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Patel P, Wells MT, Wethington E, Shapiro M, Parvez Y, Kapadia SN, Talal AH. United States Provider Experiences with Telemedicine for Hepatitis C Treatment: A Nationwide Survey. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.05.12.24307239. [PMID: 38798476 PMCID: PMC11118592 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.12.24307239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination requires treatment access expansion, especially for underserved populations. Telehealth has the potential to improve HCV treatment access, although data are limited on its incorporation into standard clinical practice. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional, e-mail survey of 598 US HCV treatment providers who had valid email addresses and 1) were located in urban areas and had written ≥20 prescriptions for HCV treatment to US Medicare beneficiaries in 2019-20 or 2) were located in non-urban areas and wrote any HCV prescriptions in 2019-20. Through email, we notified providers of a self-administered electronic 28-item survey of clinical strategies and attitudes about telemedicine for HCV. Results We received 86 responses (14% response rate), of which 75 used telemedicine for HCV in 2022. Of those 75, 24% were gastroenterologists/hepatologists, 23% general medicine, 17% infectious diseases, and 32% non-physicians. Most (82%) referred patients to commercial laboratories, and 85% had medications delivered directly to patients. Overwhelmingly, respondents (92%) felt that telehealth increases healthcare access, and 76% reported that it promotes or is neutral for treatment completion. Factors believed to be "extremely" or "very" important for telehealth use included patient access to technology (86%); patients' internet access (74%); laboratory access (76%); reimbursement for video visits (74%) and audio-only visits (66%). Non-physician licensing and liability statutes were rated "extremely" or "very" important by 43% and 44%, respectively. Conclusions Providers felt that telehealth increases HCV treatment access. Major limitations were technological requirements, reimbursement, and access to ancillary services. These findings support the importance of digital equity and literacy to achieve HCV elimination goals.
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Lv R, Lu Y, Xiang W, Meng M, Li S. Chronic viral hepatitis C micro-elimination program using telemedicine in Guigang city. J Viral Hepat 2024; 31:208-215. [PMID: 38326936 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) represents a formidable menace to human health, necessitating urgent attention. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of HCV health management in the city of Guigang which consists of five districts, employing a comprehensive multi-modal approach. The study systematically carried out HCV screening in Guigang city which consists of five districts, such as Gangbei District, Gangnan District, Guiping District, Qintang District, and Pingnan District from 1 January 2016 to 30 December 2022. The target population consisted of individuals residing in these aforementioned districts, falling within the age range of 30-75 years. A multidisciplinary HCV management team was established to deliver anti-HCV screening, diagnosis, and direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy. The primary outcome of interest was the achievement of sustained virologic response (SVR). A total of 2489 individuals were included as the target population, with 1694 individuals residing in Gangbei District, 202 in Gangnan District, 111 in Qintang District, 167 in Pingnan District, and 315 in Guiping District. Out of these individuals, 2478 were subjected to anti-HCV screening. The screening rates varied across the districts, ranging from a peak of 99.55% in Guigang City to a nadir of 98.41% in Guiping District. Remarkably, within Guigang City, a noteworthy enhancement was observed in the HCV-RNA diagnosis rate from 23.4% prior to program implementation to a remarkable 100% following 7 years of intervention and management. Furthermore, the diagnosis and treatment coordination rate experienced a substantial improvement, rising from 26.8% before program inception to 80%. Importantly, a total of 1180 individuals affected by hepatitis C were successfully cured, equating to a 100% cure rate. Logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association between serological status and factors such as Aging, bilirubin, and glutamic oxalacetic transaminase. The findings from our investigation unveil a pioneering HCV management model, exemplified by the Guigang model, which has contributed crucially to HCV microclearance efforts and serves as an invaluable reference for future initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riying Lv
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guigang City People's Hospital, Guigang, Guangxi, China
| | - Yanmeng Lu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guigang City People's Hospital, Guigang, Guangxi, China
| | - Wenyao Xiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guigang City People's Hospital, Guigang, Guangxi, China
| | - Menglan Meng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guigang City People's Hospital, Guigang, Guangxi, China
| | - Shixiong Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Guigang City People's Hospital, Guigang, Guangxi, China
