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Boris RS. Editorial Comment on "Utilization of a Third-Party Partnership in Tele-genetic Risk Assessment Program in Genitourinary Oncology". Urology 2024:S0090-4295(24)00490-4. [PMID: 38936625 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2024.06.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
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Cuaron JJ, McBride S, Chino F, Parikh D, Kollmeier M, Pastrana G, Wagner K, Tamas A, Gomez D. Patient Safety and Satisfaction With Fully Remote Management of Radiation Oncology Care. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2416570. [PMID: 38865123 PMCID: PMC11170299 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.16570] [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: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Patients of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, New York, are now offered a choice of either in-person or remote telehealth visits for radiation oncology care. However, safety and satisfaction among patients receiving treatment with fully remote physician management is unclear. Objective To analyze patient safety and satisfaction, financial implications, and environmental consequences associated with fully remote management among a cohort of patients treated with radiotherapy. Design, Setting, and Participants This single-institution retrospective cohort study was performed at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, with patients treated with radiation who opted for fully remote management between October 1, 2020, and October 31, 2022. Data on patient safety events were prospectively collected with an in-house quality improvement reporting system. Patient satisfaction surveys were distributed electronically before, during, and after treatment. Patient transportation costs and environmental consequences were estimated based on differences in travel distance. Data analysis was performed from March 14 through September 19, 2023. Exposure Radiotherapy with fully remote physician management. Main Outcomes and Measures Satisfaction rates among patients opting for fully remote management were analyzed via surveys administered electronically after visits with clinicians. Patient safety events, defined as staff-reported actual events and near misses that had the potential to affect patient care, were reviewed. Rates and types of safety events were analyzed and compared with patients treated by onsite clinicians. Distances between patient home zip codes and treatment site locations were compared with estimated cost savings and decreased emissions. Results This study included 2817 patients who received radiation oncology care with fully remote physician management. The median age of patients was 65 (range, 9-99) years, and more than half were men (1467 [52.1%]). Of the 764 safety events reported, 763 (99.9%) did not reach patients or caused no harm to patients. Nearly all survey respondents (451 [97.6%]) rated patient satisfaction as good to very good across all domains. For treatment with fully remote physician management, out-of-pocket cost savings totaled $612 912.71 ($466.45 per patient) and decreased carbon dioxide emissions by 174 metric tons. Conclusions and Relevance In this study, radiation oncology care provided by fully remote clinicians was safe and feasible, with no serious patient events. High patient satisfaction, substantial cost savings, and decreased environmental consequences were observed. These findings support the continuation of a fully remote management option for select patients in the post-COVID-19 era.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J. Cuaron
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Sean McBride
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Fumiko Chino
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Dhwani Parikh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Marisa Kollmeier
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Gerri Pastrana
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Keri Wagner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Andrew Tamas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Daniel Gomez
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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Hung TKW, Verdini NP, Gilliland JL, Chimonas S, Cracchiolo JR, Li Y, Pfister DG, Gillespie EF. When Is Telemedicine Appropriate in the Management of Head and Neck Cancer? A Mixed-Methods Assessment Among Patients and Physicians. JCO Oncol Pract 2024:OP2300608. [PMID: 38684040 DOI: 10.1200/op.23.00608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Evidence suggests that oncology patients are satisfied with and sometimes prefer telemedicine compared with in-person visits; however, data are scarce on when telemedicine is appropriate for specific cancer populations. In this study, we aim to identify factors that influence patient experience and appropriateness of telemedicine use among a head and neck cancer (HNC) population. METHODS We performed a mixed-methods study at a multisite cancer center. First, we surveyed patients with HNC and analyzed factors that may influence their telemedicine experience using multivariate regression. We then conducted focus groups among HNC oncologists (n = 15) to evaluate their perception on appropriate use of telemedicine. RESULTS From January to December 2020, we collected 1,071 completed surveys (response rate 24%), of which 551 first unique surveys were analyzed. About half of all patients (56%) reported telemedicine as "same or better" compared with in-person visits, whereas the other half (44%) reported "not as good or unsure." In multivariate analyses, patients with thyroid cancer were more likely to find telemedicine "same or better" (adjusted odds ratio, 2.08 [95% CI, 1.35 to 3.25]) compared with other HNC populations (mucosal/salivary HNC). Consistently, physician focus group noted that patients with thyroid cancer were particularly suited for telemedicine because of less emphasis on in-person examinations. Physicians also underscored factors that influence telemedicine use, including clinical suitability (treatment status, visit purpose, examination necessity), patient benefits (travel time, access), and barriers (technology, rapport-building). CONCLUSION Patient experience with telemedicine is diverse among the HNC population. Notably, patients with thyroid cancer had overall better experience and were identified to be more appropriate for telemedicine compared with other patients with HNC. Future research that optimizes patient experience and selection is needed to ensure successful integration of telemedicine into routine oncology practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony K W Hung
- Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY
| | - Nicholas P Verdini
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Jaime L Gilliland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Susan Chimonas
- Center for Health Policy and Outcomes, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | | | - Yuelin Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - David G Pfister
- Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY
| | - Erin F Gillespie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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Toni E, Ayatollahi H. An insight into the use of telemedicine technology for cancer patients during the Covid-19 pandemic: a scoping review. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2024; 24:104. [PMID: 38641567 PMCID: PMC11027268 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-024-02507-1] [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: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of telemedicine technology has significantly increased in recent years, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. This study aimed to investigate the use of telemedicine technology for cancer patients during the Covid-19 pandemic. METHODS This was a scoping review conducted in 2023. Various databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Ovid, IEEE Xplore, ProQuest, Embase, and Google Scholar search engine were searched. All quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies published in English between 2020 and 2022 were included. Finally, the needed data were extracted, and the results were synthesized and reported narratively. RESULTS A total of 29 articles were included in this review. The results showed that teleconsultation, televisit, and telerehabilitation were common telemedicine services, and video conferencing and telephone were common technologies used in these studies. In most cases, patients and healthcare providers preferred these services compared to the face-to-face consultations due to their convenience and advantages. Furthermore, the findings revealed that in terms of clinical outcomes, telemedicine could effectively reduce anxiety, pain, sleep disorders, and hospital admission rates. CONCLUSION The findings provided valuable insights into the various telemedicine technologies, services, users' perspectives, and clinical outcomes in cancer patients during the Covid-19 pandemic. Overall, the positive outcomes and users' satisfaction showed that the use of telemedicine technology can be expanded, particularly in cancer care. Future research needs to investigate both clinical and non-clinical effectiveness of using various telemedicine services and technologies for improving cancer care delivery, which can help to develop more successful strategies for implementing this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmaeel Toni
- Student Research Committee, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Haleh Ayatollahi
- Health Management and Economics Research Center, Health Management Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Sauls R, Crowder SL, James C, Khimani F, Stern M. Quality of life in the digital age: young adult hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients and healthcare providers' views of telehealth. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:270. [PMID: 38578444 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08482-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic shifted the healthcare field from in-person clinic visits to virtual-based telehealth appointments. This study explored young adult (YA) hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patient and physician communication preferences and quality of life. METHODS One researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with n = 10 YA HSCT patients and n = 10 healthcare providers (HPs). HPs included physicians (n = 5) and advanced practice provider (APP) (nurse practitioners and physician assistants) (n = 5). Interviews lasted approximately 10-15 min, were held over Zoom®, and were audio-recorded. Interviews were professionally transcribed verbatim, and two independent researchers conducted a thematic analysis using Dedoose®. RESULTS Common themes included the following: (1) convenience, (2) improved communication, (3) technology issues, and (4) quality of life for patients and physicians. In general, most patients (n = 7; 70%) preferred in-person visits over telehealth for initial appointments, stating they chose the "social connection" and "engagement" associated with in-person visits. For "check-ins" and follow-up appointments (n = 5; 50%), patients preferred hybrid appointments. Physicians (n = 4; 80%) preferred telehealth stating it was "convenient," "timesaving," and improved "compliance." In contrast, all APP staff (n = 5; 100%) preferred in-person visits, stating in-person improved "relationships" with patients and was more "convenient" than using electronic devices for telehealth. CONCLUSION Providers differed in preference. APP personnel preferred in-person visits and HSCT physicians preferred telehealth appointments. YA HSCT patients preferred in-person for initial appointments and hybrid clinic visits for follow-up appointments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Sauls
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
- Department of Non-Therapeutic Research Operations, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Sylvia L Crowder
- Department of Health and Outcomes of Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Christy James
- Department of Non-Therapeutic Research Operations, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Farhad Khimani
- Department of Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Marilyn Stern
- Department of Health and Outcomes of Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA.
