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Davis RA, Lookabaugh M, Christnacht K, Stegman R. Strategies to Reduce Frequent Emergency Department Use among Persons Experiencing Homelessness with Mental Health Conditions: a Scoping Review. J Urban Health 2024:10.1007/s11524-024-00917-0. [PMID: 39269664 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-024-00917-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
The USA has some of the highest utilization rates of the Emergency Department (ED) worldwide, leading to increased healthcare costs, constrained resources, and fragmented care. Many of the highest ED utilizers are persons experiencing homelessness (PEH) and those with mental health conditions, with even higher use by those with comorbid social challenges. This study reviewed the literature assessing interventional approaches in the ED to minimize the burden of ED utilization by PEH with associated mental health conditions. We first conducted an informal literature review of high ED utilizers and their most common presenting symptoms. We then conducted a scoping review of articles according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines; we used PubMed and Web of Science databases as well as Google Scholar. We screened the titles and abstracts of studies that evaluated programs that aimed to reduce ED usage by patients with mental illness who were also experiencing homelessness. Of the 1574 titles and abstracts screened, 49 full texts were examined for eligibility. Of those, 35 articles were excluded for a final count of 14 included studies. We found that the studies fell under two main interventional categories: housing support and care management. There were various approaches to reduce ED visits from PEH with mental illness around the world. Overall, these studies found varying degrees of success in reducing ED visits for both housing intervention and care management strategies. Comparison of these studies reveals that the success of related strategies like housing support often have different outcomes which can be attributed to the differences between the populations studied, previously available community resources, and other psychosocial factors affecting study participants. Overall, the most successful studies found that a tailored approach that addresses the unique needs of participants had the greatest impact on reducing ED visits and hospitalizations. Further research is needed to determine the best strategies for specific populations and how to promote health equity among PEH with associated mental health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah A Davis
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, 13001 E 17 Pl, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Max Lookabaugh
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, 13001 E 17 Pl, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kimberly Christnacht
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, 13001 E 17 Pl, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Robert Stegman
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, 13001 E 17 Pl, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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2
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Nummedal MA, King S, Uleberg O, Pedersen SA, Bjørnsen LP. Non-emergency department (ED) interventions to reduce ED utilization: a scoping review. BMC Emerg Med 2024; 24:117. [PMID: 38997631 PMCID: PMC11242019 DOI: 10.1186/s12873-024-01028-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency department (ED) crowding is a global burden. Interventions to reduce ED utilization have been widely discussed in the literature, but previous reviews have mainly focused on specific interventions or patient groups within the EDs. The purpose of this scoping review was to identify, summarize, and categorize the various types of non-ED-based interventions designed to reduce unnecessary visits to EDs. METHODS This scoping review followed the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis and the PRISMA-SCR checklist. A comprehensive structured literature search was performed in the databases MEDLINE and Embase from 2008 to March 2024. The inclusion criteria covered studies reporting on interventions outside the ED that aimed to reduce ED visits. Two reviewers independently screened the records and categorized the included articles by intervention type, location, and population. RESULTS Among the 15,324 screened records, we included 210 studies, comprising 183 intervention studies and 27 systematic reviews. In the primary studies, care coordination/case management or other care programs were the most commonly examined out of 15 different intervention categories. The majority of interventions took place in clinics or medical centers, in patients' homes, followed by hospitals and primary care settings - and targeted patients with specific medical conditions. CONCLUSION A large number of studies have been published investigating interventions to mitigate the influx of patients to EDs. Many of these targeted patients with specific medical conditions, frequent users and high-risk patients. Further research is needed to address other high prevalent groups in the ED - including older adults and mental health patients (who are ill but may not need the ED). There is also room for further research on new interventions to reduce ED utilization in low-acuity patients and in the general patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Målfrid A Nummedal
- Trondheim Emergency Department Research Group (TEDRG), Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Sarah King
- Trondheim Emergency Department Research Group (TEDRG), Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Oddvar Uleberg
- Trondheim Emergency Department Research Group (TEDRG), Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Clinic of Emergency Medicine and Prehospital Care, St. Olav's Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Research and Development, Division of Emergencies and Critical Care, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sindre A Pedersen
- The Medicine and Health Library, Library Section for Research Support, Data and Analysis, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Lars Petter Bjørnsen
- Trondheim Emergency Department Research Group (TEDRG), Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Clinic of Emergency Medicine and Prehospital Care, St. Olav's Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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Gabet M, Armoon B, Meng X, Fleury MJ. Effectiveness of emergency department based interventions for frequent users with mental health issues: A systematic review. Am J Emerg Med 2023; 74:1-8. [PMID: 37717467 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2023.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Frequent emergency department (ED) users with mental health issues are particularly vulnerable patients, who often receive insufficient or inadequate outpatient care. This systematic review identified and evaluated studies on ED-based interventions to reduce acute care use by this population, while improving outpatient service use and patient outcomes. Searches were conducted in five databases for studies published between January 1, 2000, and April 30, 2022. Eligibility criteria included: patients with mental health issues who made 2+ ED visits in the previous 6 months or were high ED users (3+ visits/year), and who received ED-based interventions to reduce ED use. The review included 12 studies of 11,082 articles screened. Four intervention groups were identified: care plan (n = 4), case management (n = 4), peer-support (n = 2) and brief interventions (n = 2). The definitions of frequent users varied considerably, while the quality assessment rated studies from moderate to good and risk of bias from low to high. Eight studies used pre-post design, and four were randomized controlled trials. Ten studies assessed outcomes related to use of other services than ED, mainly hospitalizations, while five assessed patients' clinical conditions and three, social conditions (e.g., housing status). This review revealed that case management and care plan interventions, based in ED, decrease ED use among frequent users, while case management also showed promising results for outpatient service use and clinical and social outcomes. Thus, the results support continued deployment of intensive ED-based interventions for frequent ED users with mental health issues although firm conclusions regarding the effectiveness of these interventions, particularly outcomes related to services other than ED, require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Gabet
- Division of Mental Health & Society, Douglas Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, Canada; Département de Gestion, Evaluation et Politique de Santé, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Bahram Armoon
- Division of Mental Health & Society, Douglas Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Xiangfei Meng
- Division of Mental Health & Society, Douglas Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Marie-Josée Fleury
- Division of Mental Health & Society, Douglas Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, Canada; Département de Gestion, Evaluation et Politique de Santé, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
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Cené CW, Viswanathan M, Fichtenberg CM, Sathe NA, Kennedy SM, Gottlieb LM, Cartier Y, Peek ME. Racial Health Equity and Social Needs Interventions: A Review of a Scoping Review. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2250654. [PMID: 36656582 PMCID: PMC9857687 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.50654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Social needs interventions aim to improve health outcomes and mitigate inequities by addressing health-related social needs, such as lack of transportation or food insecurity. However, it is not clear whether these studies are reducing racial or ethnic inequities. Objective To understand how studies of interventions addressing social needs among multiracial or multiethnic populations conceptualize and analyze differential intervention outcomes by race or ethnicity. Evidence Review Sources included a scoping review of systematic searches of PubMed and the Cochrane Library from January 1, 1995, through November 29, 2021, expert suggestions, and hand searches of key citations. Eligible studies evaluated interventions addressing social needs; reported behavioral, health, or utilization outcomes or harms; and were conducted in multiracial or multiethnic populations. Two reviewers independently assessed titles, abstracts, and full text for inclusion. The team developed a framework to assess whether the study was "conceptually thoughtful" for understanding root causes of racial health inequities (ie, noted that race or ethnicity are markers of exposure to racism) and whether analyses were "analytically informative" for advancing racial health equity research (ie, examined differential intervention impacts by race or ethnicity). Findings Of 152 studies conducted in multiracial or multiethnic populations, 44 studies included race or ethnicity in their analyses; of these, only 4 (9%) were conceptually thoughtful. Twenty-one studies (14%) were analytically informative. Seven of 21 analytically informative studies reported differences in outcomes by race or ethnicity, whereas 14 found no differences. Among the 7 that found differential outcomes, 4 found the interventions were associated with improved outcomes for minoritized racial or ethnic populations or reduced inequities between minoritized and White populations. No studies were powered to detect differences. Conclusions and Relevance In this review of a scoping review, studies of social needs interventions in multiracial or multiethnic populations were rarely conceptually thoughtful for understanding root causes of racial health inequities and infrequently conducted informative analyses on intervention effectiveness by race or ethnicity. Future work should use a theoretically sound conceptualization of how race (as a proxy for racism) affects social drivers of health and use this understanding to ensure social needs interventions benefit minoritized racial and ethnic groups facing social and structural barriers to health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal W. Cené
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego Health, San Diego
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego
| | - Meera Viswanathan
- RTI International–University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Evidence-based Practice Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park
| | - Caroline M. Fichtenberg
- University of California, San Francisco Social Intervention Research and Evaluation Network, San Francisco
- School of Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Center for Health and Community, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Nila A. Sathe
- RTI International–University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Evidence-based Practice Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park
| | - Sara M. Kennedy
- RTI International–University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Evidence-based Practice Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park
| | - Laura M. Gottlieb
- School of Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Center for Health and Community, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Yuri Cartier
- University of California, San Francisco Social Intervention Research and Evaluation Network, San Francisco
| | - Monica E. Peek
