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Feyman Y, Griffith KN, Dorneo A, Simmons SF, Roumie CL, Mattocks KM. Physicians and Specialties in the Veterans Health Administration's Community Care Network. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2410841. [PMID: 38739394 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.10841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study of data from the US Veterans Health Administration examines the availability of services provided through community care networks by specialty and clinical characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin N Griffith
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Allison Dorneo
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts
- Department of Health, Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sandra F Simmons
- VA Tennessee Valley Health Care System, GRECC, South Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Christianne L Roumie
- VA Tennessee Valley Health Care System, GRECC, South Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds
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O'Connor L, Behar S, Refuerzo J, Mele X, Sundling E, Johnson SA, Faro JM, Lindenauer PK, Mattocks KM. Factors Impacting the Implementation of Mobile Integrated Health Programs for the Acute Care of Older Adults. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38498782 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2024.2333034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Objective: Emergency services utilization is increasing in older adult populations. Many such encounters may be preventable with better access to acute care in the community. Mobile integrated health (MIH) programs leverage mobile resources to deliver care and services to patients in the out-of-hospital environment and have the potential to improve clinical outcomes and decrease health care costs; however, they have not been widely implemented. We assessed barriers, potential facilitators, and other factors critical to the implementation of MIH programs with key vested partners.Methods: Professional and community-member partners were purposefully recruited to participate in recorded structured interviews. The study team used the Practical Robust Implementation and Sustainability Model (PRISM) framework to develop an interview guide and codebook. Coders employed a combination of deductive and inductive coding strategies to identify common themes across partner groups.Results: The study team interviewed 22 participants (mean age 56, 68% female). A cohort of professional subject matter experts included physicians, paramedics, public health personnel, and hospital administrators. A cohort of lay community partners included patients and caregivers. Coders identified three prominent themes that impact MIH implementation. First, MIH is disruptive to existing clinical workflows. Second, using MIH to improve patients' experience during acute care encounters is key to intervention adoption. Finally, legislative action is needed to augment central financial and regulatory policies to ensure the adoption of MIH programs.Conclusions: Common themes impacting the implementation of MIH programs were identified across vested partner groups. Multilevel strategies are needed to address patient adoption, clinical partners' workflow, and legislative policies to ensure the success of MIH programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel O'Connor
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester Massachusetts, United States
| | - Stephanie Behar
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester Massachusetts, United States
| | - Jade Refuerzo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester Massachusetts, United States
| | - Xhenifer Mele
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester Massachusetts, United States
| | - Elsa Sundling
- Department of Industrial Management, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sharon A Johnson
- Robert A. Foisie School of Business, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester Massachusetts, United States
| | - Jamie M Faro
- Department of Population Health and Quantitative Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School Worcester Massachusetts, United States
| | - Peter K Lindenauer
- Department of Healthcare Delivery and Population Sciences and Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Department of Population Health and Quantitative Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School Worcester Massachusetts, United States
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Relyea MR, Kinney RL, DeRycke EC, Haskell S, Mattocks KM, Bastian LA. Evaluating an Enterprise-Wide Initiative to enhance healthcare coordination for rural women Veterans using the RE-AIM framework. Front Health Serv 2024; 3:1237701. [PMID: 38282637 PMCID: PMC10811198 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2023.1237701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Introduction The Veterans Health Administration (VA) Office of Rural Health (ORH) and Office of Women's Health Services (OWH) in FY21 launched a three-year Enterprise-Wide Initiative (EWI) to expand access to preventive care for rural, women Veterans. Through this program, women's health care coordinators (WHCC) were funded to coordinate mammography, cervical cancer screening and maternity care for women Veterans at selected VA facilities. We conducted a mixed-methods evaluation using the RE-AIM framework to assess the program implementation. Materials and methods We collected quantitative data from the 14 program facilities on reach (i.e., Veterans served by the program), effectiveness (e.g., cancer screening compliance, communication), adoption, and maintenance of women's health care coordinators (WHCC) in FY2022. Implementation of the program was examined through semi-structured interviews with the facility WHCC funding initiator (e.g., the point of contact at facility who initiated the request for WHCC funding), WHCCs, and providers. Results Reach. The number of women Veterans and rural women Veterans served by the WHCC program grew (by 50% and 117% respectively). The program demonstrated effectiveness as screening rates increased for cervical and breast cancer screening (+0.9% and +.01%, respectively). Also, maternity care coordination phone encounters with Veterans grew 36%. Adoption: All facilities implemented care coordinators by quarter two of FY22. Implementation. Qualitative findings revealed facilitators and barriers to successful program implementation and care coordination. Maintenance: The EWI facilitated the recruitment and retention of WHCCs at respective VA facilities over time. Implications In rural areas, WHCCs can play a critical role in increasing Reach and effectiveness. The EWI demonstrated to be a successful care coordination model that can be feasibly Adopted, Implemented, and Maintained at rural VA facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark R. Relyea
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Rebecca L. Kinney