- College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
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Sharifzadeh Y, Breen WG, Harmsen WS, Amundson AC, Garda AE, Routman DM, Waddle MR, Merrell KW, Hallemeier CL, Laack NN, Kollengode A, Corbin KS. Integration of Telemedicine Consultation Into a Tertiary Radiation Oncology Department: Predictors of Use, Treatment Yield, and Effects on Patient Population. JCO Clin Cancer Inform 2024; 8:e2300239. [PMID: 38630957 PMCID: PMC11161230 DOI: 10.1200/cci.23.00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic led to rapid expansion of telemedicine. The implications of telemedicine have not been rigorously studied in radiation oncology, a procedural specialty. This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of in-person patients (IPPs) and virtual patients (VPs) who presented to a large cancer center before and during the pandemic and to understand variables affecting likelihood of receiving radiotherapy (yield) at our institution. METHODS A total of 17,915 patients presenting for new consultation between 2019 and 2021 were included, stratified by prepandemic and pandemic periods starting March 24, 2020. Telemedicine visits included video and telephone calls. Area deprivation indices (ADIs) were also compared. RESULTS The overall population was 56% male and 93% White with mean age of 63 years. During the pandemic, VPs accounted for 21% of visits, were on average younger than their in-person (IP) counterparts (63.3 years IP v 62.4 VP), and lived further away from clinic (215 miles IP v 402 VP). Among treated VPs, living closer to clinic was associated with higher yield (odds ratio [OR], 0.95; P < .001). This was also seen among IPPs who received treatment (OR, 0.96; P < .001); however, the average distance from clinic was significantly lower for IPPs than VPs (205 miles IP v 349 VP). Specialized radiotherapy (proton and brachytherapy) was used more in VPs. IPPs had higher ADI than VPs. Among VPs, those treated had higher ADI (P < .001). CONCLUSION Patient characteristics and yield were significantly different between IPPs and VPs. Telemedicine increased reach to patients further away from clinic, including from rural or health care-deprived areas, allowing access to specialized radiation oncology care. Telemedicine has the potential to increase the reach of other technical and procedural specialties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - William S. Harmsen
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | | | | | - Mark R. Waddle
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | | | - Nadia N. Laack
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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Freeman JQ, Khwaja A, Zhao F, Nanda R, Olopade OI, Huo D. Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Telemedicine Utilization and Satisfaction Among Breast Cancer Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Methods Analysis. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:651-663. [PMID: 37676974 PMCID: PMC10924050 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Telemedicine has expanded rapidly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data on telemedicine utilization are lacking, and racial/ethnic disparities in utilization and satisfaction are unknown among breast cancer patients. Methods: This was a longitudinal study, with two surveys conducted in 2020 and 2021, among patients enrolled in the Chicago Multiethnic Epidemiologic Breast Cancer Cohort. Telemedicine utilization was modeled using mixed-effects logistic regression. Telemedicine satisfaction, assessed using a 5-point Likert scale, was modeled using mixed-effects proportional odds regression. Qualitative data on satisfaction were coded and analyzed using grounded theory. Results: Of 1,721 respondents, most (70.3%) were White, followed by 23.6% Black, 3.1% Asian, and 3.0% Hispanic. The median duration from breast cancer diagnosis to survey was 5.5 years (interquartile range: 2.7-9.4). In 2020, 59.2% reported telemedicine use; in 2021, 64.9% did, with a statistically significant increase (p < 0.001). Black patients had greater odds of telemedicine use than White patients (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.17-2.05). In 2020, 90.3% reported somewhat-to-extreme satisfaction; in 2021, 91.2% did, with a statistically significant, although clinically small, increase (p = 0.038). There were no racial/ethnic differences in telemedicine satisfaction between Black (AOR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.81-1.35), Asian (AOR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.34-1.16), or Hispanic (AOR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.33-1.21) and White patients. Major themes emerged from the respondents that explained their levels of satisfaction were convenience, safety, specialty dependence, and technical issues. Conclusions: Telemedicine utilization and satisfaction were high among breast cancer patients over time and across races/ethnicities. Telemedicine could have great potential in reducing barriers to care and promoting health equity for breast cancer patients. However, patients' perceived challenges in accessing high-quality virtual care should be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jincong Q. Freeman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Arnaaz Khwaja
- Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Fangyuan Zhao
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Rita Nanda
- Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Olufunmilayo I. Olopade
- Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Dezheng Huo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Pappot H, Steen-Olsen EB, Holländer-Mieritz C. Experiences with Wearable Sensors in Oncology during Treatment: Lessons Learned from Feasibility Research Projects in Denmark. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:405. [PMID: 38396444 PMCID: PMC10887889 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14040405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The fraction of elderly people in the population is growing, the incidence of some cancers is increasing, and the number of available cancer treatments is evolving, causing a challenge to healthcare systems. New healthcare tools are needed, and wearable sensors could partly be potential solutions. The aim of this case report is to describe the Danish research experience with wearable sensors in oncology reporting from three oncological wearable research projects. CASE STUDIES Three planned case studies investigating the feasibility of different wearable sensor solutions during cancer treatment are presented, focusing on study design, population, device, aim, and planned outcomes. Further, two actual case studies performed are reported, focusing on patients included, data collected, results achieved, further activities planned, and strengths and limitations. RESULTS Only two of the three planned studies were performed. In general, patients found the technical issues of wearable sensors too challenging to deal with during cancer treatment. However, at the same time it was demonstrated that a large amount of data could be collected if the framework worked efficiently. CONCLUSION Wearable sensors have the potential to help solve challenges in clinical oncology, but for successful research projects and implementation, a setup with minimal effort on the part of patients is requested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helle Pappot
- Department of Oncology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark (C.H.-M.)
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emma Balch Steen-Olsen
- Department of Oncology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark (C.H.-M.)
| | - Cecilie Holländer-Mieritz
- Department of Oncology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark (C.H.-M.)
- Department of Oncology, Zealand University Hospital, 4700 Naestved, Denmark
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Du Y, Gu Y. The development of evaluation scale of the patient satisfaction with telemedicine: a systematic review. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2024; 24:31. [PMID: 38303031 PMCID: PMC10832124 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-024-02436-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine become more and more popular, patients attempt to use telemedicine to meet personal medical needs. Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of insight into the patient experience. PURPOSE This systematic review aims to explore the measurement factors of patient satisfaction with telemedicine and develop a more comprehensive and systematic scale of patient satisfaction with telemedicine. METHODS In February 2023, a literature search was conducted on the PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science, identifying measurement factors and tools of patient satisfaction with telemedicine. For inclusion, the studies had to have or make a questionnaire about patient satisfaction with telemedicine delivered through video/audio visits in English. The quality of the studies was evaluated according to the Critical Appraisal Tool for Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). The dimensions and items in each tool were also analyzed. RESULTS The initial search showed 14,020 studies. After eliminating duplicates and utilizing inclusion and exclusion criteria, 44 studies were included. This systematic review identified and integrated the measurement factors and develops a scale of patient satisfaction with telemedicine, which was divided into 9 dimensions and consists of 37 items. CONCLUSION Future measurement and evaluation of telemedicine will benefit from scale that was developed in this study, and it will more directly reflecting patient needs when patient satisfaction with telemedicine is evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Du
- Department of Medical Information Technology and Management, Yanjing Medical College, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Gu
- Department of Medical Information Technology and Management, Yanjing Medical College, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Grant MJ, Chiang AC. Telehealth and Outcomes in Patients With Cancer: Data and Innovation. Cancer J 2024; 30:16-21. [PMID: 38265921 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000697] [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: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Despite that telehealth has been crucial to the delivery of oncology care during the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of this care delivery mechanism on outcomes in cancer care has not been rigorously studied relative standard in-person care for patients with cancer. Patient-centered outcomes such as quality of life, patient satisfaction, and symptoms are important outcomes that have been the primary focus of many of the existing studies in this space, yet only a select few have evaluated overall survival and other objective efficacy endpoints. Studies have alluded to positive effects of telehealth on mitigating financial toxicity and enhancing cost-effective care delivery in oncology. Telehealth carries much potential for advancing care for patients with cancer, but future study should focus on additional efficacy endpoints, implementation, and ways to reduce disparities.
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Banbury A, Taylor M, Caffery L, Der Vartanian C, Haydon H, Mendis R, Ng K, Smith A. Consumers' experiences, preferences, and perceptions of effectiveness in using telehealth for cancer care in Australia. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2023; 19:752-761. [PMID: 37712136 DOI: 10.1111/ajco.14002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
AIM COVID-19 accelerated telehealth (video and telephone) use for cancer care to reduce disease exposure and transmission. Understanding consumers' health service delivery needs is required to sustain telehealth activity and develop new models of care. We explored consumers' experiences of telehealth in cancer care and their perspectives on improving and sustaining telehealth uptake in the future. METHODS Exploratory design mixed-methods study using the Model for Assessment of Telemedicine (MAST) framework. Consumers affected by cancer completed an online survey and semistructured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square. Qualitative data from the MAST consumer domain were thematically analyzed. RESULTS There were 1162 survey respondents and 18 interview participants. Video and telephone were used in cancer care with various providers. Telephone was used more frequently. Most respondents (85%) had reliable internet connections for video, however, 36% were not offered a video consultation. Video compared with telephone users were statistically significantly more likely to be satisfied with the quality of their treatment and perceived their consultation achieved as much as an in-person consultation. Telephone users (51%) compared with video users (31%) were more likely to perceive their concerns would have been better understood by their care provider if they were seen in person. Five themes emerged from the qualitative data. Consumers want modality choice, video provides superior experiences versus telephone, consultation mode preference is fluid, and consultation scheduling and administration need further consideration. CONCLUSION Consumers support telehealth in cancer care. Consumers want consultation mode choices based on their needs and purpose of consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Banbury
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Monica Taylor
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Liam Caffery
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Helen Haydon
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Roshni Mendis
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kawai Ng
- Cancer Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony Smith
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Innovative Medical Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Kyaw JYA, Rendall A, Gillespie EF, Roques T, Court L, Lievens Y, Tree AC, Frampton C, Aggarwal A. Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Association Between Radiation Therapy Treatment Volume and Patient Outcomes. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 117:1063-1086. [PMID: 37227363 PMCID: PMC10680429 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Evidence of a volume-outcome association in cancer surgery has shaped the centralization of cancer services; however, it is unknown whether a similar association exists for radiation therapy. The objective of this study was to determine the association between radiation therapy treatment volume and patient outcomes. METHODS AND MATERIALS This systematic review and meta-analysis included studies that compared outcomes of patients who underwent definitive radiation therapy at high-volume radiation therapy facilities (HVRFs) versus low-volume facilities (LVRFs). The systematic review used Ovid MEDLINE and Embase. For the meta-analysis, a random effects model was used. Absolute effects and hazard ratios (HRs) were used to compare patient outcomes. RESULTS The search identified 20 studies assessing the association between radiation therapy volume and patient outcomes. Seven of the studies looked at head and neck cancers (HNCs). The remaining studies covered cervical (4), prostate (4), bladder (3), lung (2), anal (2), esophageal (1), brain (2), liver (1), and pancreatic cancer (1). The meta-analysis demonstrated that HVRFs were associated with a lower chance of death compared with LVRFs (pooled HR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.87- 0.94). HNCs had the strongest evidence of a volume-outcome association for both nasopharyngeal cancer (pooled HR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.62-0.89) and nonnasopharyngeal HNC subsites (pooled HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.75-0.84), followed by prostate cancer (pooled HR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.86-0.98). The remaining cancer types showed weak evidence of an association. The results also demonstrate that some centers defined as HVRFs are undertaking very few procedures per annum (<5 radiation therapy cases per year). CONCLUSIONS An association between radiation therapy treatment volume and patient outcomes exists for most cancer types. Centralization of radiation therapy services should be considered for cancer types with the strongest volume-outcome association, but the effect on equitable access to services needs to be explicitly considered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice Rendall
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Tom Roques
- Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Laurence Court
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yolande Lievens
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ghent University Hospital and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alison C Tree
- Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust and the Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ajay Aggarwal
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom; London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.