- Section of General Internal Medicine, MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, Center for the Study of Race, Politics and Culture, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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Liu M, Pridham KF, Jenkinson J, Nisenbaum R, Richard L, Pedersen C, Brown R, Virani S, Ellerington F, Ranieri A, Dada O, To M, Fabreau G, McBrien K, Stergiopoulos V, Palepu A, Hwang S. Navigator programme for hospitalised adults experiencing homelessness: protocol for a pragmatic randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e065688. [PMID: 36517099 PMCID: PMC9756200 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065688] [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] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION People experiencing homelessness suffer from poor outcomes after hospitalisation due to systemic barriers to care, suboptimal transitions of care, and intersecting health and social burdens. Case management programmes have been shown to improve housing stability, but their effects on broad posthospital outcomes in this population have not been rigorously evaluated. The Navigator Programme is a Critical Time Intervention case management programme that was developed to help homeless patients with their postdischarge needs and to link them with community-based health and social services. This randomised controlled trial examines the impact of the Navigator Programme on posthospital outcomes among adults experiencing homelessness. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a pragmatic randomised controlled trial testing the effectiveness of the Navigator Programme at an urban academic teaching hospital and an urban community teaching hospital in Toronto, Canada. Six hundred and forty adults experiencing homelessness who are admitted to the hospital will be randomised to receive support from a Homeless Outreach Counsellor for 90 days after hospital discharge or to usual care. The primary outcome is follow-up with a primary care provider (physician or nurse practitioner) within 14 days of hospital discharge. Secondary outcomes include postdischarge mortality or readmission, number of days in hospital, number of emergency department visits, self-reported care transition quality, and difficulties meeting subsistence needs. Quantitative outcomes are being collected over a 180-day period through linked patient-reported and administrative health data. A parallel mixed-methods process evaluation will be conducted to explore intervention context, implementation and mechanisms of impact. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval was obtained from the Unity Health Toronto Research Ethics Board. Participants will be required to provide written informed consent. Results of the main trial and process evaluation will be reported in peer-reviewed journals and shared with hospital leadership, community partners and policy makers. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04961762.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Liu
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Jesse Jenkinson
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rosane Nisenbaum
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Biostatistics, University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lucie Richard
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cheryl Pedersen
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rebecca Brown
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sareeha Virani
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fred Ellerington
- Division of General Internal Medicine, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alyssa Ranieri
- Division of General Internal Medicine, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Oluwagbenga Dada
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matthew To
- Division of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gabriel Fabreau
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kerry McBrien
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Vicky Stergiopoulos
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anita Palepu
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Stephen Hwang
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of General Internal Medicine, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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6
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Luchenski SA, Dawes J, Aldridge RW, Stevenson F, Tariq S, Hewett N, Hayward AC. Hospital-based preventative interventions for people experiencing homelessness in high-income countries: A systematic review. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 54:101657. [PMID: 36311895 PMCID: PMC9597099 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People experiencing homelessness have significant unmet needs and high rates of unplanned care. We aimed to describe preventative interventions, defined in their broadest sense, for people experiencing homelessness in a hospital context. Secondary aims included mapping outcomes and assessing intervention effectiveness. METHODS We searched online databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, HMIC, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane Library) from 1999-2019 and conducted backward and forward citation searches to 31 December 2020 (PROSPERO CRD42019154036). We included quantitative studies in emergency and inpatient settings measuring health or social outcomes for adults experiencing homelessness in high income countries. We assessed rigour using the "Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies" and summarised findings using descriptive quantitative methods, a binomial test, a Harvest Plot, and narrative synthesis. We used PRISMA and SWiM reporting guidelines. FINDINGS Twenty-eight studies identified eight intervention types: care coordination (n=18); advocacy, support, and outreach (n=13); social welfare assistance (n=13); discharge planning (n=12); homelessness identification (n=6); psychological therapy and treatment (n=6); infectious disease prevention (n=5); and screening, treatment, and referrals (n=5). The evidence strength was weak (n=16) to moderate (n=10), with two high quality randomised controlled trials. We identified six outcome categories with potential benefits observed for psychosocial outcomes, including housing (11/13 studies, 95%CI=54.6-98.1%, p=0.023), healthcare use (14/17, 56.6-96.2%, p=0.013), and healthcare costs (8/8, 63.1-100%, p=0.008). Benefits were less likely for health outcomes (4/5, 28.3-99.5%, p=0.375), integration with onward care (2/4, 6.8-93.2%, p=1.000), and feasibility/acceptability (5/6, 35.9-99.6%, p=0.219), but confidence intervals were very wide. We observed no harms. Most studies showing potential benefits were multi-component interventions. INTERPRETATION Hospital-based preventative interventions for people experiencing homelessness are potentially beneficial, but more rigorous research is needed. In the context of high needs and extreme inequities, policymakers and healthcare providers may consider implementing multi-component preventative interventions. FUNDING SL is supported by an NIHR Clinical Doctoral Research Fellowship (ICA-CDRF-2016-02-042). JD is supported by an NIHR School of Public Health Research Pre-doctoral Fellowship (NU-004252). RWA is supported by a Wellcome Clinical Research Career Development Fellowship (206602).
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena A. Luchenski
- Collaborative Centre for Inclusion Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Healthcare, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
- Corresponding author.
| | - Joanna Dawes
- Collaborative Centre for Inclusion Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Healthcare, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Robert W. Aldridge
- Centre for Public Health Data Science, Institute for Health Informatics, University College London, 255 Euston Road, London NW1 2DA, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Stevenson
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Healthcare, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, Rowland Hill Street, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Shema Tariq
- Centre for Clinical Research in Infection and Sexual Health, Institute for Global Health, University College London, Mortimer Market Centre, off Capper Street, London WC1E 6JB, United Kingdom
| | - Nigel Hewett
- Pathway, 4th Floor, East, 250 Euston Rd, London NW1 2PG, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew C. Hayward
- Collaborative Centre for Inclusion Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Healthcare, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
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Fazio D, Zuiderveen S, Guyet D, Reid A, Lalane M, McCormack RP, Wall SP, Shelley D, Mijanovich T, Shinn M, Doran KM. ED-Home: Pilot feasibility study of a targeted homelessness prevention intervention for emergency department patients with drug or unhealthy alcohol use. Acad Emerg Med 2022; 29:1453-1465. [PMID: 36268815 PMCID: PMC10440066 DOI: 10.1111/acem.14610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Housing insecurity is prevalent among emergency department (ED) patients. Despite a surge of interest in screening for patients' social needs including housing insecurity, little research has examined ED social needs interventions. We worked together with government and community partners to develop and pilot test a homelessness prevention intervention targeted to ED patients with drug or unhealthy alcohol use. METHODS We approached randomly sampled patients at an urban public hospital ED, May to August 2019. Adult patients were eligible if they were medically stable, not incarcerated, spoke English, had unhealthy alcohol or any drug use, and were not currently homeless but screened positive for risk of future homelessness using a previously developed risk screening tool. Participants received a three-part intervention: (1) brief counseling and referral to treatment for substance use delivered through a preexisting ED program; (2) referral to Homebase, an evidence-based community homelessness prevention program; and (3) up to three troubleshooting phone calls by study staff. Participants completed surveys at baseline and 6 months. RESULTS Of 2183 patients screened, 51 were eligible and 40 (78.4%) participated; one later withdrew, leaving 39 participants. Participants were diverse in age, gender, race, and ethnicity. Of the 32 participants reached at 6 months, most said it was very or extremely helpful to talk to someone about their housing situation (n = 23, 71.9%) at the baseline ED visit. Thirteen (40.6%) said their housing situation had improved in the past 6 months and 16 (50.0%) said it had not changed. Twenty participants (62.5%) had made contact with a Homebase office. Participants shared ideas of how to improve the intervention. CONCLUSIONS This pilot intervention was feasible and well received by participants though it required a large amount of screening to identify potentially eligible patients. Our findings will inform a larger future trial and may be informative for others seeking to develop similar interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Fazio
- Department of Emergency Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sara Zuiderveen
- Homelessness Prevention Administration, NYC Human Resources Administration, New York, New York, USA
| | - Dana Guyet
- Homelessness Prevention Administration, NYC Human Resources Administration, New York, New York, USA
| | - Andrea Reid
- Homelessness Prevention Administration, NYC Human Resources Administration, New York, New York, USA
| | - Monique Lalane
- Bellevue Hospital, NYC Health + Hospitals, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ryan P McCormack
- Department of Emergency Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Stephen P Wall
- Department of Emergency Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Donna Shelley
- Department of Public Health Policy and Management, NYU School of Global Public Health, New York, New York, USA
- Global Center for Implementation Science and Practice, NYU School of Global Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Tod Mijanovich
- Department of Applied Statistics, Social Sciences, and Humanities, NYU Steinhardt School, New York, New York, USA
| | - Marybeth Shinn
- Department of Human and Organizational Development, Peabody College, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Kelly M Doran
- Department of Emergency Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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8
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Hao H, Garfield M, Purao S. The Determinants of Length of Homeless Shelter Stays: Evidence-Based Regression Analyses. Int J Public Health 2022; 66:1604273. [PMID: 35153647 PMCID: PMC8833310 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2021.1604273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To identify determinants that contribute to the length of homeless shelter stay. Methods: We utilized a unique dataset from the Homeless Management Information Systems from Boston, Massachusetts, United States, which contains 44,197 shelter stays for 17,070 adults between Jan. 2014 and May 2018. Results: Our statistical analyses and regression model analyses show that factors that contribute to the length of a homeless shelter stay include being female, senior, disability, being Hispanic, or being Asian or Black African. A significant fraction of homeless shelter stays (76%) are experienced by individuals with at least one of three disabilities: physical disability, mental health issues, or substance use disorder. Recidivism also contributes to longer homeless shelter stays. Conclusion: The results suggest possible program and policy implications. Several factors that contribute to longer homeless shelter stay, such as gender, age, disability, race, and ethnicity, may have funding implications. Age may point to the need for early interventions. Disability is developmental and may benefit from treatment and intervention. Finally, we find that length of stay and recidivism are not independent, and may form a vicious cycle that requires additional investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haijing Hao
- Department of Computer Information Systems, Bentley University, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Monica Garfield
- Department of Computer Information Systems, Bentley University, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Sandeep Purao
- Department of Information and Process Management, Bentley University, Waltham, MA, United States
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9
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Pidgeon H, McKinney D, Tan-Creevy J, Shah M, Ansari S, Gottlieb M. Thinking Beyond the Emergency Department: Addressing Homelessness in Residency Education. Ann Emerg Med 2021; 79:397-403. [PMID: 34607743 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2021.07.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Harrison Pidgeon
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL.