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, United States
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Eric C. DeRycke
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
| | - Sally Haskell
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Kristin M. Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, United States
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Lori A. Bastian
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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Kroll-Desrosiers A, Wallace KF, Higgins DM, Martino S, Mattocks KM. Musculoskeletal Pain During Pregnancy Among Veterans: Associations With Health and Health Care Utilization. Womens Health Issues 2024; 34:90-97. [PMID: 37580185 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is more likely to be diagnosed in veterans compared with the general population; however, MSK pain during pregnancy has not been studied in veterans. This study examined health and health care use differences between pregnant veterans with and without MSK pain (MSK-). METHODS Veterans who delivered a newborn before June 1, 2021, were identified from an existing cohort (n = 1,181). Survey and Veterans Health Administration (VA) electronic health record data were obtained on participants. Veterans meeting inclusion criteria were identified as those with MSK pain (MSK+) and were compared with MSK- participants. We examined differences between primary outcomes of VA health care engagement (including mental health diagnoses, health care visits, receipt of prescription opioids, and complementary and integrative health use) and secondary outcomes (including postpartum variables) between MSK pain groups. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. RESULTS There were 172 veterans (14.6%) who met MSK pain eligibility criteria. In adjusted models, MSK+ veterans were more likely to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder (aOR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.22-2.53) and post-traumatic stress disorder (aOR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.21-2.64) during pregnancy compared with MSK- veterans. The use of VA mental health care (aOR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.09-2.12) and the odds of receiving an opioid prescription during pregnancy (aOR, 2.76; 95% CI, 1.53-5.00) was higher in MSK+ veterans compared with MSK- veterans. Only a small proportion (3.6%) of our entire cohort used complementary and integrative health approaches during pregnancy. MSK+ veterans were more likely to deliver by cesarean section compared with MSK- veterans (36% vs. 26%). CONCLUSIONS MSK+ veterans were more likely to be diagnosed with mental health conditions and to use VA mental health care during pregnancy compared with MSK- veterans. Because veterans receive their obstetrical care in the community, understanding the unique needs of pregnant MSK+ veterans in comparison with MSK- veterans is important to provide comprehensive care during the perinatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts.
| | - Kate F Wallace
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts
| | - Diana M Higgins
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Steve Martino
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
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Mattocks KM, Kroll-Desrosiers A, Crowley S, Tuozzo K, Rifkin I, Moore D, Walker L, Bonegio R. Using RE-AIM to examine implementation of a tele-nephrology program for veterans living in rural areas. Front Health Serv 2023; 3:1205951. [PMID: 37780402 PMCID: PMC10533984 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2023.1205951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and refractory hypertension (rHTN) are common, chronic conditions that affect 10%-16% of Veterans. Several small studies have suggested that tele-nephrology can deliver nephrology care effectively to rural Veterans. The purpose of this evaluation was to examine perceptions and experiences with this tele-nephrology program among spoke site staff and clinicians using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework to guide our understanding of tele-nephrology implementation. Methods We conducted semi-structured interviews with fourteen clinicians at five tele-nephrology spoke sites. We used content analysis to analyze the results using our RE-AIM framework. Results Five major themes arose: (1) Active engagement of a centralized clinical champion was a key factor in early success of tele-nephrology program; (2) Transition from community-based nephrology to VA tele-nephrology was heralded as the most meaningful indicator of the effectiveness of the intervention; (3) Effective adoption strategies included bi-weekly training with Hub nephrology staff and engagement of a local renal champion; (4) Meeting the needs of Veterans through proper staffing during tele-nephrology examinations was a key priority in facility program implementation; and (5) Growing reliance on Hub nephrologists may give rise to insufficient availability of nephrology appointments in some Spoke sites. Discussion This evaluation represents an important step forward as VA considers how to provide care to Veterans at facilities without VA specialty providers. The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically shifted options for Veterans, and increasingly, the VA is moving to shift care from community to VA via virtual care. Further research should examine how the VA manages potential problems related to access to virtual providers and examine Veteran perspectives on community in-person vs. virtual VA care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M. Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, United States
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, United States
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Susan Crowley
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | | | - Ian Rifkin
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - David Moore
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Lorrie Walker
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, United States
| | - Ramon Bonegio
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