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Lam V, Dimaculangan C. Impact of an interdisciplinary patient care model and routine screening on clinical outcomes in patients with hepatitis C. Innov Pharm 2023; 14:10.24926/iip.v14i2.5114. [PMID: 38025170 PMCID: PMC10653720 DOI: 10.24926/iip.v14i2.5114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Testing for hepatitis C in hospital emergency departments (ED) and linkage to care to clinics have been reported to provide the most opportunity for screening patients and facilitating continuum of care. Treatment model initiatives have expanded to include telehealth services and open treatment capacity to non-physician providers, such as pharmacists. This study's objective was to assess the impact of implementing automated routine screening for hepatitis C virus (HCV) and a clinical pharmacist into the interdisciplinary care model on HCV diagnosis and treatment outcomes. This retrospective cohort study compared outcomes in a pre-intervention and post-intervention group. Patients were screened and diagnosed with HCV at Jersey City Medical Center (JCMC) and completed linkage to care at JCMC Center for Comprehensive Care. Interventions were the implementation of automated routine HCV screening in the ED and addition of a clinical pharmacist to the interdisciplinary patient care model. Primary endpoints analyzed the number of patients who have achieved sustained virologic response after 12 weeks of treatment (SVR12) and patients who have completed treatment with no reported record of SVR12. Secondary endpoints analyzed the number of patients lost to follow-up, appointment type, time spent in appointments, and clinical pharmacist specialist interventions. Data was collected as categorical variables and chi-squared tests assessed if there were differences between the two samples. Data was collected from 46 patients in the pre-intervention group and 37 patients in the post-intervention group. Patients consisted of mostly males. Ages ranged from 27 to 83 years old. Race included Black, White, Asian, and Other. This study's results showed the positive impact on implementation of routine screening, telehealth services, and an interdisciplinary team approach to HCV diagnosis and management. Given the timeframe, it also showed the potential positive impact on these interventions during a global pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christine Dimaculangan
- Pharmacy Practice and Administration, Rutgers Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy; Jersey City Medical Center
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Muftah AA, Banala C, Raasikh T, Jamali T, Bustamante G, Cholankeril G, Kanwal F, Flores A, Hernaez R. Telehealth interventions in patients with chronic liver diseases: A systematic review. Hepatology 2023; 78:179-194. [PMID: 36632994 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Telehealth interventions may improve access to care, disease-specific, and quality outcomes in chronic liver diseases (CLDs). We aimed to systematically evaluate outcomes of telehealth interventions in CLDs. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used key terms and searched PubMed/EMBASE from inception to January 10, 2022. Two authors independently screened abstracts. Disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer. We included any type of CLD, including posttransplant patients, and extracted outcomes as defined by authors for each etiology of CLD (sustained virological response in HCV or weight loss in NAFLD). Meta-analysis was not performed because of the heterogeneity of data. Quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for observational studies and the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for clinical trials. RESULTS Of 4250 studies screened, 43 met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 28 reported HCV treatment outcomes. All studies showed no statistically significant differences between sustained virological response rates in TH groups compared with control groups or historic cohorts. Eight studies evaluating liver transplant-related processes and outcomes demonstrated improved rates of transplant evaluation and referrals and decreased short-term readmission rates. Three randomized controlled trials and 1 observational study on NAFLD showed improved weight loss outcomes. One retrospective study showed reduced mortality risk in CLD patients with at least 1 TH encounter. CONCLUSIONS TH interventions in patients with CLDs consistently show equivalent or improved clinical outcomes compared with traditional encounters. TH in CLDs can bridge the gap in access while maintaining the quality of care for underserved populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah A Muftah
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Chaitra Banala
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Taaj Raasikh
- Department of Gastroenterology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Taher Jamali
- Division of Gastroenterology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | | | - George Cholankeril
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Fasiha Kanwal
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Section of Gastroenterology, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Avegail Flores
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Section of Gastroenterology, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ruben Hernaez
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Section of Gastroenterology, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Jain R, Tobey M. The Indian Health Service can meet its goals for hepatitis C virus treatment through telehealth expansion. J Rural Health 2023; 39:355-357. [PMID: 36210510 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Radhika Jain
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew Tobey