| | - Dennis McKinney
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Jeny Tan-Creevy
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Meeta Shah
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Sobia Ansari
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Michael Gottlieb
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
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10
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Blackwood R, Lynskey M, Drummond C. Prevalence and patterns of hospital use for people with frequent alcohol-related hospital admissions, compared to non-alcohol and non-frequent admissions: a cohort study using routine administrative hospital data. Addiction 2021; 116:1700-1708. [PMID: 33245603 DOI: 10.1111/add.15354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
AIMS This study compared prevalence and hospital use among individuals frequently admitted to hospital in England with wholly attributable alcohol-related diagnoses (WAAD), known as alcohol-related frequent attenders (ARFAs), with those of non-alcohol frequent attenders (NAFAs), non-frequent alcohol attenders (ARNFAs) and non-alcohol non-frequent attenders (NANFAs). DESIGN Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses of 5 years of England's Hospital Episode Statistics (HES). SETTING Hospital inpatients in England, UK, 2011-16. PARTICIPANTS Two cohorts (2011/12 = 489 580/7 654 944 patients and 2015/16 = 490 384/7 660 108 patients) were selected from all adult patients aged ≥ 18 years, treated in English hospitals between 1 April 2011 and 31 March 2016. Patients were categorized as having alcohol-related admissions if diagnoses included a WAAD (ICD-10 classification, WHO, 2016) and frequent admissions if they had more than three hospital admissions during a single HES year. MEASUREMENTS Prevalence of ARFA, number of admissions (spells), occupied bed-days (OBDs), average length of stay (ALOS) and total admission costs over 5 years were compared among ARFAs, ARNFAs, NAFAs and NANFAs. FINDINGS On average, 0.7% of people admitted to hospital per annum in England 2011-15 were ARFAs and more than a quarter of all frequent attenders (for all causes) to hospitals had a wholly attributable alcohol diagnosis on admission. ARFAs had longer ALOS than the other patient groups [5.55 days versus ARNFA 4.7, NAFA 3.39 and NANFA 2.57 days, F = 1088.37 (3, 488 570, P < 0.001)] in the 2015/16 index year; but fewer spells than NAFAs [5.38 ARFAs versus 5.98 NAFAs, F = 20 536.25 (3, 490 380) P < 0.001]. The ARFA cohort reduced in size (from 51 934 ARFAs to 20 548) in the course of 5 years. ARFAs had the highest average total cost of admissions per person over 5 years at £38 189. CONCLUSIONS People with repeated admissions for alcohol-related problems in England appear to be a high-cost, high-need, complex group of patients that makes up more than a quarter of the country's alcohol admissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalind Blackwood
- Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Michael Lynskey
- Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Colin Drummond
- Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
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Hossain R, Dai JH, Jamani S, Ma Z, Dvorani E, Graves E, Burcul I, Strobel S. Hard-to-Reach Populations and Administrative Health Data: A Serial Cross-sectional Study and Application of Data to Improve Interventions for People Experiencing Homelessness. Med Care 2021; 59:S139-S145. [PMID: 33710086 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001481] [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: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intervention studies with vulnerable groups in the emergency department (ED) suffer from lower quality and an absence of administrative health data. We used administrative health data to identify and describe people experiencing homelessness who access EDs, characterize patterns of ED use relative to the general population, and apply findings to inform the design of a peer support program. METHODS We conducted a serial cross-sectional study using administrative health data to examine ED use by people experiencing homelessness and nonhomeless individuals in the Niagara region of Ontario, Canada from April 1, 2010 to March 31, 2018. Outcomes included number of visits; unique patients; group proportions of Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS) scores; time spent in emergency; and time to see an MD. Descriptive statistics were generated with t tests for point estimates and a Mann-Whitney U test for distributional measures. RESULTS We included 1,486,699 ED visits. The number of unique people experiencing homelessness ranged from 91 in 2010 to 344 in 2017, trending higher over the study period compared with nonhomeless patients. Rate of visits increased from 1.7 to 2.8 per person. People experiencing homelessness presented later with higher overall acuity compared with the general population. Time in the ED and time to see an MD were greater among people experiencing homelessness. CONCLUSIONS People experiencing homelessness demonstrate increasing visits, worse health, and longer time in the ED when compared with the general population, which may be a burden on both patients and the health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahat Hossain
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto
| | - Jia Hong Dai
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University
| | - Shaila Jamani
- Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines
| | - Zechen Ma
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University
| | | | | | - Ivana Burcul
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University
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12
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Emergency department interventions for homelessness: a systematic review. CAN J EMERG MED 2021; 23:111-122. [PMID: 33683611 DOI: 10.1007/s43678-020-00008-4] [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] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The social determinants of health are economic and social conditions that contribute to health. Access to housing is a major social determinant of health and homeless patients often rely on emergency departments (EDs) for their healthcare. These patients are frequently discharged back to the street which further perpetuates the cycle of homelessness and negatively affects their health. Previous work has described the financial and systems implications of ED-housed interventions for homeless patients; this review summarizes ED-based interventions that seek to improve the social determinants of health of homeless patients. METHODS We conducted a search of multiple databases and gray literature for studies investigating interventions for homelessness that were initiated in the ED. Studies had to use a control group or use a pre/post-intervention design and measure outcomes that demonstrate an effect on health or the social determinants of health. RESULTS Thirteen studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria. Two studies were housing first interventions and were effective in providing housing and improving health. Seven studies used variations of case management and were able to address many of the social needs of people who are homeless. CONCLUSION This review demonstrated that ED interventions can be effective in improving the social determinants of health of homeless individuals and can be the place to initiate housing interventions. ED providers must advocate for the resources necessary to properly address the social needs of this marginalized population. Equipped with the proper resources, EDs can be one place where the cycle of homelessness is broken.