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13
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Bajgain B, Rabi S, Ahmed S, Kiryanova V, Fairie P, Santana MJ. Patient-reported experiences and outcomes of virtual care during COVID-19: a systematic review. J Patient Rep Outcomes 2023; 7:126. [PMID: 38038800 PMCID: PMC10692047 DOI: 10.1186/s41687-023-00659-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The onset of COVID-19 has caused an international upheaval of traditional in-person approaches to care delivery. Rapid system-level transitions to virtual care provision restrict the ability of healthcare professionals to evaluate care quality from the patient's perspective. This poses challenges to ensuring that patient-centered care is upheld within virtual environments. To address this, the study's objective was to review how virtual care has impacted patient experiences and outcomes during COVID-19, through the use of patient-reported experience and outcome measures (PREMs and PROMs), respectively. METHODS A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines to evaluate patient responsiveness to virtual care during COVID-19. Using an exhaustive search strategy, relevant peer-reviewed articles published between January 2020 and 2022 were pulled from MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PsychInfo databases. Study quality was independently assessed by two reviewers using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A patient partner was consulted throughout the study to provide feedback and co-conduct the review. RESULTS After removing duplicates, 6048 articles underwent title and abstract review, from which 644 studies were included in the full-text review stage. Following this, 102 articles were included in the study. Studies were published in 20 different countries, were predominantly cross-sectional, and reported on the delivery of virtual care in specialized adult outpatient settings. This review identified 29 validated PREMs and 43 PROMs. Several advantages to virtual care were identified, with patients citing greater convenience, (such as saving travel time and cost, less waiting experienced to see care providers) and increased protection from viral spread. Some studies also reported challenges patients and caregivers faced with virtual care, including feeling rushed during the virtual care appointment, lack of physical contact or examination presenting barriers, difficulty with communicating symptoms, and technology issues. CONCLUSION This review provides supportive evidence of virtual care experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic from patient and caregiver perspectives. This research provides a comprehensive overview of what patient-reported measures can be used to record virtual care quality amid and following the pandemic. Further research into healthcare professionals' perspectives would offer a supportive lens toward a strong person-centered healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bishnu Bajgain
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Sarah Rabi
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Sadia Ahmed
- Alberta SPOR SUPPORT Unit, Patient Engagement Team, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - Veronika Kiryanova
- Patient and Community Engagement Research, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Paul Fairie
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta SPOR SUPPORT Unit, Patient Engagement Team, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Maria J Santana
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta SPOR SUPPORT Unit, Patient Engagement Team, Calgary, AB, Canada
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14
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Chimonas S, Lipitz-Snyderman A, Spiegelhoff Z, Chakraborty N, Seier K, White C, Kuperman G. Persistence of Telemedicine Usage for Breast and Prostate Cancer after the Peak of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4961. [PMID: 37894328 PMCID: PMC10605853 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15204961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
While COVID-19 catalyzed a shift to telemedicine, little is known about the persistence of remote cancer care in non-emergent times. We assessed telemedicine use at a high-volume academic cancer center in New York City and analyzed breast and prostate cancer visits pre-COVID-19, peak COVID-19, and post-peak. Descriptive statistics assessed visit mode (in person, telemedicine) and type (new, follow-up, other) by department/specialty, with Fisher's exact tests comparing peak/post-peak differences. The study included 602,233 visits, with telemedicine comprising 2% of visits pre-COVID-19, 50% peak COVID-19, and 30% post-peak. Notable variations emerged by department/specialty and visit type. Post-peak, most departments/specialties continued using telemedicine near or above peak levels, except medicine, neurology, and survivorship, where remote care fell. In psychiatry, social work, and nutrition, nearly all visits were conducted remotely during and after peak COVID-19, while surgery and nursing maintained low telemedicine usage. Post-peak, anesthesiology and neurology used telemedicine seldom for new visits but often for follow-ups, while nursing showed the opposite pattern. These trends suggest department- and visit-specific contexts where providers and patients choose telemedicine in non-emergent conditions. More research is needed to explore these findings and evaluate telemedicine's appropriateness and impact across the care continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Chimonas
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA (N.C.); (K.S.); (C.W.)
| | - Allison Lipitz-Snyderman
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA (N.C.); (K.S.); (C.W.)
| | - Zoe Spiegelhoff
- Department of Health Informatics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Nirjhar Chakraborty
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA (N.C.); (K.S.); (C.W.)
| | - Kenneth Seier
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA (N.C.); (K.S.); (C.W.)
| | - Charlie White
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA (N.C.); (K.S.); (C.W.)
| | - Gilad Kuperman
- Department of Informatics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA;
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15
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West HJ, Bange E, Chino F. Telemedicine as patient-centred oncology care: will we embrace or resist disruption? Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2023; 20:659-660. [PMID: 37365437 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-023-00796-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Howard Jack West
- Department of Medical Oncology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
- AccessHope, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Erin Bange
- Department of Medical Oncology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fumiko Chino
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Affordability Working Group, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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16
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Garavand A, Khodaveisi T, Aslani N, Hosseiniravandi M, Shams R, Behmanesh A. Telemedicine in cancer care during COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic mapping study. HEALTH AND TECHNOLOGY 2023; 13:1-14. [PMID: 37363344 PMCID: PMC10256577 DOI: 10.1007/s12553-023-00762-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Background For monitoring, providing, and managing COVID-19 pandemic healthcare services, telemedicine holds incredible potential. During this period, there has been a change in the remote services offered to cancer patients. As a result, the purpose of this study was to conduct a mapping review to identify and classify telemedicine applications for providing cancer care to patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Articles published in scientific databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and ProQuest up to 2022 were searched for in this systematic mapping study. Identifying keywords, creating a search strategy, and selecting data sources were all part of our search for relevant articles. The articles were chosen in phases based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results A total of 1331 articles were found, with the majority of them (46% of them) taking place in the United States. Telemedicine systems were most commonly developed for breast cancer (11.4%), lung cancer (7.9%), head and neck cancer (6.4%), brain cancer (5.4%), gynecologic cancer (6.0%), urological cancer (5.7%), prostate cancer (5.0%), colorectal cancer (5.0%), biliary tract cancer (5.0%), and skin cancer (5.0%). Teleconsultation was the most common type of telemedicine application, with 60% of it taking place in real time. Conclusion Because of its emphasis on providing high-quality health care while reducing costs, telemedicine has gained popularity in the majority of countries, with positive economic and social consequences. While telemedicine systems provide a variety of healthcare services, during the COVID-19 era, they do not currently provide many services to all cancer patients worldwide. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12553-023-00762-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Garavand
- Department of Health Information Technology, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Taleb Khodaveisi
- Department of Health Information Technology, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Hamedan University of Medical Sciences, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Nasim Aslani
- Department of Health Information Technology, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hosseiniravandi
- Department of Health Information Technology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Torbat Heydarieh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Roshanak Shams
- Bone and Joint Reconstruction Research Center, Department of Orthopedics, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Behmanesh
- Bone and Joint Reconstruction Research Center, Department of Orthopedics, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Education and Development Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Hemmat Highway, Tehran, 1449614535 Iran
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17
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Patel KB, Tabriz AA, Turner K, Gonzalez BD, Oswald LB, Jim HS, Nguyen OT, Hong YR, Aldawoodi N, Cao B, Wang X, Rollison DE, Robinson EJ, Naso C, Spiess PE. Telemedicine Adoption in an NCI-Designated Cancer Center During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Report on Patient Experience of Care. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2023; 21:496-502.e6. [PMID: 37156477 PMCID: PMC10777340 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2023.7008] [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: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with cancer require timely access to care so that healthcare providers can prepare an optimal treatment plan with significant implications for quality of life and mortality. The COVID-19 pandemic spurred rapid adoption of telemedicine in oncology, but study of patient experience of care with telemedicine in this population has been limited. We assessed overall patient experience of care with telemedicine at an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center during the COVID-19 pandemic and examined changes in patient experience over time. PATIENTS AND METHODS This was a retrospective study of outpatient oncology patients who received treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center. Press Ganey surveys were used to assess patient experience. Data from patients with appointments between April 1, 2020, and June 30, 2021, were analyzed. Patient experience was compared between telemedicine and in-person visits, and patient experience with telemedicine over time was described. RESULTS A total of 33,318 patients reported Press Ganey data for in-person visits, and 5,950 reported Press Ganey data for telemedicine visits. Relative to patients with in-person visits, more patients with telemedicine visits gave higher satisfaction ratings for access (62.5% vs 75.8%, respectively) and care provider concern (84.2% vs 90.7%, respectively) (P<.001). When adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, sex, insurance, and clinic type, telemedicine visits consistently outperformed in-person visits over time regarding access and care provider concern (P<.001). There were no significant changes over time in satisfaction with telemedicine visits regarding access, care provider concern, telemedicine technology, or overall assessment (P>.05). CONCLUSIONS In this study, a large oncology dataset showed that telemedicine resulted in better patient experience of care in terms of access and care provider concern compared with in-person visits. Patient experience of care with telemedicine visits did not change over time, suggesting that implementing telemedicine was effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krupal B. Patel
- Department of Head and Neck and Endocrine Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Amir Alishahi Tabriz
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Kea Turner
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Brian D. Gonzalez
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Laura B. Oswald
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Heather S.L. Jim
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Oliver T. Nguyen
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Young-Rock Hong
- Department of Health Services Research, Management and Policy, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | - Biwei Cao
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Xuefeng Wang
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Dana E. Rollison
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Edmondo J. Robinson
- Department of Internal and Hospital Medicine, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
- Center for Digital Health, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Cristina Naso
- Virtual Health Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Philippe E. Spiess
- Virtual Health Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
- Department of Genitourinary Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
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18
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Maroongroge S, De B, Woodhouse KD, Bassett Jr RL, Lee P, Bloom ES, Smith GL, Frank SJ, Li J, Perkins G, Das P, Koong AC, Smith BD, Wang C. Physician Perspectives on Telemedicine in Radiation Oncology. Adv Radiat Oncol 2023; 8:101005. [PMID: 36311822 PMCID: PMC9598490 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2022.101005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Telemedicine enthusiasm and uptake in radiation oncology rapidly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is unclear if and how telemedicine should be used after the COVID-19 public health emergency ends is unclear. Herein, we report on our institution's provider experience after the mature adoption of telemedicine. Methods and Materials We distributed a survey to all radiation oncology attending physicians at our institution in October 2021 to assess satisfaction, facilitators, and barriers to telemedicine implementation. We performed quantitative and qualitative analyses to characterize satisfaction and identify influencing factors whether telemedicine is employed. We calculated the average proportion of visits that providers expected to be appropriately performed with telemedicine for each disease site and visit type. Results A total of 60 of the 82 eligible radiation oncologists (73%) responded to the survey, of whom 78% were satisfied with telemedicine in the radiation oncology department and 83% wished to continue offering video visits after the COVID-19 public health emergency ends. Common patient factors influencing whether physicians offer telemedicine include the patient's travel burden, patient preferences, and whether a physical examination is required. Approximately 20% of new consultations and 50% of weekly management visits were estimated to be appropriate for telemedicine. The central nervous system/pediatrics and thoracic faculty considered telemedicine appropriate for the greatest proportion of new consultations, and 93% of respondents felt comfortable determining whether telemedicine was appropriate. Conclusions Surveyed radiation oncologists were satisfied with telemedicine in their practice, and wished to continue offering video visits in the future. Our data suggest that payers should continue to support this patient-centered technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Maroongroge
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Brian De
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Kristina D. Woodhouse
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Roland L. Bassett Jr
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Percy Lee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Elizabeth S. Bloom
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Grace L. Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Steven J. Frank
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - George Perkins
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Prajnan Das
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Albert C. Koong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Benjamin D. Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Chenyang Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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19
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Linjawi M, Shakoor H, Hilary S, Ali HI, Al-Dhaheri AS, Ismail LC, Apostolopoulos V, Stojanovska L. Cancer Patients during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mini-Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11020248. [PMID: 36673615 PMCID: PMC9859465 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11020248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Since its emergence, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected the entire world and all commerce and industries, including healthcare systems. COVID-19 adversely affects cancer patients because they are immunocompromised. Increased COVID-19 infection and shortage of medical supplies, beds and healthcare workers in hospitals affect cancer care. This paper includes a description of the existing research that shows the impact of COVID-19 on the management of cancer patients. Aged people with various chronic conditions such as cancer and comorbidities face more challenges as they have a greater risk of disease severity. COVID-19 has affected care delivery, including patient management, and has been responsible for increased mortality among cancer patients. Cancer patients with severe symptoms require regular therapies and treatment; therefore, they have a higher risk of exposure. Due to the risk of transmission, various steps were taken to combat this disease; however, they have affected the existing operational efficiency. Herein, we present the changing priorities during COVID-19, which also affected cancer care, including delayed diagnosis, treatment, and surgeries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Linjawi
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hira Shakoor
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Serene Hilary
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: (S.H.); (L.S.)