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Dong X, Meng S, Chen D. How does the Internet enhance the subjective well-being of elderly individuals in China? Front Psychol 2022; 13:1036169. [PMID: 36329732 PMCID: PMC9622754 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1036169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although several studies have explored the relationship between the Internet and elderly individuals, little is known about whether and how the Internet affects elderly individuals’ subjective well-being (SWB) from multiple perspectives. This study examines the effects of the Internet on physical satisfaction and life satisfaction and explores the potential mechanisms by which the Internet produces its effects on elderly individuals. Using nationally representative data from the China General Social Survey (CGSS), this study finds that the Internet has a significant positive impact on physical satisfaction and life satisfaction of the elderly in China. The mechanism analysis shows that the Internet can improve the level of health insurance participation, which we interpret as potential mechanisms through which the Internet positively affects physical satisfaction among elderly individuals. Correspondingly, the Internet affects life satisfaction of elderly individuals by influencing social networks. Further heterogeneity tests find that the effect is stronger for urban areas, male and high human capital samples. This study highlights the important micro effects of the Internet and provides a reference for exploring the mechanism of the Internet affecting SWB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuebing Dong
- China Academy of West Region Development, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shunjie Meng
- School of Economics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Shunjie Meng,
| | - Danbo Chen
- School of Urban and Regional Science, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Shanghai, China
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Nevola R, Rosato V, Conturso V, Perillo P, Le Pera T, Del Vecchio F, Mastrocinque D, Pappalardo A, Imbriani S, Delle Femine A, Piacevole A, Claar E. Can Telemedicine Optimize the HCV Care Cascade in People Who Use Drugs? Features of an Innovative Decentralization Model and Comparison with Other Micro-Elimination Strategies. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11060805. [PMID: 35741326 PMCID: PMC9219847 DOI: 10.3390/biology11060805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The global fight against the hepatitis C virus (HCV) involves the processes of micro-elimination of populations at risk. People who use drugs (PWUDs) represent a viral reservoir, due to the historical challenge in treating this population. In particular, the difficulties in the linkage to care of these patients, as well as low adherence to therapies and follow-up and the risk of re-infection make PWUDs a “difficult-to-treat” population. In view of this, the testing of effective management and treatment models for chronic HCV infection in PWUDs is crucial for promoting its elimination. Telemedicine could be a successful solution in the integration and decentralization of care services. Abstract People who use drugs (PWUDs) are a crucial population in the global fight against viral hepatitis. The difficulties in linkage to care, the low adherence to therapy, the frequent loss to follow-up and the high risk of re-infection make the eradication process of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) really hard in this viral reservoir. Several management and treatment models have been tested with the aim of optimizing the HCV care cascade in PWUDs. Models of decentralization of the care process and integration of services seem to provide the highest success rates. Giving this, telemedicine could favor the decentralization of diagnostic-therapeutic management, key for the implementation of linkage to care, reduction of waiting times, optimization of adherence and results and reduction of the costs. The purpose of this literature review is to examine the role and possible impact of telemedicine in optimizing the HCV care cascade, comparing the different care models that have shown to improve the linkage to care and therapeutic adherence in this special population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Nevola
- Hepatology Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy; (V.R.); (P.P.); (D.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.)
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy; (S.I.); (A.D.F.); (A.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-081-566-4173
| | - Valerio Rosato
- Hepatology Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy; (V.R.); (P.P.); (D.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Vincenza Conturso
- Service for Addiction, DS32, ASL Napoli 1, 80147 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (T.L.P.); (F.D.V.)
| | - Pasquale Perillo
- Hepatology Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy; (V.R.); (P.P.); (D.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Teresa Le Pera
- Service for Addiction, DS32, ASL Napoli 1, 80147 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (T.L.P.); (F.D.V.)
| | - Ferdinando Del Vecchio
- Service for Addiction, DS32, ASL Napoli 1, 80147 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (T.L.P.); (F.D.V.)
| | - Davide Mastrocinque
- Hepatology Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy; (V.R.); (P.P.); (D.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Annalisa Pappalardo
- Hepatology Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy; (V.R.); (P.P.); (D.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Simona Imbriani
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy; (S.I.); (A.D.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Augusto Delle Femine
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy; (S.I.); (A.D.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessia Piacevole
- Internal Medicine Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy; (S.I.); (A.D.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Ernesto Claar
- Hepatology Unit, Ospedale Evangelico Betania, 80147 Naples, Italy; (V.R.); (P.P.); (D.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.)