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Tsai J, Szymkowiak D, Kertesz SG. Top 10 presenting diagnoses of homeless veterans seeking care at emergency departments. Am J Emerg Med 2021; 45:17-22. [PMID: 33647757 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2021.02.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The health concerns that spur care-seeking in emergency departments (EDs) among homeless populations are not well described. The Veterans Affairs (VA) comprehensive healthcare system does not require health insurance and thus offers a unique window into ED service use by homeless veterans. OBJECTIVE This study examined the top 10 diagnostic categories for ED use among homeless and non-homeless veterans classified by age, gender, and race/ethnicity. DESIGN An observational study was conducted using national VA administrative data from 2016 to 2019. PARTICIPANTS Data on 260,783 homeless veterans and 2,295,704 non-homeless veterans were analyzed. MAIN MEASURES Homelessness was defined as a documented diagnostic code or use of any VA homeless program. Presenting diagnoses to the ED were grouped based on Clinical Classifications Software Refined (CCSR) categories endorsed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). KEY RESULTS The most common diagnostic categories for ED use among homeless veterans were, in order, musculoskeletal pain, alcohol-related disorders, suicidal behaviors, low back pain, and non-specified conditions, which together accounted for 22-24% of all ED visits. Among non-homeless veterans, alcohol-related disorders, suicidal behaviors, and depressive disorders did not number in the top 10 diagnostic categories for ED use. Some differences between homeless and non-homeless veterans presenting for ED care, such as age, gender, and race/ethnicity largely mirrored known epidemiological differences between these groups in general. But respiratory infections and symptoms were only in the top 10 for black veterans and depressive disorder was only in the top 10 for Hispanic veterans. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that addressing psychosocial factors and optimizing healthcare for behavioral health and pain conditions among veterans experiencing homelessness has the potential to reduce emergency care-seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Tsai
- National Center on Homelessness Among Veterans, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office, USA; School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, USA.
| | - Dorota Szymkowiak
- National Center on Homelessness Among Veterans, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office, USA
| | - Stefan G Kertesz
- National Center on Homelessness Among Veterans, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office, USA; Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, USA; Division of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA
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Lytvyak E, Sutton RT, Dieleman LA, Peerani F, Fedorak RN, Kroeker KI. Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients With Clinical Care Pathways Reduces Emergency Department Utilization. CROHN'S & COLITIS 360 2020; 2:otaa080. [PMID: 36777757 PMCID: PMC9802474 DOI: 10.1093/crocol/otaa080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Standardizing care through pathways has the potential to reduce emergency department (ED) utilization. We developed and evaluated inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) care pathways for that purpose. Methods Over 2014-2016, IBD patients were retrospectively stratified into those managed and not managed by pathways. Patient data were extracted, and negative binomial regression used to predict the annual number of ED visits. Results There was a difference of 30.7 ED visits/100 patients between managed and nonmanaged at 12 months (P < 0.001). The incidence rate ratio of total ED visits occurring annually was 0.750 (P = 0.008). Conclusions Management with IBD care pathways reduces ED utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellina Lytvyak
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Reed T Sutton
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Levinus A Dieleman
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Farhad Peerani
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Richard N Fedorak
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Karen I Kroeker
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada,Address correspondence to: Karen I. Kroeker, MD, MSc, University of Alberta, 2-40 Zeidler Ledcor Center, 8540 112th Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2X8, Canada ()
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Alunni-Menichini K, Bertrand K, Roy L, Brousselle A. Current emergency response in montreal: How does it fit in the services offered to homeless people who use substances? THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 82:102758. [PMID: 32482488 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Background This paper presents an assessment of the current emergency response to homeless people who use substances in Montreal, a major North American city. This project addresses the rising concern about homelessness in high-income countries. Several studies have shown that homeless people frequently use emergency services (i.e., police, paramedical, and hospital), especially in the context of substance use. Yet, the key actors' perspectives are poorly documented. Method Our team conducted a needs analysis using a deliberative democratic evaluation. Data collection strategies included an intersectoral World Café (n = 34, including police, specialized professionals, community stakeholders, political representatives, researchers, and people who have been homeless) and individual interviews with health professionals (n = 5) and homeless people (n = 8). We performed a thematic content analysis based on a conceptual framework of access to health care and of collaboration. Findings This study provided key information on the role of emergency services and the needs of key actors, in terms of the dimensions of access to health care (approachability, acceptability, availability, and appropriateness) and continuity. Our main results show that, according to the participants, the emergency response is relevant when homeless people are a danger to themselves or to others, and during episodes of acute physical and psychological care. However, emergency service providers still stigmatize homelessness and substance use, which negatively affects intervention quality. Finally, our main results highlight the interdependence between the emergency services and health, social, and community services. Conclusion The emergency response is necessary and appropriate in some situations. It remains important to intervene upstream and to improve the attitudes and practices of emergency service providers. Finally, it is necessary to adapt services to the needs of homeless substance users and improve service continuity, for example, by adopting a population-based approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristelle Alunni-Menichini
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Institut Universitaire en Dépendance, 150, place Charles-Le Moyne, bureau 200, Longueuil (QC), J4K 0A8, Canada; Institut universitaire sur les dépendances, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, 950 rue de Louvain Est, Montréal (QC), H2M 2E8
| | - Karine Bertrand
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Institut Universitaire en Dépendance, 150, place Charles-Le Moyne, bureau 200, Longueuil (QC), J4K 0A8, Canada; Institut universitaire sur les dépendances, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, 950 rue de Louvain Est, Montréal (QC), H2M 2E8
| | - Laurence Roy
- School of Physical & Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Davis House, 3654 Promenade Sir-William-Osler, Montreal (QC), H3G 1Y5, Canada; Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, 6875 LaSalle Boulevard, Montreal (QC), H4H 1R3, Canada
| | - Astrid Brousselle
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Institut Universitaire en Dépendance, 150, place Charles-Le Moyne, bureau 200, Longueuil (QC), J4K 0A8, Canada; School of Public Administration, Faculty of Human and Social Development, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Rd (Ring Rd), Human & Social Development Building, Room A302, Victoria (BC), V8P 5C2, Canada
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Lintzeris N, Deacon RM, Shanahan M, Clarke J, MacFarlane S, Leung S, Schulz M, Jackson A, Khamoudes D, Gordon DEA, Demirkol A. Evaluation of an Assertive Management and Integrated Care Service for Frequent Emergency Department Attenders with Substance Use Disorders: The Impact Project: Evaluating an assertive management service for frequent ED attenders with substance use disorders. Int J Integr Care 2020; 20:4. [PMID: 32346362 PMCID: PMC7181945 DOI: 10.5334/ijic.5343] [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: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Frequent attenders to Emergency Departments (ED) often have contributing substance use disorders (SUD), but there are few evaluations of relevant interventions. We examine one such pilot assertive management service set in Sydney, Australia (IMPACT), aimed at reducing hospital presentations and costs, and improving client outcomes. METHODS IMPACT eligibility criteria included moderate-to-severe SUD and ED attendance on ≥5 occasions in the previous year. A pre-post intervention design examined clients' presentations and outcomes 6 months before and after participation to a comparison group of eligible clients who did not engage. RESULTS Between 2014 and 2015, 34 clients engaged in IMPACT, with 12 in the comparison group. Clients demonstrated significant reductions in preventable (p < 0.05) and non-preventable (p < 0.01) ED presentations and costs, and in hospital admissions and costs (p < 0.01). IMPACT clients also reported a significant reduction in use days for primary substance (p < 0.01). The comparison group had a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in non-preventable visits only. CONCLUSIONS Assertive management services can be effective in preventing hospital presentations and costs for frequent ED attenders with SUDs and improving client outcomes, representing an effective integrated health approach. The IMPACT service has since been refined and integrated into routine care across a number of hospitals in Sydney, Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Lintzeris
- The Langton Centre, Drug and Alcohol Services, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Surry Hills NSW, AU
- Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, AU
| | - Rachel M. Deacon
- The Langton Centre, Drug and Alcohol Services, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Surry Hills NSW, AU
- Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, AU
| | - Marian Shanahan
- Drug Policy Modelling Program, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney NSW, AU
| | - James Clarke
- The Langton Centre, Drug and Alcohol Services, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Surry Hills NSW, AU
| | - Stephanie MacFarlane
- The Langton Centre, Drug and Alcohol Services, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Surry Hills NSW, AU
| | - Stefanie Leung
- The Langton Centre, Drug and Alcohol Services, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Surry Hills NSW, AU
- Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, AU
| | - Michelle Schulz
- The Langton Centre, Drug and Alcohol Services, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Surry Hills NSW, AU
| | - Anthony Jackson
- The Langton Centre, Drug and Alcohol Services, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Surry Hills NSW, AU
| | - Daniel Khamoudes
- Prince of Wales Hospital Emergency Department, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Barker Street, Randwick, NSW, AU
| | - David E. A. Gordon
- The Langton Centre, Drug and Alcohol Services, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Surry Hills NSW, AU
| | - Apo Demirkol
- The Langton Centre, Drug and Alcohol Services, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Surry Hills NSW, AU
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, The University of New South Wales, AU
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Comparing Unsheltered and Sheltered Homeless: Demographics, Health Services Use and Predictors of Health Services Use. Community Ment Health J 2020; 56:271-279. [PMID: 31552539 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-019-00470-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Secondary data obtained through the 2015 point-in-time homelessness count and an administrative health care utilization database was used to identify differences in demographic characteristics, health service use, and predictors of health service use among people experiencing unsheltered and sheltered homelessness. Compared to sheltered participants, unsheltered participants had higher proportions of males and Caucasians, were younger, were more likely to use any type of health service and ED services, and used significantly more of any health service and ED and outpatient services. Results also confirm that health services utilization is a complex phenomenon predicted by a variety of predisposing, enabling, and need-related factors, including mental health problems. Together, these findings demonstrate important differences between people living unsheltered and those residing in shelters and they inform local health policy and program initiatives tailored towards these homeless populations.