| | - Habiba I. Ali
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ayesha S. Al-Dhaheri
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Leila Cheikh Ismail
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Vasso Apostolopoulos
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Lily Stojanovska
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
- Correspondence: (S.H.); (L.S.)
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20
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Costanzo S, De Summa S, Maurmo L, Digennaro M, Patruno M, Paradiso A. Remote vs in-person BRCA1/2 non-carriers test disclosure: patients' choice during Covid-19 pandemic restriction. Fam Cancer 2023; 22:43-48. [PMID: 35867288 PMCID: PMC9304797 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-022-00307-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
During Covid-19 pandemic most hospitals have restricted in-person delivery of non-essential healthcare services, including genetic testing delivery, to slow the spread of the virus. Our Onco-Genetic Service also faced this challenging period and had to re-organize its clinical practice with the use of tele-health. Aim of the present paper is to understand whether and how Covid-19-related changes in medical practice influenced patients' satisfaction about the health service provided. 125 BRCA1/2 non carriers (109/125, 87.2% female and 16/125, 12.8% male) in Istituto Tumori "Giovanni Paolo II" of Bari were enrolled. All participants were asked to choose whether they prefer in-person or remote post-test counselling session. Basing on patients' choice, two groups of subjects were composed. One week after the post-test counselling session, participants were phone called and asked to complete: a socio-demographic form, a brief structured interview about their Covid-19 related worries and their satisfaction with the health service provided, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Fear of Covid-19 scale. Qualitative information about patients' choice were also collected. No significant difference about patients' satisfaction with the health service provided emerged between groups. Patients who preferred remote post-test counselling had higher anxiety, worries and fear-of Covid-19 than the others. All remote-counselling subjects preferred tele-genetics because of Covid-19 security, would choose it again and would recommend it to others. Cancer tele-genetics offers good guarantees of comfort and efficacy, but patients' choices are related to personal and psychological variables. The use of tele-genetics has to be a patient's choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Costanzo
- Experimental Oncology and Biobanking Unit, Heredo-Familiar Cancer Clinic, IRCCS - Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, Bari, Italy
| | - Simona De Summa
- Molecular Diagnostics and Pharmacogenetics Unit, IRCCS - Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, Bari, Italy
| | - Leonarda Maurmo
- Molecular Diagnostics and Pharmacogenetics Unit, IRCCS - Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Digennaro
- Experimental Oncology and Biobanking Unit, Heredo-Familiar Cancer Clinic, IRCCS - Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, Bari, Italy
| | - Margherita Patruno
- Experimental Oncology and Biobanking Unit, Heredo-Familiar Cancer Clinic, IRCCS - Istituto Tumori "Giovanni Paolo II", Bari, Italy.
| | - Angelo Paradiso
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS - Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, Bari, Italy
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21
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Su CT, Shankaran V. Defining the Role of the Modern Oncology Provider in Mitigating Financial Toxicity. J Am Coll Radiol 2023; 20:51-56. [PMID: 36513257 PMCID: PMC9898149 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2022.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Financial toxicity, the cumulative financial hardships resulting from cancer diagnosis and treatment, is a growing problem in the United States. With the proliferation of costly novel therapeutics and improved cancer survival, financial toxicity will remain a major issue in cancer care delivery. Frontline oncology providers serve as gatekeepers in the medical system and, as such, could play essential roles in recognizing and addressing financial toxicity. Providers and health systems could help mitigate financial toxicity through routine financial toxicity screening, financial navigation, and advocacy. Specific strategies include developing and implementing financial screening instruments that can be integrated in electronic medical records and establishing team-based financial navigation programs to help patients with out-of-pocket medical costs, nonmedical spending, and insurance optimization. Finally, providers should continue to advocate for policies and legislation that decrease cost and promote value-based care. In this review, we examine opportunities for provider engagement in these areas and highlight gaps for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher T Su
- Division of Hematology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington; and Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcome Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington.
| | - Veena Shankaran
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington; and Codirector, Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcome Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
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22
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A Telemedicine Standardized Patient Experience: Enhancing the Virtual Classroom and Preparing for Alternative Modalities of Care. Nurs Educ Perspect 2022; 44:181-182. [PMID: 36729794 DOI: 10.1097/01.nep.0000000000001076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This pilot study explored the use of standardized patients in the virtual classroom in efforts to increase family nurse practitioner preparedness to engage in telemedicine care delivery. Using a mixed-methods approach, we determined this innovation significantly increased students' confidence in their ability to perform a telemedicine visit while also improving their satisfaction with the virtual classroom.
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23
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Factors Impacting Patient Perspectives on Telehealth and Remote Healthcare during COVID-19: A Mixed Methods Study. TELEMATICS AND INFORMATICS REPORTS 2022. [PMCID: PMC9712143 DOI: 10.1016/j.teler.2022.100033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
A rapid transformation to telehealth was a necessary precaution during the pandemic. This research sought a better understanding of factors impacting patients’ decisions on choosing telehealth. A mixed methods study was conducted with a sample of 276 patients. An online survey was used to collect qualitative and quantitative data. This study found that technical issues were the most significant factor preventing patients from using telehealth, among other factors such as waiting time and privacy concern. The results inform policy-makers and healthcare providers on how to optimize telehealth. The limitations of this study and future research directions are also discussed.
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24
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Banbury A, Smith AC, Taylor ML, Der Vartanian C, Ng K, Vitangcol K, Haydon HM, Thomas EE, Caffery LJ. Cancer care and management during COVID-19: A comparison of in-person, video and telephone consultations. J Telemed Telecare 2022; 28:733-739. [PMID: 36346931 PMCID: PMC9646900 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x221123409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
In Australia, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the exponential growth in the delivery of telehealth services. Medicare data indicates that the majority of telehealth consultations have used the telephone, despite the known benefits of using video. The aim of this study was to understand the perceived quality and effectiveness of in-person, telephone and videoconsultations for cancer care. Data was collected via online surveys with consumers (n = 1162) and health professionals (n = 59), followed by semi-structured interviews with telehealth experienced health professionals (n = 22) and consumers (n = 18). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and significance was tested using the chi-square test. A framework analysis and thematic analysis were used for qualitative data. Results indicate telehealth is suitable for use across the cancer care pathway. However, consumers and health professionals perceived videoconsultations facilitated visual communication and improved patients' quality of care. The telephone was appropriate for short transactional consultations such as repeat prescriptions. Consumers were rarely given the choice of consultation modality. The choice of modality depended on a range of factors such as the type of consultation and stage of cancer care. Hybrid models of care utilising in-person, video and telephone should be developed and requires further guidance to promote the adoption of telehealth in cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Banbury
- Centre for Online Health, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Anthony C Smith
- Centre for Online Health, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Innovative Medical
Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Monica L Taylor
- Centre for Online Health, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Kawai Ng
- Cancer Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kathryn Vitangcol
- Centre for Online Health, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Helen M Haydon
- Centre for Online Health, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Emma E Thomas
- Centre for Online Health, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Liam J Caffery
- Centre for Online Health, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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25
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Teleoncology: A Solution for Everyone? A Single-Center Experience with Telemedicine during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:8565-8578. [PMID: 36421328 PMCID: PMC9689494 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29110675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of telehealth was rapidly implemented without previous evidence. The ONCOTELEMD study aimed to evaluate the opinion of patients attended via telemedicine during this period and to study factors that condition patient preferences on its use. Included patients had a confirmed cancer diagnosis and were contacted by telephone between 13 March and 30 April 2020, in the Medical Oncology Service of Hospital Parc Taulí, Sabadell. A 12-question survey was presented to them between 4 February and 19 April 2021. Statistical analysis was carried out using chi-square and multivariable logistic regression tests. Six hundred forty-six patients were included; 487 responded to the survey. The median age was 68 years (27-90), 55.2% were female. Most patients had a surveillance visit (65.3%) and were diagnosed with colorectal or breast cancer (43% and 26.5%, respectively); 91.8% of patients were satisfied, and 60% would accept the use of telemedicine beyond the pandemic. Patients aged more than 50 years (OR 0.40; 95% CI, 0.19-0.81; p = 0.01) and diagnosed with breast cancer (OR 0.45; 95% CI, 0.26-0.69; p < 0.001) were less predisposed to adopt telehealth in the future. Patients agreed to be informed via telehealth of scan or lab results (62% and 84%, respectively) but not of new oral or endovenous treatments (52% and 33.5%, respectively). Additionally, 75% of patients had a medium or low-null technologic ability, and 51.3% would only use the telephone or video call to contact health professionals. However, differences were found according to age groups (p < 0.0001). In total, patients surveyed were satisfied with telemedicine and believed telehealth could have a role following the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, our results remark on the importance of individualizing the use of telehealth, showing relevant data on patient preferences and digital literacy.
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26
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Safavi AH, Lovas M, Liu ZA, Melwani S, Truong T, Devonish S, Abdelmutti N, Sayani A, Rodin D, Berlin A. Virtual Care and Electronic Patient Communication During COVID-19: Cross-sectional Study of Inequities Across a Canadian Tertiary Cancer Center. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e39728. [DOI: 10.2196/39728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Virtual care (VC) visits (telephone or video) and email-based patient communication have been rapidly adopted to facilitate cancer care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Inequities in access and patient experience may arise as these digital health tools become prevalent.