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Factors Associated with the Refusal of Direct-Acting Antiviral Agents for the Treatment of Hepatitis C in Taiwan. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58040521. [PMID: 35454360 PMCID: PMC9031294 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58040521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAA) are a safe and highly effective treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, the uptake of DAA treatment remains a challenge. This study aims to examine the reasons for DAA refusal among HCV patients covered by the Taiwan National Health Insurance system. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study covered the period from January 2009 to December 2019 and was conducted at a single hepatitis treatment center in Taiwan. This study involved chart reviews and phone-based surveys to confirm treatment status and refusal causes. To confirm treatment status, subjects with HCV without treatment records were phone-contacted to confirm treatment status. Patients who did not receive treatment were invited back for treatment. If the patient refused, the reason for refusal was discussed. Results: A total of 3566 patients were confirmed with DAA treatment; 418 patients (179 patients who were lost to contact or refused the survey and 239 patients who completed the survey of DAA refusal) were included in the no-DAA-therapy group. Factors associated with receiving DAAs were hemoglobin levels, hepatitis B virus co-infection, and regular gastroenterology visits. Meanwhile, male sex, platelet levels, and primary care physician visits were associated with DAA refusal. The leading causes of treatment refusal were multiple comorbidities, low health literacy, restricted access to hospitals, nursing home residence, and old age. The rate of DAA refusal remains high (10%). Conclusions: The reasons for treatment refusal are multifactorial, and addressing them requires complex interventions.
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Pharmacological Adherence Behavior Changes during COVID-19 Outbreak in a Portugal Patient Cohort. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031135. [PMID: 35162159 PMCID: PMC8835016 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Concerns, behaviours, and beliefs influence how people deal with COVID-19. Understanding the factors influencing adherence behaviour is of utmost importance to develop tailored interventions to increase adherence within this context. Hence, we aimed to understand how COVID-19 affected adherence behaviour in Portugal. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between 1 March and 3 April 2021. Descriptive statistics were performed, as well as univariable and multivariable regression models. Of the 1202 participants, 476 who were taking at least one medication prescribed by the doctor were selected. Of these, 78.2% were female, and the mean age was 40.3 ± 17.9 years old. About 74.2% were classified as being highly adherent. During the pandemic, 8.2% of participants reported that their adherence improved, while 5.9% had worsened adherence results. Compared with being single, widowers were 3 times more prone to be less adherent (OR:3.390 [1.106–10.390], p = 0.033). Comorbid patients were 1.8 times (OR:1.824 [1.155–2.881], p = 0.010) more prone to be less adherent. Participants who reported that COVID-19 negatively impacted their adherence were 5.6 times more prone to be less adherent, compared with those who reported no changes (OR:5.576 [2.420–12.847], p < 0.001). None of the other variables showed to be significantly associated with pharmacological adherence.
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Telemedicine as a Means to an End, Not an End in Itself. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12010122. [PMID: 35054515 PMCID: PMC8777880 DOI: 10.3390/life12010122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Telemedicine (TM)—the management of disease at a distance—has potential usefulness for patients with advanced respiratory disease. Underscoring this potential is the dramatic expansion of its applications in clinical medicine. However, since clinical studies testing this intervention often provide heterogeneous results, its role in the medical management of respiratory disorders remains inconclusive. A major problem in establishing TM’s effectiveness is that it is not a single intervention; rather, it includes a number of divergent diagnostic and therapeutic modalities—and each must be tested separately. Reflecting the discord between the need for further documentation of its approaches and effectiveness and its rapid utilization without this needed information, a major challenge is the lack of international guidelines for its integration, regulation, operational plans, and guidance for professionals. Tailored TM, with increased flexibility to address differing healthcare contexts, has the potential to improve access to and quality of services while reducing costs and direct input by health professionals. We should view TM as a tool to aid healthcare professionals in managing their patients with respiratory diseases rather than as a stand-alone substitute to traditional medical care. As such, TM is a means rather than an end.