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18
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Kerman N, Aubry T, Adair CE, Distasio J, Latimer E, Somers J, Stergiopoulos V. Effectiveness of Housing First for Homeless Adults with Mental Illness Who Frequently Use Emergency Departments in a Multisite Randomized Controlled Trial. ADMINISTRATION AND POLICY IN MENTAL HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2020; 47:515-525. [DOI: 10.1007/s10488-020-01008-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Raven MC. Homelessness and the Practice of Emergency Medicine: Challenges, Gaps in Care, and Moral Obligations. Ann Emerg Med 2019; 74:S33-S37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2019.08.440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Harcourt D, McDonald C, Cartlidge-Gann L, Burke J. Working Together to Connect Care: a metropolitan tertiary emergency department and community care program. AUST HEALTH REV 2019; 42:189-195. [PMID: 28248631 DOI: 10.1071/ah16236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective Frequent attendance by people to an emergency department (ED) is a global concern. A collaborative partnership between an ED and the primary and community healthcare sectors has the potential to improve care for the person who frequently attends the ED. The aims of the Working Together to Connect Care program are to decrease the number of presentations by providing focused community support and to integrate all healthcare services with the goal of achieving positive, patient-centred and directed outcomes. Methods A retrospective analysis of ED data for 2014 and 2015 was used to ascertain the characteristics of the potential program cohort. The definition used to identify a 'frequent attendee' was more than four presentations to an ED in 1 month. This analysis was used to develop the processes now known as the Working Together to Connect Care program. This program includes participant identification by applying the definition, flagging of potential participants in the ED IT system, case review and referral to community services by ED staff, case conferencing facilitated within the ED and individualised, patient centred case management provided by government and non-government community services. Results Two months after the date of commencement of the Working Together to Connect Care program there are 31 active participants in the program: 10 are on the Mental Health pathway, and one is on the No Consent pathway. On average there are three people recruited to the program every week. The establishment of a new program for supporting frequent attendees of an ED has had its challenges. Identifying systems that support people in their community has been an early positive outcome of this project. Conclusion It is expected that data regarding the number of ED presentations, potential fiscal savings and client outcomes will be available in 2017. What is known about the topic? Frequent attendance at EDs is a global issue and although the number of 'super users' is small compared with non-frequent users, the presentations are high. People in the frequent attendee group will often seek care from multiple EDs for, in the main, mental health issues and substance abuse. Furthermore, frequent ED users are vulnerable and experience higher mortality, hospital admissions and out-patient visits than non-frequent users. Aggressive and assertive outreach, intense coordination of services by integrated care teams, and the need for non-medical resources, such as supportive housing, have positive outcomes for this group of people. What does this paper add? This study uses international research findings in an Australian setting to provide a testing of the generalisability of an assertive and collaborative ED and community case management approach for supporting people who frequent a metropolitan ED. What are the implications for practitioners? The chronicling of a process undertaken to affect change in a health care setting supports practitioners when developing processes for this cohort across different ED contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra Harcourt
- Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Patient Flow Unit, James Mayne Building, Butterfield Street, Brisbane, Qld 4006, Australia. Email
| | - Clancy McDonald
- Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Emergency Department, James Mayne Building, Butterfield Street, Brisbane, Qld 4006, Australia.
| | - Leonie Cartlidge-Gann
- Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Patient Flow Unit, James Mayne Building, Butterfield Street, Brisbane, Qld 4006, Australia. Email
| | - John Burke
- Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Emergency Department, James Mayne Building, Butterfield Street, Brisbane, Qld 4006, Australia.
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Booth A, Preston L, Baxter S, Wong R, Chambers D, Turner J. Interventions to manage use of the emergency and urgent care system by people from vulnerable groups: a mapping review. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr07330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
The NHS currently faces increasing demands on accident and emergency departments. Concern has been expressed regarding whether the needs of vulnerable groups are being handled appropriately or whether alternative methods of service delivery may provide more appropriate emergency and urgent care services for particular groups.
Objective
Our objective was to identify what interventions exist to manage use of the emergency and urgent care system by people from a prespecified list of vulnerable groups. We aimed to describe the characteristics of these interventions and examine service delivery outcomes (for patients and the health service) resulting from these interventions.
Review methods
We conducted an initial mapping review to assess the quantity and nature of the published research evidence relating to seven vulnerable groups (socioeconomically deprived people and families, migrants, ethnic minority groups, the long-term unemployed/inactive, people with unstable housing situations, people living in rural/isolated areas and people with substance abuse disorders). Databases, including MEDLINE and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and other sources were searched between 2008 and 2018. Quantitative and qualitative systematic reviews and primary studies of any design were eligible for inclusion. In addition, we searched for UK interventions and initiatives by examining press reports, commissioning plans and casebooks of ‘good practice’. We carried out a detailed intervention analysis, using an adapted version of the TIDieR (Template for Intervention Description and Replication) framework for describing interventions, and an analysis of current NHS practice initiatives.
Results
We identified nine different types of interventions: care navigators [three studies – moderate GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations)], care planning (three studies – high), case finding (five studies – moderate), case management (four studies – high), front of accident and emergency general practice/front-door streaming model (one study – low), migrant support programme (one study – low), outreach services and teams (two studies – moderate), rapid access doctor/paramedic/urgent visiting services (one study – low) and urgent care clinics (one systematic review – moderate). Few interventions had been targeted at vulnerable populations; instead, they represented general population interventions or were targeted at frequent attenders (who may or may not be from vulnerable groups). Interventions supported by robust evidence (care navigators, care planning, case finding, case management, outreach services and teams, and urgent care clinics) demonstrated an effect on the general population, rather than specific population effects. Many programmes mixed intervention components (e.g. case finding, case management and care navigators), making it difficult to isolate the effect of any single component. Promising UK initiatives (front of accident and emergency general practice/front-door streaming model, migrant support programmes and rapid access doctor/paramedic/urgent visiting services) lacked rigorous evaluation. Evaluation should therefore focus on the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of these initiatives.
Conclusions
The review identified a limited number of intervention types that may be useful in addressing the needs of specific vulnerable populations, with little evidence specifically relating to these groups. The evidence highlights that vulnerable populations encompass different subgroups with potentially differing needs, and also that interventions seem particularly context sensitive. This indicates a need for a greater understanding of potential drivers for varying groups in specific localities.
Limitations
Resources did not allow exhaustive identification of all UK initiatives; the examples cited are indicative.
Future work
Research is required to examine how specific vulnerable populations differentially benefit from specific types of alternative service provision. Further exploration, using primary mixed-methods data and potentially realist evaluation, is required to explore what works for whom under what circumstances. Rigorous evaluation of UK initiatives is required, including a specific need for economic evaluations and for studies that incorporate effects on the wider emergency and urgent care system.
Funding
The National Institute for Health Research Health Services and Delivery Research programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Booth
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Louise Preston
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Susan Baxter
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Ruth Wong
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Duncan Chambers
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Janette Turner
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Iovan S, Lantz PM, Allan K, Abir M. Interventions to Decrease Use in Prehospital and Emergency Care Settings Among Super-Utilizers in the United States: A Systematic Review. Med Care Res Rev 2019; 77:99-111. [DOI: 10.1177/1077558719845722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Interest in high users of acute care continues to grow as health care organizations look to deliver cost-effective and high-quality care to patients. Since “super-utilizers” of acute care are responsible for disproportionately high health care spending, many programs and interventions have been implemented to reduce medical care use and costs in this population. This article presents a systematic review of the peer-reviewed and grey literature on evaluations of interventions to decrease prehospital and emergency care use among U.S. super-utilizers. Forty-six distinct evaluations were included in the review. The most commonly evaluated intervention was case management. Although a number of interventions reported reductions in prehospital and emergency care utilization and costs, methodological and study design weaknesses—especially regression to the mean—were widespread and call into question reported positive findings. More high-quality research is needed to accurately assess the impact of interventions to reduce prehospital and emergency care use in the super-utilizer population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mahshid Abir
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Lee SJ, Thomas P, Newnham H, Freidin J, Smith C, Lowthian J, Borghmans F, Gocentas RA, De Silva D, Stafrace S. Homeless status documentation at a metropolitan hospital emergency department. Emerg Med Australas 2019; 31:639-645. [DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stuart J Lee
- Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research CentreThe Alfred and Central Clinical School Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of PsychiatryAlfred Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Phillipa Thomas
- Department of PsychiatryAlfred Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Harvey Newnham
- General MedicineAlfred Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Julian Freidin
- Department of PsychiatryAlfred Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Cathie Smith
- Emergency and Trauma CentreAlfred Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Judy Lowthian
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive MedicineMonash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Bolton Clarke Research InstituteBolton Clarke Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Felice Borghmans
- Alfred HealthHospital Admission Risk Program Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Robert A Gocentas
- Emergency and Trauma CentreAlfred Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | | | - Simon Stafrace
- Department of PsychiatryAlfred Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
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Substance use and homelessness among emergency department patients. Drug Alcohol Depend 2018; 188:328-333. [PMID: 29852450 PMCID: PMC6478031 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homelessness and substance use often coexist, resulting in high morbidity. Emergency department (ED) patients have disproportionate rates of both homelessness and substance use, yet little research has examined the overlap of these issues in the ED setting. We aimed to characterize alcohol and drug use in a sample of homeless vs. non-homeless ED patients. METHODS A random sample of urban hospital ED patients were invited to complete an interview regarding housing, substance use, and other health and social factors. We compared substance use characteristics among patients who did vs. did not report current literal (streets/shelter) homelessness. Additional analyses were performed using a broader definition of homelessness in the past 12-months. RESULTS Patients who were currently homeless (n = 316, 13.7%) versus non-homeless (n = 1,993, 86.3%) had higher rates of past year unhealthy alcohol use (44.4% vs. 30.5%, p < .0001), any drug use (40.8% vs. 18.8%, p < .0001), heroin use (16.7% vs. 3.8%, p < .0001), prescription opioid use (12.5% vs. 4.4%, p < .0001), and lifetime opioid overdose (15.8% vs. 3.7%, p < .0001). In multivariable analyses, current homelessness remained significantly associated with unhealthy alcohol use, AUDIT scores among unhealthy alcohol users, any drug use, heroin use, and opioid overdose; past 12-month homelessness was additionally associated with DAST-10 scores among drug users and prescription opioid use. CONCLUSIONS Patients experiencing homelessness have higher rates and greater severity of alcohol and drug use than other ED patients across a range of measures. These findings have implications for planning services for patients with concurrent substance use and housing problems.