Objective
We aimed to characterize inequities in access and patient-reported experience following adoption of digital health tools at a tertiary cancer center during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
We designed a cross-sectional study of outpatients with visits from September to December 2020. Patient characteristics and responses to an email-based patient-experience survey were collated. Inequities in access were assessed across three pairs of comparison groups: (1) patients with VC and in-person visits, (2) patients with and without documented email addresses, and (3) responders and nonresponders to the survey. Inequities in patient-reported experience were assessed among survey responders. Demographics were mapped to area-level averages from national census data. Socioeconomic status was mapped to area-level dimensions of the Canadian Index of Multiple Deprivation. Covariate balance between comparison groups was assessed using standardized mean differences (SMDs), with SMD≥0.2 indicating differences between groups. Associations between patient experience satisfaction scores and covariates were assessed using multivariable analyses, with P<.05 indicating statistical significance.
Results
Among the 42,194 patients who had outpatient visits, 62.65% (n=26,435) had at least one VC visit and 31.15% (n=13,144) were emailable. Access to VC and email was similar across demographic and socioeconomic indices (SMD<0.2). Among emailable patients, 21.84% (2870/13,144) responded to the survey. Survey responsiveness was similar across indices, aside from a small difference by age (SMD=0.24). Among responders, 24.4% received VC and were similar to in-person responders across indices (SMD<0.2). VC and in-person responders had similar satisfaction levels with all care domains surveyed (all P>.05). Regardless of visit type, patients had variable satisfaction with care domains across demographic and socioeconomic indices. Patients with higher ethnocultural composition scores were less satisfied with the cultural appropriateness of their care (odds ratio [OR] 0.70, 95% CI 0.57-0.86). Patients with higher situational vulnerability scores were less satisfied with discussion of physical symptoms (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.48-0.93). Patients with higher residential instability scores were less satisfied with discussion of both physical (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.68-0.97) and emotional (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.77-0.96) symptoms, and also with the duration of their visit (OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.74-0.98; P=.02). Male patients were more satisfied with how their health care provider had listened to them (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.11-2.44; P=.01).
Conclusions
Adoption of VC and email can equitably maintain access and patient-reported experience in cancer care across demographics and socioeconomic indices. Existing health inequities among structurally marginalized patients must continue to be addressed to improve their care experience.
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27
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Elhakeem I, Iqbal P, Nashwan AJ, Abubakar M, Jawad AT, AlHiyari MA, Chandra P, Osman MA, Mohamad SS, Alkhatib M, Yassin MA. Patients' experience and satisfaction using telemedicine for outpatient services in a Tertiary Cancer Center in Qatar during COVID-19: A cross-sectional study. Health Sci Rep 2022; 5:e883. [PMID: 36320657 PMCID: PMC9617592 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim The coronavirus-19 is an ongoing global pandemic resulting in millions of deaths worldwide. For a patient population at higher risk of infection, telemedicine is a promising means of providing safe and alternative care routes while minimizing their risk of exposure. This study gives insight into patients' experiences and satisfaction with telemedicine during this pandemic. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study on 297 patients (RR: 85%) at the National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR), Qatar. Data was collected through electronic medical records of the eligibe patient population, and phone calls were made whereby the physician read a standard introductory script followed by a survey questionnaire. We focused on patients' experience with telemedicine services amid the pandemic. This was done using a six-point Likert scoring system of seven questions that were scaled from 1 to 6. Results More than 80% of patients somewhat to strongly agreed that telemedicine met their healthcare needs, improved their confidence in their healthcare system, and were generally satisfied with the quality of care provided. Nearly all patients (90%) understood their physicians' recommendations over the phone. In addition, more than half of the patients (89%) felt they could freely communicate their concerns. Patients also showed an inclination towards face-to-face consultations at 68%; however, 90% were willing to participate in future teleconsultations. Conclusion Our study indicates an overall positive experience among patients towards the use of telemedicine. Telemedicine is a safe, futuristic approach toward patient care management and, thus, provides healthcare professionals a platform to implement further patient and physician education. Even though our data also showed that patients liked in-person visits to some degree, this needs to be looked into more in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israa Elhakeem
- Medical EducationHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar,Hematology/Oncology DepartmentHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
| | - Phool Iqbal
- Internal Medicine DepartmentNew York Medical College/Metropolitan Hospital CenterNew YorkUSA
| | | | | | | | | | - Prem Chandra
- Academic Health SystemHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
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28
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Abidi A, Demiraj F, Berdichevskiy G, Gupta K, Epstein D, Kurian S, Aranyos A, Gerstenfeld A, Assadi N, Penales CH. The Effects of COVID-19 on Physicians’ Perceived Ability to Provide Care for Patients With Type II Diabetes Mellitus. Cureus 2022; 14:e29135. [PMID: 36258937 PMCID: PMC9560814 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.29135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objective The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), presents multiple, diverse challenges to providing appropriate medical care, especially in terms of medication and treatment adherence for chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these barriers by potentially forcing physicians to modify their treatment plans due to limitations on in-person visits and changes to patients' financial and social support systems. It remains uncertain whether physicians believe they can provide the same standard of care using telehealth technology or other means to their patients during the pandemic. The goal of this study was to explore physician perceptions about their ability to provide care to patients with T2DM during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology This cross-sectional study collected data between January 25, 2021, and February 2, 2021, using an anonymous, self-administered online survey involving DO and MD physicians including residents treating patients with T2DM. The survey was administered via REDCap and collected data on participant demographics, attitudes, perceptions, knowledge, and prior and current (COVID-19-era) experience with care for T2DM patients. Physicians registered with the Florida Department of Health with publicly available emails were invited to participate. Results The survey showed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, 57.9% of physicians (n=48) believed that their patients have a weaker social support system; 68.7% (n=57) modified their patient care plans due to patients' financial difficulties; 78.4% (n=65) believed a regular physical exam is necessary to properly treat patients; 48.2% (n=40) did not believe they had a more complete picture of the case with remote consultations; 47.0% (n=39) were not as satisfied with remote consultations as with face-to-face patient visits; 68.7% (n=57) believed telehealth is necessary to adequately treat patients; 38.5% (n=32) have been less likely to refer their patients to other providers or specialists; 45.8% (n=38) reported concerns over admitting their patients to the hospital for acute medical care; 61.5% (n=51) reported having more patients delay scheduling their routine follow-up care; 61.5% (n=51) believed their patients have been less compliant with the healthcare plans recommended to them. Conclusions The study showed that COVID-19 has significantly impacted physicians’ perceptions and abilities to provide care for patients with T2DM. COVID-19 has negatively impacted several crucial aspects of diabetes management, including consistent in-person examinations, social support, and referral to other required services, which could result in long-term consequences for these patients. Furthermore, our study suggests that physicians may not be as satisfied with the care they are able to provide via remote consultations as they are with in-person visits, which has significant implications as we move toward a more telehealth-driven healthcare delivery system.
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29
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Laskar SG, Sinha S, Krishnatry R, Grau C, Mehta M, Agarwal JP. Access to Radiation Therapy: From Local to Global and Equality to Equity. JCO Glob Oncol 2022; 8:e2100358. [PMID: 35960905 PMCID: PMC9470145 DOI: 10.1200/go.21.00358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The discipline of radiation oncology is the most resource-intensive component of comprehensive cancer care because of significant initial investments required for machines, the requirement of dedicated construction, a multifaceted workforce, and recurring maintenance costs. This review focuses on the challenges associated with accessible and affordable radiation therapy (RT) across the globe and the possible solutions to improve the current scenario. Most common cancers globally, including breast, prostate, head and neck, and cervical cancers, have a RT utilization rate of > 50%. The estimated annual incidence of cancer is 19,292,789 for 2020, with > 70% occurring in low-income countries and low-middle–income countries. There are approximately 14,000 teletherapy machines globally. However, the distribution of these machines is distinctly nonuniform, with low-income countries and low-middle–income countries having access to < 10% of the global teletherapy machines. The Directory of Radiotherapy Centres enlists 3,318 brachytherapy facilities. Most countries with a high incidence of cervical cancer have a deficit in brachytherapy facilities, although formal estimates for the same are not available. The deficit in simulators, radiation oncologists, and medical physicists is even more challenging to quantify; however, the inequitable distribution is indisputable. Measures to ensure equitable access to RT include identifying problems specific to region/country, adopting indigenous technology, encouraging public-private partnership, relaxing custom duties on RT equipment, global/cross-country collaboration, and quality human resources training. Innovative research focusing on the most prevalent cancers aiming to make RT utilization more cost-effective while maintaining efficacy will further bridge the gap. Improving global access to Radiotherapy: The current scenario and the road ahead
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarbani Ghosh Laskar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Shwetabh Sinha
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Rahul Krishnatry
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Cai Grau
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Danish Center for Particle Therapy, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Minesh Mehta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Miami Cancer Institute, Miami, FL
| | - Jai Prakash Agarwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
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30
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Caraceni A, Pellegrini C, Shkodra M, Zecca E, Bracchi P, Lo Dico S, Caputo M, Zappata S, Zito E, Brunelli C. Telemedicine for outpatient palliative care during COVID-19 pandemics: a longitudinal study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2022:bmjspcare-2022-003585. [PMID: 35710705 PMCID: PMC9240442 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2022-003585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Objectives During the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine (TM) emerged as an important mean to reduce risks of transmission, yet delivering the necessary care to patients. Our aim was to evaluate feasibility, characteristics and satisfaction for a TM service based on phone/video consultations for patients with cancer attending an outpatient palliative care clinic during COVID-19 pandemics. Methods A longitudinal observational study was conducted from April to December 2020. Consecutive patients were screened for video consultations feasibility. Either patients or their caregivers received video/phone consultations registering reason and intervention performed. Those contacted at least twice were eligible for experience of care assessment. Results Video consultations were feasible in 282 of 572 screened patients (49%, 95% CI 45% to 52%); 112 patients among the 572 had at least two phone/video consultations and 12 of them had one or more video consultations. Consultations were carried out with patients (56%), caregivers (30%) or both (14%). 63% of the consultations were requested by the patients/caregivers. Reasons for consultation included uncontrolled (66%) or new symptom onset (20%), therapy clarifications (37%) and updates on diagnostic tests (28%). Most interventions were therapy modifications (70%) and appointments’ rescheduling (51%). 49 patients and 19 caregivers were interviewed, reporting good care experience (average of 1–5 satisfaction score of 3.9 and 4.2, respectively). The majority (83% and 84%) declared they would use TM after the pandemics. Conclusions Although feasibility is still limited for some patients, TM can be a satisfactory alternative to in-person visits for palliative care patients in need of limiting access to the hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Caraceni
- Palliative Care, Pain Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Pellegrini
- Palliative Care, Pain Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Morena Shkodra
- Palliative Care, Pain Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy .,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ernesto Zecca
- Palliative Care, Pain Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Bracchi
- Palliative Care, Pain Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Lo Dico
- Palliative Care, Pain Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Mariangela Caputo
- Palliative Care, Pain Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Simonetta Zappata
- Palliative Care, Pain Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Emanuela Zito
- Information and communication technology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Cinzia Brunelli
- Palliative Care, Pain Therapy and Rehabilitation Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
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31
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Rhodes SS, Shah NK, Gray K, Lahav J, Ryan T, Rivera M, Freedman GM, Taunk NK. Nursing Telemedicine Educational Encounters: Improved Patient Satisfaction in Radiation Therapy Clinics. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2022; 26:275-282. [PMID: 35604740 DOI: 10.1188/22.cjon.275-282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nurse-led education can improve patient satisfaction, and telemedicine has increased patient access during the COVID-19 pandemic. OBJECTIVES The aim of this article was to investigate how nursing telemedicine educational visits influence patient satisfaction. METHODS Patients receiving standard of care in-person education for breast cancer radiation therapy (RT) between January 2019 and June 2019 comprised the preintervention cohort. After July 2019, patients received the same information virtually and represented the postintervention cohort. Press Ganey surveys were used to evaluate patient satisfaction, t tests were performed to differentiate satisfaction scores, and f tests were calculated to determine differences in the variances of response. FINDINGS Patient satisfaction increased in the postintervention cohort for what to expect during RT, how to manage side effects, and nurses' attentiveness to patient questions and worries. There was decreased variance in patient satisfaction in the postintervention group for quality of care received from nurses and caring manner of nurses.