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O'Brien M, Daws R, Amin P, Lee K. Utilizing Telemedicine and Modified Fibrosis Staging Protocols to Maintain Treatment Initiation and Adherence Among Hepatitis C Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Prim Care Community Health 2022; 13:21501319221108000. [PMID: 35748428 PMCID: PMC9234933 DOI: 10.1177/21501319221108000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the decline in Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)
screening and treatment globally in part due to lockdowns and restrictions at
healthcare centers. The goal of this retrospective cohort study was to assess
the effectiveness of an updated workflow implemented at Boston Medical Center
(BMC) HCV clinics. Revised workflow incorporated appointments via telemedicine,
transitioning to blood test-based fibrosis scoring, and delivering medication by
mail to mitigate the lack of in-person services. We compared 2 cohorts of
patients who attended at least the initial intake appointment at BMCHCV clinics:
170 before the pandemic and 133 after the pandemic. Outcome variables included
treatment starts, fibrosis lab tests completed, appointment attendance, and SVR
achievement. Proportions for outcome variables were compared between groups by
use of χ2 and 2-sample t-tests where appropriate.
Our results showed a 14.43% decrease in completing fibrosis scoring tests
(P-value: <.001) and a 15.21% decrease in medication
initiation (P-value: <.001) among the patients who initiated
care during the pandemic (modified workflow group). Furthermore, we found a
18.56% decrease in sustained virologic response (SVR) among the modified
workflow group when compared to the controls. Overall, these results align with
current trends of patients’ decreasing engagement in HCV care but show higher
retention than other published data. Furthermore, these figures support how
appointments via telemedicine, transitioning to blood test-based fibrosis
scoring, and medication delivery by mail can serve as tools to increase access
to HCV care and successful HCV treatment completion even after COVID
restrictions are lifted.
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12
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Impact of Internet Use on Mental Health among Elderly Individuals: A Difference-in-Differences Study Based on 2016-2018 CFPS Data. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:ijerph19010101. [PMID: 35010361 PMCID: PMC8749999 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The number of elderly Internet users has increased significantly in the past few years. However, the impact of Internet use on mental health remains unclear. In this study, we performed a difference-in-differences analysis using data from the 2016 and 2018 waves of the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) to evaluate the impact of Internet usage on mental health among elderly individuals. A total of 5031 validated respondents were included to explore the relationship between Internet use and reduced levels of depression as well as improved life satisfaction among elderly individuals. The results showed that Internet use significantly reduced depression levels. Unexpectedly, Internet use was not found to improve life satisfaction. Moreover, discontinuing Internet use was not significantly associated with improvements in depression or life satisfaction. More research is needed to fully elucidate the relationship between Internet use and depression levels, as well as life satisfaction among elderly individuals.
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Gheorghe DN, Popescu DM, Salan A, Boldeanu MV, Ionele CM, Pitru A, Turcu-Stiolica A, Camen A, Florescu C, Rogoveanu I, Surlin P. Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy Could Improve the Periodontal Inflammatory Status in Patients with Periodontitis and Chronic Hepatitis C. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10225275. [PMID: 34830557 PMCID: PMC8619210 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10225275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) is the first essential step for the management of any periodontitis patient. This study aims to evaluate the impact of NSPT on pro-inflammatory mediators’ regulation and on clinical parameters in periodontitis patients who suffer from chronic hepatitis C. At baseline, selected patients were clinically evaluated for their periodontal status. A subsequent quantitative assessment of C-reactive protein and pentraxin-3 in samples of gingival fluid was performed by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Afterwards, NSPT was performed. Three months after NSPT, the clinical and ELISA assessments were repeated. The results show an improvement of the clinical parameters in periodontitis patients at the three-month recall. In chronic hepatitis C patients with periodontitis, the gingival fluid levels of pro-inflammatory markers reduced significantly. The targeted markers also expressed significant correlations with the clinical parameters used for the assessment of periodontitis’ severity. The results suggest that, while chronic hepatitis C patients exhibited a more negative periodontal status at baseline as compared to non-hepatitis ones, NSPT is effective in decreasing the local periodontal inflammatory reaction and in proving the periodontal status of this type of patients. Given the limitation of the study, periodontal screening and NSPT should be included in the integrated therapeutical approach of chronic hepatitis C patients, for its impact on the local inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorin Nicolae Gheorghe
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (D.N.G.); (P.S.)
| | - Dora Maria Popescu
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (D.N.G.); (P.S.)