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Harcourt DI, McDonald CJ, Cartlidge-Gann L, Brown NJ, Rayner K. Frequent presentations to emergency departments and the collaborative community and emergency response. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATED CARE 2018. [DOI: 10.1108/jica-02-2018-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
Patient dependence on an emergency department (ED) for ongoing, non-urgent health care is a complex issue related to poor mental and physical health, disability, previous trauma, social disadvantage and lack of social supports. Working Together to Connect Care is an innovative program that provides an assertive community case management approach coupled with an ED management plan to support people who frequently attend the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital ED. The program, which is yet to be fully evaluated, currently helps to manage a large number of patients with a wide variety of complex needs. To demonstrate the scope and capabilities of the program, the purpose of this paper is to present a series of case studies of patients who frequently attended the ED and subsequently became program participants.
Design/methodology/approach
A series of five case studies is used to illustrate the variety of patient characteristics and available management pathways. Outcomes, including rates of ED attendance, at five months after program commencement are also described.
Findings
The variety of characteristics and experiences of the patients in the case studies is representative of the program cohort as a whole. Program participation has resulted in improved patient outcomes as demonstrated by crisis resolution, housing stability, engagement with primary health care and reduced frequency of ED presentations.
Originality/value
A personalized, integrated-care management approach is both flexible and effective in responding to the complex needs of five patients who frequently attend EDs.
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Salhi BA, White MH, Pitts SR, Wright DW. Homelessness and Emergency Medicine: A Review of the Literature. Acad Emerg Med 2018; 25:577-593. [PMID: 29223132 DOI: 10.1111/acem.13358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2017] [Revised: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to synthesize the available evidence on the demographics, prevalence, clinical characteristics, and evidence-based management of homeless persons in the emergency department (ED). Where appropriate, we highlight knowledge gaps and suggest directions for future research. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature search following databases: PubMed, Ovid, and Google Scholar for articles published between January 1, 1990, and December 31, 2016. We supplemented this search by cross-referencing bibliographies of the retrieved publications. Peer-reviewed studies written in English and conducted in the United States that examined homelessness within the ED setting were included. We used a qualitative approach to synthesize the existing literature. RESULTS Twenty-eight studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria. Based on our study objectives and the available literature, we grouped articles examining homeless populations in the ED into four broad categories: 1) prevalence and sociodemographic characteristics of homeless ED visits, 2) ED utilization by homeless adults, 3) clinical characteristics of homeless ED visits, and 4) medical education and evidence-based management of homeless ED patients. CONCLUSION Homelessness may be underrecognized in the ED setting. Homeless ED patients have distinct care needs and patterns of ED utilization that are unmet by the current disease-oriented and episodic models of emergency medicine. More research is needed to determine the prevalence and characteristics of homelessness in the ED and to develop evidence-based treatment strategies in caring for this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bisan A. Salhi
- Department of Emergency Medicine Emory University Atlanta GA
- Department of Anthropology Emory University Atlanta GA
| | | | | | - David W. Wright
- Department of Emergency Medicine Emory University Atlanta GA
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Grover CA, Sughair J, Stoopes S, Guillen F, Tellez L, Wilson TM, Gaccione C, Close RJH. Case Management Reduces Length of Stay, Charges, and Testing in Emergency Department Frequent Users. West J Emerg Med 2018; 19:238-244. [PMID: 29560049 PMCID: PMC5851494 DOI: 10.5811/westjem.2017.9.34710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Revised: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Case management is an effective, short-term means to reduce emergency department (ED) visits in frequent users of the ED. This study sought to determine the effectiveness of case management on frequent ED users, in terms of reducing ED and hospital length of stay (LOS), accrued costs, and utilization of diagnostic tests. Methods The study consisted of a retrospective chart review of ED and inpatient visits in our hospital's ED case management program, comparing patient visits made in the one year prior to enrollment in the program, to the visits made in the one year after enrollment in the program. We examined the LOS, use of diagnostic testing, and monetary charges incurred by these patients one year prior and one year after enrollment into case management. Results The study consisted of 158 patients in case management. Comparing the one year prior to enrollment to the one year after enrollment, ED visits decreased by 49%, inpatient admissions decreased by 39%, the use of computed tomography imaging decreased 41%, the use of ultrasound imaging decreased 52%, and the use of radiographs decreased 38%. LOS in the ED and for inpatient admissions decreased by 39%, reducing total LOS for these patients by 178 days. ED and hospital charges incurred by these patients decreased by 5.8 million dollars, a 41% reduction. All differences were statistically significant. Conclusion Case management for frequent users of the ED is an effective method to reduce patient visits, the use of diagnostic testing, length of stay, and cost within our institution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey A Grover
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, Division of Emergency Medicine, Monterey, California
| | - Jameel Sughair
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, Division of Emergency Medicine, Monterey, California
| | - Sydney Stoopes
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, Division of Emergency Medicine, Monterey, California
| | - Felipe Guillen
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, Division of Emergency Medicine, Monterey, California
| | - Leah Tellez
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, Division of Emergency Medicine, Monterey, California
| | - Tierra M Wilson
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, Division of Emergency Medicine, Monterey, California
| | - Charles Gaccione
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, Division of Emergency Medicine, Monterey, California
| | - Reb J H Close
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, Division of Emergency Medicine, Monterey, California
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Stenius-Ayoade A, Haaramo P, Erkkilä E, Marola N, Nousiainen K, Wahlbeck K, Eriksson JG. Mental disorders and the use of primary health care services among homeless shelter users in the Helsinki metropolitan area, Finland. BMC Health Serv Res 2017. [PMID: 28637455 PMCID: PMC5480200 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2372-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Homelessness is associated with increased morbidity, mortality and health care use. The aim of this study was to examine the role of mental disorders in relation to the use of 1) daytime primary health care services and 2) after hours primary health care emergency room (PHER) services among homeless shelter users in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area, Finland. Methods The study cohort consists of all 158 homeless persons using the four shelters operating in the study area during two selected nights. The health records were analyzed over a period of 3 years prior to the sample nights and data on morbidity and primary health care visits were gathered. We used negative binomial regression to estimate the association between mental disorders and daytime visits to primary health care and after hours visits to PHERs. Results During the 3 years the 158 homeless persons in the cohort made 1410 visits to a physician in primary health care. The cohort exhibited high rates of mental disorders, including substance use disorders (SUDs); i.e. 141 persons (89%) had a mental disorder. We found dual diagnosis, defined as SUD concurring with other mental disorder, to be strongly associated with daytime primary health care utilization (IRR 11.0, 95% CI 5.9–20.6) when compared with those without any mental disorder diagnosis. The association was somewhat weaker for those with only SUDs (IRR 4.9, 95% CI 2.5–9.9) or with only other mental disorders (IRR 5.0, 95% CI 2.4–10.8). When focusing upon the after hours visits to PHERs we observed that both dual diagnosis (IRR 14.1, 95% CI 6.3–31.2) and SUDs (11.5, 95% CI 5.7–23.3) were strongly associated with utilization of PHERs compared to those without any mental disorder. In spite of a high numbers of visits, we found undertreatment of chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Conclusions Dual diagnosis is particularly strongly associated with primary health care daytime visits among homeless persons staying in shelters, while after hours visits to primary health care level emergency rooms are strongly associated with both dual diagnosis and SUDs. Active treatment for SUDs could reduce the amount of emergency visits made by homeless shelter users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Stenius-Ayoade
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland. .,National Institute for Health and Welfare, Mental Health Unit, Helsinki, Finland. .,Department of Social Services and Health Care, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Peija Haaramo
- National Institute for Health and Welfare, Mental Health Unit, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elisabet Erkkilä
- Department of Social Services and Health Care, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Niko Marola
- National Institute for Health and Welfare, Mental Health Unit, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kirsi Nousiainen
- Department of Social Research, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Johan G Eriksson
