DOI: 10.1002/lary.27396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Janice Erica Chang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery; University of California, Los Angeles, David Geffen School of Medicine; Los Angeles California
| | - Nina Lisbeth Shapiro
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery; University of California, Los Angeles, David Geffen School of Medicine; Los Angeles California
| | - Neil Bhattacharyya
- the Department of Otology and Laryngology; Harvard Medical School; Boston Massachusetts U.S.A
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10
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Prevalence and risk factors associated with non-attendance in neurodevelopmental follow-up clinic among infants with CHD. Cardiol Young 2018; 28:554-560. [PMID: 29357956 DOI: 10.1017/s1047951117002748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodevelopmental impairment is increasingly recognised as a potentially disabling outcome of CHD and formal evaluation is recommended for high-risk patients. However, data are lacking regarding the proportion of eligible children who actually receive neurodevelopmental evaluation, and barriers to follow-up are unclear. We examined the prevalence and risk factors associated with failure to attend neurodevelopmental follow-up clinic after infant cardiac surgery. METHODS Survivors of infant (<1 year) cardiac surgery at our institution (4/2011-3/2014) were included. Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics were evaluated in neurodevelopmental clinic attendees and non-attendees in univariate and multivariable analyses. RESULTS A total of 552 patients were included; median age at surgery was 2.4 months, 15% were premature, and 80% had moderate-severe CHD. Only 17% returned for neurodevelopmental evaluation, with a median age of 12.4 months. In univariate analysis, non-attendees were older at surgery, had lower surgical complexity, fewer non-cardiac anomalies, shorter hospital stay, and lived farther from the surgical center. Non-attendee families had lower income, and fewer were college graduates or had private insurance. In multivariable analysis, lack of private insurance remained independently associated with non-attendance (adjusted odds ratio 1.85, p=0.01), with a trend towards significance for distance from surgical center (adjusted odds ratio 2.86, p=0.054 for ⩾200 miles). CONCLUSIONS The majority of infants with CHD at high risk for neurodevelopmental dysfunction evaluated in this study are not receiving important neurodevelopmental evaluation. Efforts to remove financial/insurance barriers, increase access to neurodevelopmental clinics, and better delineate other barriers to receipt of neurodevelopmental evaluation are needed.
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11
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Jabbour J, Robey T, Cunningham MJ. Healthcare disparities in pediatric otolaryngology: A systematic review. Laryngoscope 2017; 128:1699-1713. [DOI: 10.1002/lary.26995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jad Jabbour
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences; Medical College of Wisconsin; Milwaukee Wisconsin U.S.A
| | - Thomas Robey
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences; Medical College of Wisconsin; Milwaukee Wisconsin U.S.A
- Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology; Children's Hospital of Wisconsin; Milwaukee Wisconsin U.S.A
| | - Michael J. Cunningham
- Department of Otology and Laryngology; Harvard Medical School; Boston Massachusetts U.S.A
- Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Enhancement; Boston Children's Hospital; Boston Massachusetts U.S.A
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12
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Daly KA, Rovers MM, Hoffman HJ, Uhari M, Casselbrant ML, Zielhuis G, Kvaerner KJ. 1. Epidemiology, Natural History, and Risk Factors. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 2016; 194:8-15. [PMID: 15700931 DOI: 10.1177/00034894051140s104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen A Daly
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
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13
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Pediatric otolaryngologic conditions: Racial and socioeconomic disparities in the United States. Laryngoscope 2016; 127:746-752. [DOI: 10.1002/lary.26240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Revised: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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14
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Nieman CL, Tunkel DE, Boss EF. Do race/ethnicity or socioeconomic status affect why we place ear tubes in children? Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2016; 88:98-103. [PMID: 27497394 PMCID: PMC4988399 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2016.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2016] [Revised: 06/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite recent concerns about potential overuse of tympanostomy tube (TT) placement to treat otitis media in children, utilization of this common procedure in the U.S. has been shown to be relatively less common among minority children. It is not known if the indications for TT differ by child race/ethnicity and/or socioeconomic status (SES). Our objective is to analyze the association of patient- and neighborhood-level demographics and SES with clinical indications for TT. METHODS We conducted a retrospective chart review of children who underwent TT at single urban academic tertiary pediatric care center in a 6-month period (8/2013-3/2014). Children with congenital anomalies or syndromic diagnoses were excluded (50/137 children, 36.5%). Children were grouped by primary TT indication, recurrent acute otitis media (RAOM) or chronic otitis media with effusion (OME). Group characteristics were compared using t-tests and chi-square analyses, and logistic regression was performed to assess the association