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32
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Wilson C, Romaniuk H, Orellana L, White V, Foroudi F, Livingston PM. Failure to attend radiation oncology appointments during COVID-19: Analysis of data from an Australian public hospital. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2022; 66:874-880. [PMID: 35590470 PMCID: PMC9347579 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13425] [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: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Introduction COVID‐19 has impacted lives worldwide. Public health guidance has advocated for minimisation of infection risk by encouraging social isolation and physical distancing. In response, many health services have changed delivery practices to increased use of telehealth. We undertook an audit of hospital attendance data collected from a radiation oncology service in a large public hospital in Victoria, Australia between January and September in 2019, and the same period in 2020. The aim was to discern the impact of COVID‐19 on attendance at appointments and whether attendance rates differed by appointment type. Methods Attendance data and appointment type for the two targeted periods (a total of 62,528 appointments for 3383 patients) were extracted from the database maintained by the radiation oncology service. Logistic generalised estimating equation (GEE) models were run with the final model including the COVID‐19 period (pre, during) and all patient and appointment characteristics. Results Results indicated a small decrease in attendance in 2020 (OR = 1.13, 95% CI 1.01–1.25, P = 0.026) with this predominantly reported for the non‐treatment appointments, which consisted of follow‐up appointments, nurse appointments, and treatment review appointments. Conclusion Attendance for radiation oncology treatment was largely unaffected by COVID‐19 although other services experienced slight reductions. Changes to work practices, specifically the increased use of telehealth, may have moderated the impact. Given the focus on one service in one location, it is not possible to generalise these results and future research should closely monitor both patient and staff satisfaction with services delivered via modified processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlene Wilson
- ONJ Cancer Wellness and Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helena Romaniuk
- Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lilliana Orellana
- Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Victoria White
- Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Farshad Foroudi
- Radiation Oncology, Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
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33
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Ascierto PA, Warner AB, Blank C, Caracò C, Demaria S, Gershenwald JE, Khushalani NI, Long GV, Luke JJ, Mehnert JM, Robert C, Rutkowski P, Tawbi HA, Osman I, Puzanov I. The "Great Debate" at Melanoma Bridge 2021, December 2nd-4th, 2021. J Transl Med 2022; 20:200. [PMID: 35538491 PMCID: PMC9087170 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03406-7] [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: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The Great Debate session at the 2021 Melanoma Bridge virtual congress (December 2-4) featured counterpoint views from experts on seven important issues in melanoma. The debates considered the use of adoptive cell therapy versus use of bispecific antibodies, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors versus immunotherapy in the adjuvant setting, whether the use of corticosteroids for the management of side effects have an impact on outcomes, the choice of programmed death (PD)-1 combination therapy with cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen (CTLA)-4 or lymphocyte-activation gene (LAG)-3, whether radiation is needed for brain metastases, when lymphadenectomy should be integrated into the treatment plan and then the last debate, telemedicine versus face-to-face. As with previous Bridge congresses, the debates were assigned by meeting Chairs and positions taken by experts during the debates may not have necessarily reflected their respective personal view. Audiences voted both before and after each debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo A Ascierto
- Department of Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy and Innovative Therapy, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy.
| | | | | | - Corrado Caracò
- Division of Surgery of Melanoma and Skin Cancer, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione Pascale" IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Sandra Demaria
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jeffrey E Gershenwald
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Division of Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Georgina V Long
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine & Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jason J Luke
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, UPMC) Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Janice M Mehnert
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Caroline Robert
- Institut de Cancérologie Gustave Roussy Et Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Piotr Rutkowski
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Hussein A Tawbi
- Melanoma Medical Oncology, Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Medicine, MD Anderson Brain Metastasis Clinic, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Iman Osman
- New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Igor Puzanov
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Neeman E, Lyon L, Sun H, Conell C, Reed M, Kumar D, Kolevska T, Kotak D, Sundaresan T, Liu R. Future of Teleoncology: Trends and Disparities in Telehealth and Secure Message Utilization in the COVID-19 Era. JCO Clin Cancer Inform 2022; 6:e2100160. [PMID: 35467963 PMCID: PMC9067360 DOI: 10.1200/cci.21.00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic created an imperative to re-examine the role of telehealth in oncology. We studied trends and disparities in utilization of telehealth (video and telephone visits) and secure messaging (SM; ie, e-mail via portal/app), before and during the pandemic. METHODS Retrospective cohort study of hematology/oncology patient visits (telephone/video/office) and SM between January 1, 2019, and September 30, 2020, at Kaiser Permanente Northern California. RESULTS Among 334,666 visits and 1,161,239 SM, monthly average office visits decreased from 10,562 prepandemic to 1,769 during pandemic, telephone visits increased from 5,114 to 8,663, and video visits increased from 40 to 4,666. Monthly average SM increased from 50,788 to 64,315 since the pandemic began. Video visits were a significantly higher fraction of all visits (P < .01) in (1) younger patients (Generation Z 48%, Millennials 46%; Generation X 40%; Baby Boomers 34.4%; Silent Generation 24.5%); (2) patients with commercial insurance (39%) compared with Medicaid (32.7%) or Medicare (28.1%); (3) English speakers (33.7%) compared with those requiring an interpreter (24.5%); (4) patients who are Asian (35%) and non-Hispanic White (33.7%) compared with Black (30.1%) and Hispanic White (27.5%); (5) married/domestic partner patients (35%) compared with single/divorced/widowed (29.9%); (6) Charlson comorbidity index ≤ 3 (36.2%) compared with > 3 (31.3%); and (7) males (34.6%) compared with females (32.3%). Similar statistically significant SM utilization patterns were also seen. CONCLUSION In the pandemic era, hematology/oncology telehealth and SM use rapidly increased in a manner that is feasible and sustained. Possible disparities existed in video visit and SM use by age, insurance plan, language, race, ethnicity, marital status, comorbidities, and sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elad Neeman
- San Francisco Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Liisa Lyon
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Hongxin Sun
- The Permanente Medical Group Consulting Services, Oakland, CA
| | - Carol Conell
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Mary Reed
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Deepika Kumar
- San Francisco Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Tatjana Kolevska
- Napa/Solano Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Napa, CA
| | - Dinesh Kotak
- San Rafael Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, San Rafael CA
| | - Tilak Sundaresan
- San Francisco Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Raymond Liu
- San Francisco Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, San Francisco, CA.,Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
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de Assis RT, de Morais LR, Simões de Freitas ACF, Signorini FIlho RC, Ribeiro Borges de Carvalho L, Parreira BE, Yurie Yamachi C, Braga A, Sun SY. Telemedicine in post-molar follow-up: is it a useful tool? Int J Gynecol Cancer 2022; 32:633-638. [DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2021-003260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundTelemonitoring is an alternative to in-person appointments and overcomes geographic distance barriers.ObjectiveThe primary objective of this study was to evaluate adherence to post-molar follow-up using both WhatsApp and in-person appointments compared with standard care. The secondary objective was to evaluate the rate of completion of post-molar follow-up of complete moles, considering 6 and 3 months of duration.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Gestational Trophoblastic Disease Center, São Paulo Hospital. Patients with complete or partial mole treatment between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2018 were included in two groups: group 1 (patients from 2009 to 2013) and group 2 (from 2014 to 2018), before and after telemonitoring implementation, respectively. Complete follow-up was considered if after the first normal human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) level (<5 mIU/mL), the patient was followed up for an additional 30 days (partial mole) or 180 days (complete mole). Loss to post-molar follow-up with positive hCG was also evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson’s Χ2 test, 5% significance level (p=0.05), and R version 4.0.2.ResultsA total of 308 patients were included in the study, 92 of them were assessed in group 1 and 216 patients in group 2. There was no difference between the rates of complete follow-up after telemonitoring implementation (complete mole: 42/72=58.3% group 1 vs 85/163=52.1% group 2; p=0.38; partial mole: 16/20=80% group 1 vs 37/53=69.8 group 2; p=0.3), and no increase of loss to post-molar follow-up with positive hCG (8/92=8.7% group 1 vs 14/216=6.5% group 2; p=0.49). The shortening of follow-up of complete moles to 90 days increased the rate of complete post-molar follow-up (from 127/235=54.0% to 189/235=80.4%, p<0.001).ConclusionsThe association of telemonitoring with in-person appointments could have had an advantage in post-molar follow-up since it did not reduce adherence to hormonal surveillance. Shortening post-molar follow-up after complete mole to 90 days after the first normal hCG level increased the rate of complete post-molar follow-up.