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland.,National Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Chronic Disease Prevention, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Grover CA, Crawford E, Close RJ. The Efficacy of Case Management on Emergency Department Frequent Users: An Eight-Year Observational Study. J Emerg Med 2016; 51:595-604. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2016.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Lam CN, Arora S, Menchine M. Increased 30-Day Emergency Department Revisits Among Homeless Patients with Mental Health Conditions. West J Emerg Med 2016; 17:607-12. [PMID: 27625726 PMCID: PMC5017846 DOI: 10.5811/westjem.2016.6.30690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with mental health conditions frequently use emergency medical services. Many suffer from substance use and homelessness. If they use the emergency department (ED) as their primary source of care, potentially preventable frequent ED revisits and hospital readmissions can worsen an already crowded healthcare system. However, the magnitude to which homelessness affects health service utilization among patients with mental health conditions remains unclear in the medical community. This study assessed the impact of homelessness on 30-day ED revisits and hospital readmissions among patients presenting with mental health conditions in an urban, safety-net hospital. METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis of administrative data on all adult ED visits in 2012 in an urban safety-net hospital. Patient demographics, mental health status, homelessness, insurance coverage, level of acuity, and ED disposition per ED visit were analyzed using multilevel modeling to control for multiple visits nested within patients. We performed multivariate logistic regressions to evaluate if homelessness moderated the likelihood of mental health patients' 30-day ED revisits and hospital readmissions. RESULTS Study included 139,414 adult ED visits from 92,307 unique patients (43.5±15.1 years, 51.3% male, 68.2% Hispanic/Latino). Nearly 8% of patients presented with mental health conditions, while 4.6% were homeless at any time during the study period. Among patients with mental health conditions, being homeless contributed to an additional 28.0% increase in likelihood (4.28 to 5.48 odds) of 30-day ED revisits and 38.2% increase in likelihood (2.04 to 2.82 odds) of hospital readmission, compared to non-homeless, non-mental health (NHNM) patients as the base category. Adjusted predicted probabilities showed that homeless patients presenting with mental health conditions have a 31.1% chance of returning to the ED within 30-day post discharge and a 3.7% chance of hospital readmission, compared to non-homeless patients presenting with mental health conditions (25.2%, 2.6%) and NHNM (7.7%, 1.5%). CONCLUSION Homeless patients presenting with mental health conditions were more likely to return to the ED within 30 days and to be readmitted to the hospital. Interventions providing housing might improve their overall care management and have the potential to reduce ED revisits and hospital readmissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Nok Lam
- University of Southern California, Department of Emergency Medicine, Los Angeles, California
| | - Sanjay Arora
- University of Southern California, Department of Emergency Medicine, Los Angeles, California
- University of Southern California, USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, Los Angeles, California
| | - Michael Menchine
- University of Southern California, Department of Emergency Medicine, Los Angeles, California
- University of Southern California, USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, Los Angeles, California
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Raven MC, Kushel M, Ko MJ, Penko J, Bindman AB. The Effectiveness of Emergency Department Visit Reduction Programs: A Systematic Review. Ann Emerg Med 2016; 68:467-483.e15. [PMID: 27287549 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2016.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Revised: 03/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE Previous reviews of emergency department (ED) visit reduction programs have not required that studies meet a minimum quality level and have therefore included low-quality studies in forming conclusions about the benefits of these programs. We conduct a systematic review of ED visit reduction programs after judging the quality of the research. We aim to determine whether these programs are effective in reducing ED visits and whether they result in adverse events. METHODS We identified studies of ED visit reduction programs conducted in the United States and targeted toward adult patients from January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2014. We evaluated study quality according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation criteria and included moderate- to high-quality studies in our review. We categorized interventions according to whether they targeted high-risk or low-acuity populations. RESULTS We evaluated the quality of 38 studies and found 13 to be of moderate or high quality. Within these 13 studies, only case management consistently reduced ED use. Studies of ED copayments had mixed results. We did not find evidence for any increase in adverse events (hospitalization rates or mortality) from the interventions in either high-risk or low-acuity populations. CONCLUSION High-quality, peer-reviewed evidence about ED visit reduction programs is limited. For most program types, we were unable to draw definitive conclusions about effectiveness. Future ED visit reduction programs should be regarded as demonstrations in need of rigorous evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Raven
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.
| | - Margot Kushel
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of California, San Francisco/San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, San Francisco, CA; Center for Vulnerable Populations, University of California, San Francisco/San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, San Francisco, CA
| | - Michelle J Ko
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Joanne Penko
- Center for Vulnerable Populations, University of California, San Francisco/San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, San Francisco, CA
| | - Andrew B Bindman
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and California Medicaid Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Division of General Internal Medicine, University of California, San Francisco/San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, San Francisco, CA
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Prehospital Indicators for Disaster Preparedness and Response: New York City Emergency Medical Services in Hurricane Sandy. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2016; 10:333-43. [DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2015.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractObjectiveWe aimed to evaluate emergency medical services (EMS) data as disaster metrics and to assess stress in surrounding hospitals and a municipal network after the closure of Bellevue Hospital during Hurricane Sandy in 2012.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed EMS activity and call types within New York City’s 911 computer-assisted dispatch database from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2013. We evaluated EMS ambulance transports to individual hospitals during Bellevue’s closure and incremental recovery from urgent care capacity, to freestanding emergency department (ED) capability, freestanding ED with 911-receiving designation, and return of inpatient services.ResultsA total of 2,877,087 patient transports were available for analysis; a total of 707,593 involved Manhattan hospitals. The 911 ambulance transports disproportionately increased at the 3 closest hospitals by 63.6%, 60.7%, and 37.2%. When Bellevue closed, transports to specific hospitals increased by 45% or more for the following call types: blunt traumatic injury, drugs and alcohol, cardiac conditions, difficulty breathing, “pedestrian struck,” unconsciousness, altered mental status, and emotionally disturbed persons.ConclusionsEMS data identified hospitals with disproportionately increased patient loads after Hurricane Sandy. Loss of Bellevue, a public, safety net medical center, produced statistically significant increases in specific types of medical and trauma transports at surrounding hospitals. Focused redeployment of human, economic, and social capital across hospital systems may be required to expedite regional health care systems recovery. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;10:333–343)
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Learning From the Stories of Homeless Alcoholics. Ann Emerg Med 2015; 65:187-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2014.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2014] [Revised: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 08/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Bell JF, Krupski A, Joesch JM, West II, Atkins DC, Court B, Mancuso D, Roy-Byrne P. A randomized controlled trial of intensive care management for disabled Medicaid beneficiaries with high health care costs. Health Serv Res 2014; 50:663-89. [PMID: 25427656 DOI: 10.1111/1475-6773.12258] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate outcomes of a registered nurse-led care management intervention for disabled Medicaid beneficiaries with high health care costs. DATA SOURCES/STUDY SETTING Washington State Department of Social and Health Services Client Outcomes Database, 2008-2011. STUDY DESIGN In a randomized controlled trial with intent-to-treat analysis, outcomes were compared for the intervention (n = 557) and control groups (n = 563). A quasi-experimental subanalysis compared outcomes for program participants (n = 251) and propensity score-matched controls (n = 251). DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS Administrative data were linked to describe costs and use of health services, criminal activity, homelessness, and death. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS In the intent-to-treat analysis, the intervention group had higher odds of outpatient mental health service use and higher prescription drug costs than controls in the postperiod. In the subanalysis, participants had fewer unplanned hospital admissions and lower associated costs; higher prescription drug costs; higher odds of long-term care service use; higher drug/alcohol treatment costs; and lower odds of homelessness. CONCLUSIONS We found no health care cost savings for disabled Medicaid beneficiaries randomized to intensive care management. Among participants, care management may have the potential to increase access to needed care, slow growth in the number and therefore cost of unplanned hospitalizations, and prevent homelessness. These findings apply to start-up care management programs targeted at high-cost, high-risk Medicaid populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice F Bell
- Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California, Davis, 4610 X Street #4202, Sacramento, CA, 95817
| | - Antoinette Krupski
- Center for Healthcare Improvement for Addictions, Mental Illness and Medically Vulnerable Populations (CHAMMP), University of Washington at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WD.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WD
| | - Jutta M Joesch
- Center for Healthcare Improvement for Addictions, Mental Illness and Medically Vulnerable Populations (CHAMMP), University of Washington at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WD.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WD
| | - Imara I West
- Center for Healthcare Improvement for Addictions, Mental Illness and Medically Vulnerable Populations (CHAMMP), University of Washington at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WD.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WD
| | - David C Atkins
- Center for Healthcare Improvement for Addictions, Mental Illness and Medically Vulnerable Populations (CHAMMP), University of Washington at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WD.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WD
| | - Beverly Court
- Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, Research and Data Analysis Division, Olympia, WA
| | - David Mancuso
- Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, Research and Data Analysis Division, Olympia, WA
| | - Peter Roy-Byrne
- Center for Healthcare Improvement for Addictions, Mental Illness and Medically Vulnerable Populations (CHAMMP), University of Washington at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WD.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WD
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Abstract