between demographics and TT indication. RESULTS 87 children were included in this analysis (mean age = 2.8 years, 1-6 years). The most common indication for TT was RAOM (53%), and these children had a mean of 6 AOM episodes/year. Indications for TT varied significantly by the patient's neighborhood SES (median neighborhood income $70,969.09-RAOM vs $58, 844.95-OME, p-value = 0.009). Those undergoing TT for RAOM were less likely to live in a high-poverty neighborhood (OR = 0.36,p-value = 0.02), whereas children who underwent TT for OME were more likely to live in a high-poverty neighborhood. There was no significant difference in indication by race/ethnicity or insurance type. CONCLUSIONS In this population, TT indications differed by SES. Among children receiving tubes, those from high poverty areas were more likely than those from low poverty neighborhoods to receive tubes for the indication of OME as opposed to RAOM. This finding suggests that concerns for appropriate use of TT in the setting of RAOM may be specific to a more affluent population. Future prospective patient-centered research will evaluate cultural and economic influences for families pursuing TT placement, as well as factors considered by physicians who make surgical recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie L Nieman
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 601 N. Caroline St., 6th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - David E Tunkel
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 601 N. Caroline St., 6th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 601 N. Caroline St., 6th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Emily F Boss
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 601 N. Caroline St., 6th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 601 N. Caroline St., 6th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety and Quality, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 750 E Pratt St, 15th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA.
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15
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Previous research suggests that physicians may be less likely to diagnose otitis media (OM) and to prescribe broad-spectrum antibiotics for black versus nonblack children. Our objective was to determine whether race is associated with differences in OM diagnosis and antibiotic prescribing nationally. METHODS We examined OM visit rates during 2008 to 2010 for children ≤14 years old using the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey and National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. We compared OM visits between black and nonblack children, as percentages of all outpatient visits and visit rates per 1000. We compared antibiotic prescribing by race as the percentage of OM visits receiving narrow-spectrum (eg, amoxicillin) versus broader-spectrum antibiotics. We used multivariable logistic regression to examine whether race was independently associated with antibiotic selection for OM. RESULTS The percentage of all visits resulting in OM diagnosis was 30% lower in black children compared with others (7% vs 10%, P = .004). However, OM visits per 1000 population were not different between black and nonblack children (253 vs 321, P = .12). When diagnosed with OM during visits in which antibiotics were prescribed, black children were less likely to receive broad-spectrum antibiotics than nonblack children (42% vs 52%, P = .01). In multivariable analysis, black race was negatively associated with broad-spectrum antibiotic prescribing (adjusted odds ratio 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.40-0.86). CONCLUSIONS Differences in treatment choice for black children with OM may indicate race-based differences in physician practice patterns and parental preferences for children with OM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel J Shapiro
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Lauri A Hicks
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jeffrey S Gerber
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and
| | - Adam L Hersh
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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Ambrosio A, Brigger MT. Surgery for Otitis Media in a Universal Health Care Model: Socioeconomic Status and Race/Ethnicity Effects. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2014; 151:137-41. [PMID: 24627410 DOI: 10.1177/0194599814525570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES (1) To determine the association between socioeconomic status (SES), race/ethnicity, and other demographic risk factors in surgically managed otitis media within a model of universal health care. 2) To determine quality of life (QOL) outcomes of surgically managed otitis media in this model. SETTING Tertiary academic medical center. STUDY DESIGN Prospective cohort study. METHODS A prospective study was conducted between June 2011 and December 2012 with dependent children of military families. TRICARE provides equal access to care among all beneficiaries regardless of a wide range of annual incomes. Caretakers of children scheduled for bilateral myringotomy and tympanostomy tube (BMT) placement were administered a demographic survey, as well as OM-6 QOL instrument preoperatively and 6 weeks postoperatively. A control group who did not undergo BMT was also administered both the survey and OM-6 for comparison. RESULTS Two hundred forty patients were enrolled (120 surgical patients and 120 controls). Logistic regression demonstrated age younger than 6 years old (P < .001), day care attendance (P < .001), and non-Hispanic Caucasian race (P = .022) to be associated with surgery. Surgical QOL outcomes demonstrated a significant improvement in otitis media-6 (OM-6) scores after surgical management from 3.00 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.79-3.20) to 1.35 (95% CI, 1.22-1.47). CONCLUSION In a universal health care model serving more than 2 million children, previously reported proxies of low SES as well as minority race/ethnicity were not associated with surgically managed otitis media contrary to reported literature. Caucasian race, young age, and day care attendance were associated with surgery. Surgery improved QOL outcomes 6 weeks postoperatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Art Ambrosio