- Correspondence: (D.M.P.); (M.V.B.)
| | - Alex Salan
- Department of Oral Surgery, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (A.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Mihail Virgil Boldeanu
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
- Correspondence: (D.M.P.); (M.V.B.)
| | - Claudiu Marinel Ionele
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (C.M.I.); (I.R.)
| | - Allma Pitru
- Department of Oral Pathology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| | - Adina Turcu-Stiolica
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics and Statistical Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| | - Adrian Camen
- Department of Oral Surgery, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (A.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Cristina Florescu
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| | - Ion Rogoveanu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (C.M.I.); (I.R.)
| | - Petra Surlin
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (D.N.G.); (P.S.)
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Liu J, Zhang Y, Wu B, Wang S, Bin-Chia Wu D, You R. Cost-Effectiveness of Testing for NS5A Resistance to Optimize Treatment of Elbasvir/Grazoprevir for Chronic Hepatitis C in China. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:717504. [PMID: 34721016 PMCID: PMC8554024 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.717504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Baseline presence of nonstructural protein 5A (NS5A) resistance-associated variants can attenuate the efficacy of new direct-acting antivirals. A potential method to attain the higher efficacy would be to screen for NS5A polymorphisms prior to the initiation of therapy and to adjust the treatment length based on the test results. However, baseline testing adds additional costs and it is unclear whether this would represent a high value strategy for chronic hepatitis C in China. Methods: A hybrid model compared 1) standard 12-weeks treatment (no testing), 2) shortened 8-weeks treatment (no testing), and 3) baseline testing with 12-/8-weeks treatment for those with/without NS5A polymorphisms from a lifetime Chinese health care payer perspective. All model inputs were retrieved from clinical trials and publically available literature. And sensitivity analyses were also conducted to assess the impact of uncertainty. Results: Baseline testing was associated with overall increase in total health care cost of USD 13.50 and in QALYs of 0.002 compared with standard 12-weeks treatment (no testing), yielded in an ICER of USD 6750/QALY gained. Scenario analyses suggested that shortened 8-weeks treatment (no testing) was found to be lower costs and great QALYs compared with other two strategies when the sustained virologic response (SVR) rate increased to 95%. Sensitivity analyses indicated that the results were robust. Conclusions: Our results suggest prior assessment of NS5A sensitivity followed by optimizing treatment duration was an economic strategy. In addition, shortened 8-weeks treatment (no testing) was shown to be dominant with the SVR rate increased to 95%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Sen Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - David Bin-Chia Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ruxu You
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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15
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Development and Validation of a Questionnaire to Measure Medication Adherence to Direct-Acting Agents in Patients with Hepatitis C. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13101683. [PMID: 34683976 PMCID: PMC8540644 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to develop a new self-report tool (HCV-AD) measuring adherence factors, intentional or unintentional, during Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) treatment with direct-acting antivirals (DAA) aiming to achieve high efficacy, otherwise resulting in drug resistance and treatment failure. Two phases were conducted: in the first phase, items were generated based on an extensive literature review, and, in the second phase, a prospective cohort study was conducted using HCV patients from Gastroenterology Department from University County Hospital of Craiova, Romania (n = 222), to evaluate the validity and reliability of the questionnaire. A number of 19 items were generated following a systematic review and through expert opinion. The internal consistency reliability was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha. The construct validity was assessed using correlations with two other instruments: visual analog scale (VAS) and medication possession ratio (MPR). The final questionnaire (HCV-AD10) was derived through exploratory factor analysis, with 82% of total variance explained. This instrument appeared as a reliable and valid measure for medication adherence, with Cronbach’s alpha (0.867) and significant high positive correlations between adherence scores calculated with HCV-AD10 and VAS (ρ = 0.61, p < 0.001) or with HCV-AD10 and MPR (ρ = 0.75, p < 0.001). This research would make a worthwhile contribution to HCV management.