Homelessness has serious implications for the health of individuals and populations. Primary health-care programmes specifically tailored to homeless individuals might be more effective than standard primary health care. Standard case management, assertive community treatment, and critical time intervention are effective models of mental health-care delivery. Housing First, with immediate provision of housing in independent units with support, improves outcomes for individuals with serious mental illnesses. Many different types of interventions, including case management, are effective in the reduction of substance misuse. Interventions that provide case management and supportive housing have the greatest effect when they target individuals who are the most intensive users of services. Medical respite programmes are an effective intervention for homeless patients leaving the hospital. Although the scientific literature provides guidance on interventions to improve the health of homeless individuals, health-care providers should also seek to address social policies and structural factors that result in homelessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen W Hwang
- Centre for Research on Inner City Health, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Tom Burns
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
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36
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McCormack RP, Gallagher T, Goldfrank LR, Caplan AL. Including frequent emergency department users with severe alcohol use disorders in research: assessing capacity. Ann Emerg Med 2014; 65:172-7.e1. [PMID: 25447556 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2014.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2013] [Revised: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE Frequent emergency department (ED) users with severe alcohol use disorders are often excluded from research, in part because assessing capacity to provide consent is challenging. We aim to assess the feasibility of using the University of California, San Diego Brief Assessment of Capacity to Consent, a 5-minute, easy-to-use, validated instrument, to screen for capacity to consent for research in frequent ED users with severe alcohol use disorders. METHODS We prospectively enrolled a convenience sample of 20 adults to assess their capacity to provide consent for participation in 30-minute mixed-methods interviews using the 10-question University of California, San Diego Brief Assessment of Capacity to Consent. Participants were identified through an administrative database, had greater than 4 annual ED visits for 2 years, and had severe alcohol use disorders. The study was conducted with institutional review board approval from March to July 2013 in an urban, public, university ED receiving approximately 120,000 visits per year. Blood alcohol concentration and demographic data were extracted from the medical record. RESULTS We completed assessments for 19 of 20 participants. One was removed because of agitation. Sixteen of 19 participants passed each question and were deemed capable of providing informed consent. Interventions to improve understanding (prompting and material review) were required for 15 of 19 participants. The mean duration to describe the study and perform the assessment was 10.4 minutes (SD 3 minutes). The mean blood alcohol concentration was 211.5 mg/dL (SD 137.4 mg/dL). The 3 patients unable to demonstrate capacity had blood alcohol concentrations of 226 and 348 mg/dL, with 1 not obtained. CONCLUSION This pilot study supports the feasibility of using the University of California, San Diego Brief Assessment of Capacity to Consent to assess capacity of frequent ED users with severe alcohol use disorders to participate in research. Blood alcohol concentration was not correlated with capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan P McCormack
- Department of Emergency Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY.
| | - Timothy Gallagher
- Department of Emergency Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Lewis R Goldfrank
- Department of Emergency Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Arthur L Caplan
- Department of Population Health, Division of Medical Ethics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
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McClelland M, Asplin B, Epstein SK, Kocher KE, Pilgrim R, Pines J, Rabin EJ, Rathlev NK. The Affordable Care Act and emergency care. Am J Public Health 2014; 104:e8-10. [PMID: 25121814 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2014.302052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) will have far-reaching effects on the way health care is designed and delivered. Several elements of the ACA will directly affect both demand for ED care and expectations for its role in providing coordinated care. Hospitals will need to employ strategies to reduce ED crowding as the ACA expands insurance coverage. Discussions between EDs and primary care physicians about their respective roles providing acute unscheduled care would promote the goals of the ACA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark McClelland
- Mark McClelland is with the Office of Nursing Research and Innovation, Cleveland Clinic Health System, Cleveland, OH. Brent Asplin is with Catholic Health Partners, Cincinnati, OH. Stephen K. Epstein is with the Harvard Medical School Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Keith Eric Kocher is with the University of Michigan Department Of Emergency Medicine, Ann Arbor. Randy Pilgrim is with the Schumacher Group, Lafayette, LA. Jesse Pines is with the Departments of Emergency Medicine and Health Policy, George Washington University, Washington, DC. Elaine Rabin is with the Department of Emergency, Medicine Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY. Niels Kumar Rathlev is with Tufts University School of Medicine, Baystate Medical Center, Boston
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McCormack RP, Hoffman LF, Norman M, Goldfrank LR, Norman EM. Voices of homeless alcoholics who frequent Bellevue Hospital: a qualitative study. Ann Emerg Med 2014; 65:178-86.e6. [PMID: 24976534 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2014.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2014] [Revised: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE We describe the evolution, environment, and psychosocial context of alcoholism from the perspective of chronically homeless, alcohol-dependent, frequent emergency department (ED) attendees. We use their words to explore how homelessness, health care, and other influences have contributed to the cause, progression, and management of their alcoholism. METHODS We conducted detailed, semistructured, qualitative interviews, using a phenomenological approach with 20 chronically homeless, alcohol-dependent participants who had greater than 4 annual ED visits for 2 consecutive years at Bellevue Hospital in New York City. We used an administrative database and purposive sampling to obtain typical and atypical cases with diverse backgrounds. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. We triangulated interviews, field notes, and medical records. We used ATLAS.ti to code and determine themes, which we reviewed for agreement. We bracketed for researcher bias and maintained an audit trail. RESULTS Interviews lasted an average of 50 minutes and yielded 800 pages of transcript. Fifty codes emerged, which were clustered into 4 broad themes: alcoholism, homelessness, health care, and the future. The participants' perspectives support a multifactorial process for the evolution of their alcoholism and its bidirectional reinforcing relationship with homelessness. Their self-efficacy and motivation for treatment is eroded by their progressive sense of hopelessness, which provides context for behaviors that reinforce stigma. CONCLUSION Our study exposes concepts for further exploration in regard to the difficulty in engaging individuals who are incapable of envisioning a future. We hypothesize that a multidisciplinary harm reduction approach that integrates health and social services is achievable and would address their needs more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan P McCormack
- Department of Emergency Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY.
| | - Lily F Hoffman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY; New York University Gallatin School of Individualized Study, New York, NY
| | - Michael Norman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY; Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute, New York University College of Arts and Sciences, New York, NY
| | - Lewis R Goldfrank
- Department of Emergency Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Elizabeth M Norman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY; Department of Humanities and Social Sciences and Interdepartmental Research Studies, New York University Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York, NY
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Hamilton BH, Sheth A, McCormack RT, McCormack RP. Imaging of frequent emergency department users with alcohol use disorders. J Emerg Med 2014; 46:582-7. [PMID: 24412058 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2013.08.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2013] [Revised: 08/21/2013] [Accepted: 08/27/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with altered level of consciousness secondary to alcohol use disorders (AUDs) often undergo imaging in the emergency department (ED), although the frequency and yield of this practice over time are unknown. STUDY OBJECTIVES We describe the use of imaging, the associated ionizing radiation exposure, cumulative costs, and identified acute and chronic injuries and abnormalities among frequent users of the ED with AUDs. METHODS This is a retrospective case series of individuals identified through an administrative database having 10 or more annual ED visits in 2 consecutive years who were prospectively followed for a third year. International Classification of Diseases, 9(th) Revision, Clinical Modification and Current Procedural Terminology codes were used to select individuals with alcohol-related diagnoses, track imaging procedures, and calculate cost. Diagnoses, imaging results, and radiation exposure per computed tomography (CT) study were abstracted from the medical record. RESULTS Fifty-one individuals met inclusion criteria and had a total of 1648 imaging studies over the 3-year period. Subjects had a median of 5 (interquartile range [IQR] 2-10) CT scans, 20 (IQR 10-33) radiographs, 28.3 mSv (IQR 8.97-61.71) ionizing radiation, 0.2% (IQR 0.07-0.4) attributable risk of cancer, and $2979 (IQR 1560-5440) in charges using a national rate. The incidence of acute fracture or intracranial head injury was 55%, and 39% of the cohort had a history of moderate or severe traumatic brain injury. CONCLUSION The remarkable use of imaging and occurrence of injury among these highly vulnerable and frequently encountered individuals compels further study to refine clinical practices through the development of evidence-based, effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baker H Hamilton
- Department of Emergency Medicine, NYU-Langone Medical Center/Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, New York
| | | | | | - Ryan P McCormack
- Department of Emergency Medicine, NYU-Langone Medical Center/Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, New York
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McCormack RP, Williams AR, Rotrosen J, Ross S, Caplan AL. Care for patients with grave alcohol use disorders - Authors' reply. Lancet 2013; 382:1877. [PMID: 24315176 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(13)62622-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan P McCormack
- Bellevue Hospital, OBV 345A, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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