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Matthew T Brigger
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
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17
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Smith DF, Boss EF. Racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in the prevalence and treatment of otitis media in children in the United States. Laryngoscope 2011; 120:2306-12. [PMID: 20939071 DOI: 10.1002/lary.21090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in child health are prevalent, little is known about them within common pediatric otolaryngic problems. Otitis media (OM) is a frequent diagnosis in children, and tympanostomy tube placement is the most common surgical treatment for OM. We sought to identify current knowledge regarding racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in children with OM or tympanostomy tube placement. METHODS Qualitative systematic review of MEDLINE database for U.S.-based articles reporting on racial/ethnic or socioeconomic disparities in diagnosis or surgical treatment of OM over the last 30 years. RESULTS Of 428 abstracts identified, 15 met inclusion criteria. Articles addressed OM prevalence (12 of 15), risk factors (9 of 15), and tympanostomy tube insertion (4 of 15). Minority racial/ethnic groups studied were Black (11 of 15), Hispanic (6 of 15), American Indian/Alaska Native (2 of 15), and Asian (1 of 15). Predominant findings showed: 1) the most common identified risk factor for OM is socioeconomic status; 2) considerable variability exists concerning racial/ethnic disparities in disease prevalence; and 3) White children are more likely to undergo tympanostomy tube insertion compared to Black or Hispanic children. CONCLUSIONS Racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities exist for the prevalence and treatment of children with OM. Socioeconomic deprivation increases the risk of OM in children. Despite the frequency of tympanostomy tube insertion in children in the United States, few studies have addressed inequalities in access or utilization of surgical therapy. Given the changing healthcare climate and the social and economic impact of OM in children, further investigation of racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities targeting access to surgical treatment of OM should take precedence in health services research.
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Affiliation(s)
- David F Smith
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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18
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Abstract
Objectives. To determine the difference between children with private and public insurance at the time of referral to a pediatric otolaryngologist. Study Design. Prospective study. Setting. Tertiary care hospital. Subjects and Methods. Data relating to the severity of a patient’s otitis media (number of infections, doctor visits, antibiotic courses) were collected by phone interview. All patients referred to a pediatric otolaryngologist at an urban tertiary care hospital over a 5-month period were included. Results. One hundred eighty-three children were studied: 87 consecutive patients in the private third-party insurance group (PIN) and 96 patients in the state-based Medicaid insurance group (PA). During the 6 months prior to referral, children in the PIN group had a median 4 acute otitis media infections with 5 courses of oral antibiotics and 6 primary care visits compared to 3 infections with 3 courses of antibiotics and 4 primary care visits for the PA group ( P = .0009, P ≤ .0001, P = .0003, respectively). For recurrent acute otitis media, the PA group had a significantly longer time with disease prior to referral than the PIN group ( P = .0478). Conclusion. Children in this metropolitan area referred for tympanostomy tube placement with PIN are younger, have more episodes of acute otitis media, receive more antibiotic courses, and have more primary care visits in the 6 months prior to referral than their PA counterparts. Additional research is required to determine why these differences exist, especially in light of ongoing changes to the health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sundip Patel
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - James W. Schroeder
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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19
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Bhattacharyya N, Shapiro NL, Vakharia KT. Influence of race and ethnicity on access to care among children with frequent ear infections. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2010; 143:691-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.otohns.2010.06.911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2010] [Revised: 06/01/2010] [Accepted: 06/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Determine the impact of racial/ethnic disparities on access to care for children with frequent ear infections (FEI). Identify disparities to target for intervention. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of national database. SETTING Academic medical center. SUBJECTS AND METHODS The National Health Interview Survey (1997 to 2006) was utilized to identify children with FEI (defined as three or more ear infections in the preceding year). Age, sex, race/ethnicity, income level, and insurance status were extracted. Access to care was measured by ability to afford medical care and prescription medications, specialist visitation, and emergency department visits. Multivariate analysis determined the influence of demographic variables on the ability to access health care resources. RESULTS An annualized population of 4.65 ± 0.08 million children reported FEI. Overall, 3.7 percent could not afford care, 5.6 percent could not afford prescriptions, and only 25.8 percent saw a specialist. A larger percentage of the black (42.7%) and Hispanic children (34.5%) with FEI were below the poverty level, versus white children (12.4%; P < 0.001); 18.2 percent of Hispanic children were uninsured, versus 6.5 percent of white children ( P < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, children with FEI that were black or Hispanic had increased odds ratios relative to white children for 1) not being able to afford prescription medications (odds ratios [OR] 1.76 and 1.47, respectively; P < 0.002); 2) not being able to see a specialist (OR 1.62 and 1.86, respectively; P < 0.001); and 3) visiting the emergency department (OR 2.50 and 1.32, respectively; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Racial/ethnic disparities among children with FEI significantly influence health care resource access and utilization. These disparities should be targeted for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Bhattacharyya
- From the Division of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Department of Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Nina L. Shapiro
- and the Division of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Kalpesh T. Vakharia
- and the Department of Otology and Laryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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20
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Vakharia KT, Shapiro NL, Bhattacharyya N. Demographic disparities among children with frequent ear infections in the United States. Laryngoscope 2010; 120:1667-70. [PMID: 20564719 DOI: 10.1002/lary.20961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS To evaluate current racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in the prevalence of frequent ear infections (FEI) among children in the United States. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS The National Health Interview Survey (years 1997 to 2006) was utilized to evaluate children who were reported by their parent/guardian to have "3 or more ear infections during the past 12 months." Demographic variables evaluated included age, sex, race/ethnicity, income level, and insurance status. Multivariate analyses determined the influence of demographic variables on the prevalence of FEI in children. RESULTS Among an annualized population of 72.6 million children (average age, 8.55 +/- 0.19 years), 4.65 +/- 0.07 million children (6.6 +/- 0.1%) reported FEI. FEI was more commonly reported in white (7.0 +/- 0.1%) and Hispanic (6.2 +/- 0.2%) than in black (5.0 +/- 0.2%) and other race/ethnic groups (4.5 +/- 0.3%, P < .001). A larger portion of children in households below the poverty level reported FEI (8.0 +/- 0.3%, P < .001). Of children with no health insurance 5.4 +/- 0.3% had FEI. On multivariate analysis, black, Hispanic and other race/ethnic group had decreased odds ratio for FEI relative to white children (odds ratios: 0.63, 0.76, and 0.60, respectively, all P < .001). Income below poverty level also predicted FEI (odds ratio, 1.322, P < .001), whereas lack of insurance coverage did not (P = .181). CONCLUSIONS Despite increasing awareness, there are still notable racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities among children with FEI. Further efforts to eliminate these disparities and improve the care of children with FEI are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalpesh T Vakharia
- Department of Otology and Laryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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21
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Singleton RJ, Wirsing EA, Haberling DL, Christensen KY, Paddock CD, Hilinski JA, Stoll BJ, Holman RC. Risk factors for lower respiratory tract infection death among infants in the United States, 1999-2004. Pediatrics 2009; 124:e768-76. [PMID: 19786437 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2009-0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe maternal and birth-related risk factors associated with lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) deaths among infants. METHODS Records for infants with LRTI as a cause of death were examined by using the linked birth/infant death database for 1999-2004. Singleton infants dying with LRTI and a random sample of surviving singleton infants were compared for selected characteristics. RESULTS A total of 5420 LRTI-associated infant deaths were documented in the United States during 1999-2004, for an LRTI-associated infant mortality rate of 22.3 per 100,000 live births. Rates varied according to race; the rate for American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) infants was highest (53.2), followed by black (44.1), white (18.7), and Asian/Pacific Islander infants (12.3). Singleton infants with low birth weight (<2500 g) were at increased risk of dying with LRTI after controlling for other characteristics, especially black infants. Both AI/AN and black infants born with a birth weight of > or =2500 g were more likely to have died with LRTI than other infants of the same birth weight. Other risk factors associated with LRTI infant death included male gender, the third or more live birth, an Apgar score of <8, unmarried mother, mother with <12 years of education, mother <25 years of age, and mother using tobacco during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Low birth weight was associated with markedly increased risk for LRTI-associated death among all of the racial groups. Among infants with a birth weight of > or =2500 g, AI/AN and black infants were at higher risk of LRTI-associated death, even after controlling for maternal and birth-related factors. Additional studies and strategies should focus on the prevention of maternal and birth-related risk factors for postneonatal LRTI and on identifying additional risk factors that contribute to elevated mortality among AI/AN and black infants.