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Al-Hazmi AM, Sheerah HA, Arafa A. Perspectives on Telemedicine during the Era of COVID-19; What Can Saudi Arabia Do? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:10617. [PMID: 34682363 PMCID: PMC8535869 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182010617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has represented a challenge to medical practice in Saudi Arabia and worldwide. In contrary to the increasing numbers of COVID-19 patients, there was a limitation in the capacity of medical practices and access to healthcare. A growing body of evidence from healthcare settings in Saudi Arabia and worldwide has suggested a possible role for telemedicine in responding to this evolving need. Telemedicine can be used for triage, direct care, follow-up, and consultation. It could be delivered through synchronous, asynchronous, and mixed approaches. While telemedicine has several advantages, such as accessibility and cost-effectiveness, its diagnostic reliability should be further investigated. The Saudi Vision (2030) has drawn up a roadmap to invest in digital healthcare during the coming decade; however, some barriers related to using telemedicine in Saudi healthcare settings, including cultural issues and technical difficulties, should be openly discussed. In addition, before putting telemedicine in practice on a wide scale in Saudi Arabia, more efforts should be carried out to issue updated legislation and regulations, discuss and respond to ethical concerns, and ensure data security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mohsen Al-Hazmi
- Health Promotion and Health Education Research Chair, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (A.M.A.-H.); (A.A.)
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haytham A. Sheerah
- Health Promotion and Health Education Research Chair, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (A.M.A.-H.); (A.A.)
- Department of Preventive Cardiology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Suita 564-8565, Japan
- Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Ahmed Arafa
- Health Promotion and Health Education Research Chair, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia; (A.M.A.-H.); (A.A.)
- Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt
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17
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Dopelt K, Avni N, Haimov-Sadikov Y, Golan I, Davidovitch N. Telemedicine and eHealth Literacy in the Era of COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Peripheral Clinic in Israel. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9556. [PMID: 34574480 PMCID: PMC8464820 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic mandating isolation, quarantine, and social distancing has accelerated and expanded the use of telemedicine. This study examines the extent of the use of telemedicine and the relationship between eHealth literacy and satisfaction with using telemedicine during the pandemic. A total of 156 participants from a clinic in a peripheral community in southern Israel completed an online questionnaire. We found that 85% knew how to use the internet for health information, but only one third felt safe using it to make health decisions. Furthermore, 93% used the internet for technical needs, such as renewing prescriptions or making a doctor's appointment. Even lower use for telemedicine was found (38%) for consultation or treatment sessions. A positive association was found between eHealth literacy and satisfaction variables with using telemedicine (rp = 0.39, p < 0.001). Although respondents understood the benefits of telemedicine, they were not satisfied nor interested in online sessions after the epidemic's end, preferring a meeting involving personal interaction. Young people and academics benefit more from telemedicine, thereby creating usage gaps and potentially increasing existing inequality. We recommend developing intervention programs, especially among vulnerable populations, to strengthen eHealth literacy and remove barriers causing skepticism about the use of telemedicine during and after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Dopelt
- Department of Public Health, Ashkelon Academic College, 12 Ben Tzvi St., Ashkelon 78211, Israel; (N.A.); (Y.H.-S.); (I.G.)
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel;
| | - Nofar Avni
- Department of Public Health, Ashkelon Academic College, 12 Ben Tzvi St., Ashkelon 78211, Israel; (N.A.); (Y.H.-S.); (I.G.)
| | - Yana Haimov-Sadikov
- Department of Public Health, Ashkelon Academic College, 12 Ben Tzvi St., Ashkelon 78211, Israel; (N.A.); (Y.H.-S.); (I.G.)
| | - Iris Golan
- Department of Public Health, Ashkelon Academic College, 12 Ben Tzvi St., Ashkelon 78211, Israel; (N.A.); (Y.H.-S.); (I.G.)
| | - Nadav Davidovitch
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel;
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