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Cha E, Mathis NJ, Joshi H, Sharma S, Zinovoy M, Ru M, Cahlon O, Gillespie EF, Marshall DC. Bias in Patient Experience Scores in Radiation Oncology: A Multicenter Retrospective Analysis. J Am Coll Radiol 2022; 19:542-551. [PMID: 35247326 PMCID: PMC9017791 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2022.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patient experience scores are increasingly important in measuring quality of care and determining reimbursement from payers, including the Hospital Value-Based Purchasing Program and the Radiation Oncology Model. However, the role of bias in patient experience scores in oncology is unknown, raising the possibility that such payment structures may inadvertently perpetuate bias in reimbursement. Therefore, the authors characterized patient-, physician-, and practice-level predictors of patient experience scores in patients undergoing radiation therapy. METHODS The authors retrospectively reviewed patient experience surveys for radiation oncology patients treated at two large multisite academic cancer centers. The outcome was responses on four survey questions. Covariates included self-reported patient demographics, physician characteristics, practice setting characteristics, and wait-time rating linked to each survey. Multivariable ordinal regression models were fitted to identify predictors of receiving a higher score on each of the survey questions. RESULTS In total, 2,868 patients completed surveys and were included in the analysis. Patient experience scores were generally high, with >90% of respondents answering 5 of 5 on the four survey items. Physician gender was not associated with any measured patient experience outcomes (P > 0.40 for all). Independent predictors of higher score included a wait-time experience classified as "good" as compared with "not good" (q < .001 for all). CONCLUSIONS Oncology practices aiming to improve patient experience scores may wish to focus their attention on improving wait times for patients. Although a difference in patient experience scores on the basis of physician gender was not observed, such bias is likely to be complex, and further research is needed to characterize its effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Cha
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Noah J Mathis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Himanshu Joshi
- Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Sonam Sharma
- Assistant Program Director, Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Melissa Zinovoy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Meng Ru
- Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Oren Cahlon
- Deputy Physician-in-Chief for Strategic Partnerships and Vice Chair, Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Erin F Gillespie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Deborah C Marshall
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York.
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Telemedicine Use and Satisfaction Among Radiation Oncologists During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evaluation of Current Trends and Future Opportunities. Adv Radiat Oncol 2022; 7:100835. [PMID: 34993359 PMCID: PMC8713057 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2021.100835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose During the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine became an attractive alternative to in-person appointments. The role of telemedicine in patients who undergo frequent on-site treatment, such as radiation therapy, is unclear. The purpose of this study was to examine telemedicine use, physician satisfaction, and barriers to continued use in radiation oncology. Methods and Materials An anonymous, electronic survey was distributed to radiation oncologists internationally between June and October 2020. Respondents described demographic and practice characteristics, and a 5-point Likert scale assessed provider satisfaction, ease of use, and overall utility of telemedicine. Analyses include descriptive statistics and subgroup comparisons using the χ2 test and Fisher's exact test. Results The response rate was 4.3%. Two hundred thirty-two respondents completed the survey, 63.8% of whom were male, 52.6% aged 50 or younger, and 78.0% from the United States. Only 14.2% used telemedicine previously, which increased to 93.1% during COVID-19. Among all telemedicine users, usage rates were 77.9% for initial consultations, 97.2% for follow-up visits, and 35.9% for on-treatment visits. Of the respondents, 69.8% reported that <25% of patients requiring treatment experienced delays due to COVID-19. Most conducted appointments from the workplace, with 40.1% also doing so from home. Satisfaction was high at 73.8%, perceived usefulness was 76.9%, and 81.5% hope to continue using telemedicine after the pandemic. However, 82.4% had concerns with the inability to examine patients and 63.0% had concerns about poor patient access to the required technology. In addition, 49.5% had concerns regarding continued billing/reimbursement, less commonly at government centers (18.8%) compared with academic/satellite facilities (52.7%) and free-standing centers/community hospitals (50.7%, P = .039 for both comparisons). These concerns were also significantly higher among US physicians (53.2% vs 34.9%, P = .048). Conclusions Widespread adoption of telemedicine by radiation oncologists occurred during COVID-19 with high rates of satisfaction and interest in continued use. Sustained reimbursement for telemedicine services is a significant concern, particularly in the United States and outside of government facilities.
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Suleman A, Vijenthira A, Berlin A, Prica A, Rodin D. The Use of Virtual Care in Patients with Hematologic Malignancies: A Scoping Review. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:892-900. [PMID: 35200575 PMCID: PMC8871074 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29020076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing interest from cancer patients and their healthcare providers in the use of virtual care in routine clinical practice. In the setting of hematologic malignancy, where patients often undergo complex and immunodepleting treatments, understanding how to use virtual care safely and effectively is critically important. We aimed to describe the use of virtual care in patients with hematologic malignancies and to examine physician- and patient-reported outcomes in the form of a systematic scoping review. An electronic search of PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Elsevier Embase, Scopus, and EBSCO CINAHL was conducted from January 2000 to April 2021. A comprehensive search strategy was used to identify relevant articles, and data were extracted to assess the study design, population, setting, patient characteristics, virtual care platform, and study results. Studies were included if they described the use of virtual care for patients with hematologic malignancies; commentaries were excluded. Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria after abstract and full-text review. Three studies found that app-based tools were effective in monitoring patient symptoms and triggering alerts for more urgent follow-up. Four studies described the use of phone-based interventions. Five studies found that videoconferencing, with both physicians and oncology nurses, was highly rated by patients. Emerging themes included high levels of patient satisfaction across all domains of virtual care. Provider satisfaction scores were rated lower than patient scores, with concerns about technical issues leading to challenges with virtual care. Four studies found that virtual care allowed providers to promptly respond to patient concerns, especially when patients were experiencing side-effects or had questions about their treatment. Overall, the use of virtual care in patients with hematologic malignancies appears feasible, and resulted in high patient satisfaction. Further research is needed in order to evaluate the optimal method of integrating virtual care into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Suleman
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
- Correspondence:
| | - Abi Vijenthira
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada; (A.V.); (A.P.)
| | - Alejandro Berlin
- Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada; (A.B.); (D.R.)
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Anca Prica
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada; (A.V.); (A.P.)
| | - Danielle Rodin
- Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada; (A.B.); (D.R.)
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
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Maruthur M, Lee E, Dusza S, Nehal K, Rossi A. Pilot Survey of Adoption of Telemedicine in Mohs Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Dermatol Surg 2022; 48:187-190. [PMID: 34923531 DOI: 10.1097/dss.0000000000003352] [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 The Covid-19 Pandemic prompted the widespread implementation of telemedicine across healthcare. OBJECTIVE To analyze telemedicine adoption by Mohs Micrographic surgeons (MMS) during the COVID-19 pandemic; to analyze the attitudes and perceived barriers to its long-term continuation by MMS practices. METHODS AND MATERIALS An online multiple-choice survey was distributed to members of the American College of Mohs Surgeons. RESULTS 86.1% of surveyed Mohs surgeons initiated telemedicine during the pandemic surge. The most common uses for telemedicine amongst respondents were post-surgery management (77.4%), "spot checks" (60.9%), and surgical consultations (59.1%). 73.1% report patients were receptive to telemedicine. 68.6% believe that telemedicine has a place in dermatologic surgery; 49.5% plan to incorporate telemedicine into their surgical practices long-term. Physical exam limitations, fitting telemedicine into practice workflow, and patient reception/patient training were viewed as the most significant barriers to long-term implementation. CONCLUSIONS While valuable use cases for telemedicine were identified with most Mohs surgeon respondents feeling that telemedicine has a place in their practices, there is uncertainty in how to implement telemedicine into the dermatologic surgery practice workflow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Maruthur
- Department of Dermatology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Erica Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Mohs Micrographic and Dermatologic Surgery, New York, New York
| | - Stephen Dusza
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Kishwer Nehal
- Department of Dermatology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Mohs Micrographic and Dermatologic Surgery, New York, New York
| | - Anthony Rossi
- Department of Dermatology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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Qian AS, Schiaffino MK, Nalawade V, Aziz L, Pacheco FV, Nguyen B, Vu P, Patel SP, Martinez M, Murphy JD. Disparities in telemedicine during COVID-19. Cancer Med 2022; 11:1192-1201. [PMID: 34989148 PMCID: PMC8855911 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.4518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oncology rapidly shifted to telemedicine in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine can increase access to healthcare, but recent research has shown disparities exist with telemedicine use during the pandemic. This study evaluated health disparities associated with telemedicine uptake during the COVID-19 pandemic among cancer patients in a tertiary care academic medical center. METHODS This retrospective cohort study evaluated telemedicine use among adult cancer patients who received outpatient medical oncology care within a tertiary care academic healthcare system between January and September 2020. We used multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression models to determine how telemedicine use varied by patient race/ethnicity, primary language, insurance status, and income level. We assessed geospatial links between zip-code level COVID-19 infection rates and telemedicine use. RESULTS Among 29,421 patient encounters over the study period, 8,541 (29%) were delivered via telemedicine. Several groups of patients were less likely to use telemedicine, including Hispanic (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.86, p = 0.03), Asian (aOR 0.79, p = 0.002), Spanish-speaking (aOR 0.71, p = 0.0006), low-income (aOR 0.67, p < 0.0001), and those with Medicaid (aOR 0.66, p < 0.0001). Lower rates of telemedicine use were found in zip codes with higher rates of COVID-19 infection. Each 10% increase in COVID-19 infection rates was associated with an 8.3% decrease in telemedicine use (p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates racial/ethnic, language, and income-level disparities with telemedicine use, which ultimately led patients with the highest risk of COVID-19 infection to use telemedicine the least. Additional research to better understand actionable barriers will help improve telemedicine access among our underserved populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander S. Qian
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied SciencesUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Melody K. Schiaffino
- School of Public HealthDivision of Health Management and PolicySan Diego State UniversitySan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
- Center for Health Equity, Education and Research (CHEER)University of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Vinit Nalawade
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied SciencesUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Lara Aziz
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied SciencesUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Fernanda V. Pacheco
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied SciencesUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Bao Nguyen
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied SciencesUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Peter Vu
- Department of MedicineDivision of Hematology‐OncologyUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Sandip P. Patel
- Department of MedicineDivision of Hematology‐OncologyUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Maria Elena Martinez
- Center for Health Equity, Education and Research (CHEER)University of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
- University of California San Diego Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity ScienceLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - James D. Murphy
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied SciencesUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
- Center for Health Equity, Education and Research (CHEER)University of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
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McGrowder DA, Miller FG, Vaz K, Anderson Cross M, Anderson-Jackson L, Bryan S, Latore L, Thompson R, Lowe D, McFarlane SR, Dilworth L. The Utilization and Benefits of Telehealth Services by Health Care Professionals Managing Breast Cancer Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:1401. [PMID: 34683081 PMCID: PMC8535379 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9101401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Telehealth is the delivery of many health care services and technologies to individuals at different geographical areas and is categorized as asynchronously or synchronously. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused major disruptions in health care delivery to breast cancer (BCa) patients and there is increasing demand for telehealth services. Globally, telehealth has become an essential means of communication between patient and health care provider. The application of telehealth to the treatment of BCa patients is evolving and increasingly research has demonstrated its feasibility and effectiveness in improving clinical, psychological and social outcomes. Two areas of telehealth that have significantly grown in the past decade and particularly since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic are telerehabilitation and teleoncology. These two technological systems provide opportunities at every stage of the cancer care continuum for BCa patients. We conducted a literature review that examined the use of telehealth services via its various modes of delivery among BCa patients particularly in areas of screening, diagnosis, treatment modalities, as well as satisfaction among patients and health care professionals. The advantages of telehealth models of service and delivery challenges to patients in remote areas are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donovan A. McGrowder
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica; (K.V.); (L.A.-J.); (L.L.); (R.T.); (D.L.); (L.D.)
| | - Fabian G. Miller
- Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Education, The Mico University College, 1A Marescaux Road, Kingston 5, Jamaica;
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica
| | - Kurt Vaz
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica; (K.V.); (L.A.-J.); (L.L.); (R.T.); (D.L.); (L.D.)
| | - Melisa Anderson Cross
- School of Allied Health and Wellness, College of Health Sciences, University of Technology, Kingston 7, Jamaica;
| | - Lennox Anderson-Jackson
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica; (K.V.); (L.A.-J.); (L.L.); (R.T.); (D.L.); (L.D.)
| | - Sophia Bryan
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica;
| | - Lyndon Latore
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica; (K.V.); (L.A.-J.); (L.L.); (R.T.); (D.L.); (L.D.)
| | - Rory Thompson
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica; (K.V.); (L.A.-J.); (L.L.); (R.T.); (D.L.); (L.D.)
| | - Dwight Lowe
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica; (K.V.); (L.A.-J.); (L.L.); (R.T.); (D.L.); (L.D.)
| | - Shelly R. McFarlane
- Caribbean Institute for Health Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica;
| | - Lowell Dilworth
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica; (K.V.); (L.A.-J.); (L.L.); (R.T.); (D.L.); (L.D.)