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22
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Wooten KG, Janssen A, Smith PJ, Pickering LK. Associations between childhood vaccination status and medical practice characteristics among white, black, and Hispanic children. J Natl Med Assoc 2009; 101:229-35. [PMID: 19331254 DOI: 10.1016/s0027-9684(15)30850-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of the study was to identify and understand associations between characteristics of medical practices where immunization services are delivered and vaccination status among white, black, and Hispanic children aged less than 19 months. METHODS Eighty pediatric and family physicians participated in a physician-patient encounters survey that included 684 children aged less than 19 months who received at least 1 vaccination during a randomly selected week in 2003. RESULTS According to physicians' responses to survey questions, white children who used large medical practices, and black and Hispanic children who used practices, all enrolled in the Vaccine for Children (VFC) program, were more likely to receive vaccines at the recommended age, but Hispanic children who used large Medicaid practices were less likely to receive them at the recommended age. White children who used medical practices that had a large minority patient population were more likely to have completely missed whole series of vaccines. CONCLUSION Medical practice characteristics varied in importance as determinants of childhood vaccination among white, black, and Hispanic children. Understanding how type of medical practice and other medical practice characteristics may impact the receipt of timely preventive health services is vital to improving health care access in underserved populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen G Wooten
- Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30030, USA.
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23
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Skinner AC, Mayer ML. Effects of insurance status on children's access to specialty care: a systematic review of the literature. BMC Health Serv Res 2007; 7:194. [PMID: 18045482 PMCID: PMC2222624 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-7-194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2006] [Accepted: 11/28/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The current climate of rising health care costs has led many health insurance programs to limit benefits, which may be problematic for children needing specialty care. Findings from pediatric primary care may not transfer to pediatric specialty care because pediatric specialists are often located in academic medical centers where institutional rules determine accepted insurance. Furthermore, coverage for pediatric specialty care may vary more widely due to systematic differences in inclusion on preferred provider lists, lack of availability in staff model HMOs, and requirements for referral. Our objective was to review the literature on the effects of insurance status on children's access to specialty care. Methods We conducted a systematic review of original research published between January 1, 1992 and July 31, 2006. Searches were performed using Pubmed. Results Of 30 articles identified, the majority use number of specialty visits or referrals to measure access. Uninsured children have poorer access to specialty care than insured children. Children with public coverage have better access to specialty care than uninsured children, but poorer access compared to privately insured children. Findings on the effects of managed care are mixed. Conclusion Insurance coverage is clearly an important factor in children's access to specialty care. However, we cannot determine the structure of insurance that leads to the best use of appropriate, quality care by children. Research about specific characteristics of health plans and effects on health outcomes is needed to determine a structure of insurance coverage that provides optimal access to specialty care for children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asheley Cockrell Skinner
- Department of Health Policy and Administration, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
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Morris BH, Gard CC, Kennedy K. Rehospitalization of extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants: are there racial/ethnic disparities? J Perinatol 2005; 25:656-63. [PMID: 16107873 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jp.7211361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premature infants are at increased risk for rehospitalization after discharge from the hospital. Racial disparities are known to exist in pediatric health care. OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether racial disparities exist in the proportion of extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants rehospitalized prior to 18 months corrected age and the causes of rehospitalization. METHODS The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network database was used to identify all ELBW infants (n=2446) who were born between November 1, 1998 and May 31, 2000 at the 14 participating centers and discharged alive (n=1591). Infants were seen at 18-22 months corrected age for followup. Data related to maternal variables, race, socioeconomic status, medical morbidities, insurance, and rehospitalizations were recorded from the medical record and parent interview. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the relationship of race/ethnicity and rehospitalization while controlling for gestational age, gender, center, maternal education, family income, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), necrotizing enterocolitis, ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) prophylaxis, and insurance type. RESULTS In all, 1405 (88%) infants were evaluated at followup. The racial distribution of infants admitted, discharged, seen at followup, and rehospitalized were similar. Rehospitalization occurred at least once in 49% of the infants. In the logistic regression analyses, race was not a significant predictor for rehospitalization. The odds of rehospitalization were related to low family income, type of insurance, BPD, VP shunt, RSV prophylaxis, and center. CONCLUSION Race was not a predominant variable in the risk of rehospitalization in this cohort of ELBW infants. Medical morbidities and low family income appear to be the major risk factors for rehospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda H Morris
- Department of Paediatrics, Center for Clinical Research and Evidence Based Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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25
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Vernacchio L, Lesko SM, Vezina RM, Corwin MJ, Hunt CE, Hoffman HJ, Mitchell AA. Racial/ethnic disparities in the diagnosis of otitis media in infancy. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2004; 68:795-804. [PMID: 15126021 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2004.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2003] [Revised: 01/13/2004] [Accepted: 01/17/2004] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Otitis media (OM) is an extremely common pediatric diagnosis. Several risk factors have been associated with OM, but the relationship between OM and race/ethnicity remains controversial. We sought to define the relationship between OM diagnosis and race/ethnicity in infants. METHODS By multivariable logistic regression, we evaluated the association between OM diagnosis and race/ethnicity in 11,349 non-low-birthweight infants who were participants in a prospective cohort study of infant care practices. RESULTS As in previous studies, breastfeeding was associated with a decreased risk of OM diagnosis while other factors were independently associated with a substantially increased risk of OM diagnosis: out-of-home daycare, multiple children living in the home, and mother's multiparity. Daycare was associated with a "dose effect" in that the risk of OM diagnosis increased with an increasing number of children in the daycare. While the crude analysis suggested little relation of OM diagnosis and race/ethnicity, the association was confounded by several covariates including maternal marital status, number of children living in the home, breastfeeding status, and maternal age. After adjustment for relevant confounders, Black (OR 0.74; 95% CI 0.61-0.89) and Asian infants (OR 0.77; 95% CI 0.57-1.0]) were less likely to be diagnosed with OM than White infants. CONCLUSIONS This large prospective study confirms previous risk factors for OM and demonstrates a strong "dose effect" of the size of daycare centers on OM. The study also demonstrates that the association between race/ethnicity and OM diagnosis is confounded by social factors. After adjusting for such factors, Black and Asian infants are less likely to be diagnosed with OM than White infants. The reason for this racial disparity remains unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Vernacchio
- Slone Epidemiology Center, Boston University, 1010 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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26
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Abstract
Race has been identified as a risk factor for otitis media (OM) in several studies. To further explore this, a database of visits with age at visit < 24 months was constructed from data captured electronically at a public health clinic in North Carolina between July 1994 and December 1996. Among 3,108 children with at least 1 visit, 45% were African-American, 26% were Latino, and 29% were White. There were no differences among the groups in episodes of OM per child or ratio of OM episodes to total visits per child. A cohort of 166 children with follow-up throughout their first 2 years of life was identified. In this group, being uninsured or having exposure to out-of-home child care was associated with an increased risk of OM. Race/ethnicity had no association with frequency of OM as measured by episodes per child, proportion with > or = 1 episode, or proportion with > or = 3 episodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles R Woods
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157, USA
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