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Johnson BA, Lindgren BR, Blaes AH, Parsons HM, LaRocca CJ, Farah R, Hui JYC. The New Normal? Patient Satisfaction and Usability of Telemedicine in Breast Cancer Care. Ann Surg Oncol 2021; 28:5668-5676. [PMID: 34275045 PMCID: PMC8286165 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-021-10448-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine was adopted to minimize exposure risks for patients and staff during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. This study measured patient satisfaction and telemedicine usability in breast cancer care. METHODS Adult breast cancer patients who had a telemedicine visit at a single academic institution (with surgical, radiation, or medical oncology) from 15 June 2020 to 4 September 2020 were surveyed anonymously. Patient and cancer characteristics were collected, and patient satisfaction and telemedicine usability were assessed using a modified Telehealth Usability Questionnaire with a 7-point Likert scale. Associations of satisfaction and usability with patient characteristics were analyzed using Wilcoxon rank-sum and Kruskal-Wallis tests. RESULTS Of 203 patients who agreed to be contacted, 78 responded, yielding a response rate of 38%. The median age of the respondents was 63 years (range 25-83 years). The majority lived in an urban area (61%), were white (92%), and saw a medical oncologist (62%). The median patient satisfaction score was 5.5 (interquartile range [IQR] 4.25-6.25). The median telemedicine usability score was 5.6 (IQR 4.4-6.2). A strong positive correlation was seen between satisfaction and usability, with a Spearman correlation coefficient (ρ) of 0.80 (p < 0.001). Satisfaction and usability scores did not vary significantly according to patient age, race, location of residence, insurance status, previous visit commute time, oncology specialty seen, prior telemedicine visits, or whether patients were actively receiving cancer treatment. CONCLUSIONS Breast cancer patients were satisfied with telemedicine and found it usable. Patient satisfaction and telemedicine usability should not limit the use of telemedicine in future post-pandemic breast cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Johnson
- University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Bruce R Lindgren
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Anne H Blaes
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Helen M Parsons
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Christopher J LaRocca
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ronda Farah
- Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Jane Yuet Ching Hui
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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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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Chan RJ, Crichton M, Crawford-Williams F, Agbejule OA, Yu K, Hart NH, de Abreu Alves F, Ashbury FD, Eng L, Fitch M, Jain H, Jefford M, Klemanski D, Koczwara B, Loh K, Prasad M, Rugo H, Soto-Perez-de-Celis E, van den Hurk C, Chan A. The efficacy, challenges, and facilitators of telemedicine in post-treatment cancer survivorship care: an overview of systematic reviews. Ann Oncol 2021; 32:1552-1570. [PMID: 34509615 DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine services have been increasingly used to facilitate post-treatment cancer survivorship care, including improving access; monitoring health status, health behaviors, and symptom management; enhancing information exchange; and mitigating the costs of care delivery, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. To inform guidance for the use of telemedicine in the post-COVID era, the aim of this overview of systematic reviews (SRs) was to evaluate the efficacy of, and survivor engagement in, telemedicine interventions in the post-treatment survivorship phase, and to consider implementation barriers and facilitators. METHODS PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, CINAHL, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched. SRs that examined the use of telemedicine in the post-treatment phase of cancer survivorship, published between January 2010 and April 2021, were included. Efficacy data were synthesized narratively. Implementation barriers and facilitators were synthesized using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. RESULTS Twenty-nine SRs were included. A substantive body of evidence found telemedicine to benefit the management of psychosocial and physical effects, particularly for improving fatigue and cognitive function. There was a lack of evidence on the use of telemedicine in the prevention and surveillance for recurrences and new cancers as well as management of chronic medical conditions. This overview highlights a range of diverse barriers and facilitators at the patient, health service, and system levels. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights the benefits of telemedicine in addressing psychosocial and physical effects, but not in other areas of post-treatment cancer survivorship care. This large review provides practical guidance for use of telemedicine in post-treatment survivorship care.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Chan
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia; Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - M Crichton
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia; Bond University Nutrition and Dietetics Research Group, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - F Crawford-Williams
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia; Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - O A Agbejule
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia; Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - K Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - N H Hart
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia; Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia; School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia; Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - F de Abreu Alves
- Department of Stomatology, A. C. Camargo Cancer Center, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - F D Ashbury
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - L Eng
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Department of Medicine, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada; University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - M Fitch
- Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - H Jain
- Adult Hematolymphoid Division, Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, Affiliated to Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - M Jefford
- Department of Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Australian Cancer Survivorship Centre, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - D Klemanski
- Cancer Support Service Line, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - James Cancer Hospital, Columbus, USA
| | - B Koczwara
- Flinders Medical Centre, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - K Loh
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - M Prasad
- Paediatric Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - H Rugo
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - E Soto-Perez-de-Celis
- Department of Geriatrics. Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - C van den Hurk
- Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Department of Research and Development, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - A Chan
- School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, USA
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A Cross-Sectional Survey Exploring the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Cancer Care of Adolescents and Young Adults. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 28:3201-3213. [PMID: 34436044 PMCID: PMC8395398 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol28040278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to describe the negative and positive impacts of changes in cancer care delivery due to COVID-19 pandemic for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) in Canada, as well as the correlates of negative impact and their perspectives on optimization of cancer care. We conducted an online, self-administered survey of AYAs with cancer living in Canada between January and February 2021. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with a negative impact on cancer care. Of the 805 participants, 173 (21.5%) experienced a negative impact on their cancer care including delays in diagnostic tests (11.9%), cancer treatment (11.4%), and appointments (11.1%). A prior diagnosis of mental or chronic physical health condition, an annual income of <20,000 CAD, ongoing cancer treatment, and province of residence were independently associated with a negative cancer care impact (p-value < 0.05). The majority (n = 767, 95.2%) stated a positive impact of the changes to cancer care delivery, including the implementation of virtual healthcare visits (n = 601, 74.6%). Pandemic-related changes in cancer care delivery have unfavorably and favorably influenced AYAs with cancer. Interventions to support AYAs who are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of the pandemic, and the thoughtful integration of virtual care into cancer care delivery models is essential.
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46
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Thom B, Benedict C, Friedman DN, Watson SE, Zeitler MS, Chino F. Economic distress, financial toxicity, and medical cost-coping in young adult cancer survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from an online sample. Cancer 2021; 127:4481-4491. [PMID: 34351638 PMCID: PMC8426858 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Young adult (YA) cancer survivors are at risk for financial toxicity during and after cancer treatment. Financial toxicity has been associated with medical‐related cost‐coping behaviors such as skipping or delaying treatment. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has resulted in dire economic consequences that may worsen financial hardship among young survivors. Methods This was a cross‐sectional survey; data collection occurred online. A convenience sample was recruited through YA cancer advocacy groups and social media. Negative economic events associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic (eg, income loss, increased debt, and decreased job security) and medical‐related cost‐coping were documented. A validated measure assessed cancer‐related financial toxicity. Results Participants (N = 212) had a mean age of 35.3 years at survey completion and a mean age of 27.4 years at diagnosis. Financial toxicity (mean, 14.0; SD, 9.33) was high. Two‐thirds of the sample experienced at least 1 negative economic event during COVID‐19, and 71% engaged in at least 1 medical cost‐coping behavior. Cost‐coping and pandemic‐related negative economic events were significantly correlated with cancer‐related financial toxicity. In multivariable analyses, pandemic‐related negative economic events and financial toxicity were associated with cost‐coping. Conclusions Acute negative economic events associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic may exacerbate cancer‐related financial toxicity and overall financial hardship among YAs and lead to cost‐coping behaviors that can compromise survivorship care and health outcomes. Multilevel, systematic interventions are needed to address the financial needs of YA survivors after the global pandemic. This study illustrates how the acute negative economic events associated with the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic may have exacerbated existing cancer‐related financial toxicity and general financial hardship among young adult cancer survivors. These negative economic events and financial toxicity are associated with cost‐coping behaviors that can compromise survivorship care and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridgette Thom
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Catherine Benedict
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Danielle N Friedman
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | | | | | - Fumiko Chino
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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Record JD, Ziegelstein RC, Christmas C, Rand CS, Hanyok LA. Delivering Personalized Care at a Distance: How Telemedicine Can Foster Getting to Know the Patient as a Person. J Pers Med 2021; 11:137. [PMID: 33671324 PMCID: PMC7922915 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11020137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The promise of precision medicine is based on the use of new technologies to better characterize patients by defining individuals in the areas of genomics, proteomics, metabolomics and other aspects of biologic variability. Wise application of modern technology can similarly transform health visits with patients, allowing for better characterization of the patient's individual life circumstances than possible in a traditional office visit. The use of, and experience with, telemedicine have increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients and clinicians report high satisfaction with telemedicine, and the quality of communication and patient-centeredness experienced in this setting are both rated highly. In this article, we explore the benefits offered by telemedicine in facilitating personalized care with particular focus on telemedicine delivered by video platforms. We propose strategies and skills specific to the effective implementation of personalized telemedicine, drawing on literature in patient-centered communication and home visits. While traditional in-person office visits continue to offer important opportunities such as thorough physical examination and the potential for enhanced non-verbal communication, telemedicine offers many important advantages that can facilitate the process of getting to know the patient as a person.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet D. Record
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (R.C.Z.); (C.C.); (C.S.R.); (L.A.H.)
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