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Kroll-Desrosiers A, Copeland LA, Mengeling MA, Mattocks KM. Infertility Services for Veterans Enrolled in Veterans Health Administration Care. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:2347-2353. [PMID: 36810630 PMCID: PMC9943037 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08080-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility care is provided to Veterans through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical benefits package and includes infertility evaluation and many infertility treatments. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to examine the incidence and prevalence of infertility diagnoses and the receipt of infertility healthcare among Veterans using Veterans Health Administration (VHA) healthcare from 2018 to 2020. METHODS Veterans using the VHA and diagnosed with infertility during October 2017-September 2020 (FY18-20) were identified in VHA administrative data and through VA-purchased care (i.e., community care) claims. Infertility was categorized among men as azoospermia, oligospermia, and other and unspecified male infertility, and among women as anovulation, infertility of tubal origin, infertility of uterine origin, and other and unspecified female infertility using diagnosis and procedure codes (ICD-10, CPT). KEY RESULTS A total of 17,216 Veterans had at least one VHA infertility diagnosis in FY18, FY19, or FY20, including 8766 male Veterans and 8450 female Veterans. Incident diagnoses of infertility were observed in 7192 male Veterans (10.8/10,000 person (p)-years) and 5563 female Veterans (93.6/10,000 p-years). A large proportion of Veterans who were diagnosed with infertility received an infertility-related procedure in the year of their incident diagnosis (males: 74.7, 75.3, 65.0%, FY18-20 respectively; females: 80.9, 80.8, 72.9%, FY18-20 respectively). CONCLUSIONS In comparison to a recent study of active duty servicemembers, we found a lower rate of infertility among Veteran men and a higher rate among Veteran women. Further work is needed to investigate military exposures and circumstances that may lead to infertility. Given the rates of infertility among Veterans and active duty servicemembers, enhancing communications between Department of Defense and VHA systems regarding sources of and treatment for infertility is essential to help more men and women benefit from infertility care during military service or as Veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA.
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| | - Laurel A Copeland
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Michelle A Mengeling
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE) and VA Office of Rural Health (ORH), Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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Webermann AR, Nester MS, Gianoli MO, Black AC, Rosen MI, Mattocks KM, Portnoy GA. Compensation and Pension Exams for Military Sexual Trauma-Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Examiner Perspectives, Clinical Impacts on Veterans, and Strategies. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:428-434. [PMID: 37003918 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is estimated that in one in three women veterans experience military sexual trauma (MST), which is strongly associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A 2018 report indicated the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) processed approximately 12,000 disability claims annually for PTSD related to MST, most of which are filed by women. Part of the VBA adjudication process involves reviewing information from a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam, a forensic diagnostic evaluation that helps determine the relationship among military service, diagnoses, and current psychosocial functioning. The quality and outcome of these exams may affect veteran well-being and use of Veterans Health Administration (VHA) mental health care, but no work has looked at examiner perspectives of MST C&P exams and their potential clinical impacts on veteran claimants. METHODS Thirteen clinicians ("examiners") who conduct MST C&P exams through VHA were interviewed. Data were analyzed using rapid qualitative methods. RESULTS Examiners described MST exams as more clinically and diagnostically complex than non-MST PTSD exams. Examiners noted that assessing "markers" of MST (indication that MST occurred) could make veterans feel disbelieved; others raised concerns related to malingered PTSD symptoms. Examiners identified unique challenges for veterans who underreport MST (e.g., men and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer [LGBTQ+] veterans), and saw evaluations as a conduit to psychotherapy referrals and utilization of VHA mental health care. Last, examiners used strategies to convey respect and minimize retraumatization, including a standardized process and validating the difficulty of the process. CONCLUSIONS Examiners' responses offer insight into a process entered by thousands of veterans annually with PTSD. Strengthening the MST C&P process is a unique opportunity to enhance trust in the VBA claims process and increase likelihood of using VHA mental health care, especially for women veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliya R Webermann
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - M Shae Nester
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina
| | - Mayumi O Gianoli
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Anne C Black
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Marc I Rosen
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Galina A Portnoy
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Shapiro MO, Kroll-Desrosiers A, Mattocks KM. Understanding the Mental Health Impact of Previous Pregnancy Loss Among Currently Pregnant Veterans. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:422-427. [PMID: 37100719 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancy loss, including miscarriage and stillbirth, is common and associated with an increased risk for prenatal and postnatal depression, as well as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Racial disparities have been observed in pregnancy loss, with Black women having higher rates of pregnancy loss and postnatal depression. However, no research to date has examined the mental health and demographic correlates of pregnancy loss within a veteran population. METHOD The current study examined associations between pregnancy loss and mental health and demographic correlates among 1,324 pregnant veterans, of which 368 had a history of at least one stillbirth and/or miscarriage. RESULTS Veterans with a history of pregnancy loss, compared with those without, were more likely to have a diagnosis of anxiety (52.7% vs. 46.4%, p = .04), depression (62.5% vs. 50.8%, p = .0001), or PTSD (46.5% vs. 37.6%, p = .003); were more likely to report receiving mental health care during pregnancy (23.1% vs. 16.8%, p = .01); and were more likely to have experienced military sexual trauma (harassment: 56.5% vs. 49.9%, p = .04; rape: 38.9% vs. 29.3%, p = .0004). Results also indicated that Black veterans were more likely to report a history of pregnancy loss (32.1% vs. 25.3%, p = .01). Further, Black veterans were more likely to experience clinically meaningful prenatal depression symptoms (adjusted odds ratio: 1.90; 95% confidence interval: 1.42-2.54) after accounting for past loss and age in logistic regression models. DISCUSSION Taken together, findings from the present investigation corroborate previous research highlighting the deleterious impact of pregnancy loss and extend prior work by examining these associations among a diverse sample of pregnant veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary O Shapiro
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, Louisiana; South Central Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana.
| | - Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
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Kinney RL, Copeland LA, Kroll-Desrosiers AR, Walker L, Marteeny V, Mattocks KM. Newborn Outcomes Among Veterans Utilizing VHA Maternity Benefits, 2016-2020. Mil Med 2023; 188:e1252-e1259. [PMID: 34718702 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usab457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Public Law 111-163 Section 206 of the Caregivers and Veteran Omnibus Health Services Act amended the Veterans Health Administration's (VHA) medical benefits package to include 7 days of medical care for newborns delivered by Veterans. We examined the newborn outcomes among a cohort of women Veterans receiving VHA maternity benefits and care coordination. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis of phone interview data from Veterans enrolled in the COMFORT (Center for Maternal and Infant Outcomes Research in Translation) study 2016-2020. Multivariable regression estimated associations with newborn outcomes (preterm birth; low birthweight). RESULTS During the study period, 829 infants were born to 811 Veterans. Mothers reported "excellent health" for 94% of infants. The prevalence of preterm birth was slightly higher in our cohort (11% vs. 10%), as were low birthweight (9%) deliveries, compared to the general population (8.28%). Additionally, 42% of infants in our cohort required follow-up care for non-routine health conditions; 11% were uninsured at 2 months of age. Adverse newborn outcomes were more common for mothers who were older in age, self-identified as non-white in race and/or of Hispanic ethnicity, had a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder, or had gestational comorbidities. CONCLUSIONS The current VHA maternity coverage appears to be an effective policy for ensuring the well-being and health care coverage for the majority of Veterans and their newborns in the first days of life, thereby reducing the risk of inadequate prenatal and neonatal care. Future research should examine costs associated with extending coverage to 14 days or longer, comparing those to the projected excess costs of neonatal health problems. VHA policy should continue to support expanding care and resources through the Maternity Care Coordinator model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Kinney
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA 01053, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Laurel A Copeland
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA 01053, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Aimee R Kroll-Desrosiers
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA 01053, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Lorrie Walker
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA 01053, USA
| | - Valerie Marteeny
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA 01053, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA 01053, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
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Mattocks KM, LaChappelle KM, Krein SL, DeBar LL, Martino S, Edmond S, Ankawi B, MacLean RR, Higgins DM, Murphy JL, Cooper E, Heapy AA. Pre-implementation formative evaluation of cooperative pain education and self-management expanding treatment for real-world access: A pragmatic pain trial. Pain Pract 2023; 23:338-348. [PMID: 36527287 DOI: 10.1111/papr.13195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cognitive behavioral therapy for chronic pain (CBT-CP) is an evidence-based treatment for improving functioning and pain intensity for people with chronic pain with extensive evidence of effectiveness. However, there has been relatively little investigation of the factors associated with successful implementation and uptake of CBT-CP, particularly clinician and system level factors. This formative evaluation examined barriers and facilitators to the successful implementation and uptake of CBT-CP from the perspective of CBT-CP clinicians and referring primary care clinicians. METHODS Qualitative interviews guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research were conducted at nine geographically diverse Veterans Affairs sites as part of a pragmatic clinical trial comparing synchronous, clinician-delivered CBT-CP and remotely delivered, technology-assisted CBT-CP. Analysis was informed by a grounded theory approach. RESULTS Twenty-six clinicians (CBT-CP clinicians = 17, primary care clinicians = 9) from nine VA medical centers participated in individual qualitative interviews conducted by telephone from April 2019 to August 2020. Four themes emerged in the qualitative interviews: (1) the complexity and variability of referral pathways across sites, (2) referring clinician's lack of knowledge about CBT-CP, (3) referring clinician's difficulty identifying suitable candidates for CBT-CP, and (4) preference for interventions that can be completed from home. CONCLUSIONS This formative evaluation identified clinician and system barriers to widespread implementation of CBT-CP and allowed for refinement of the subsequent implementation of two forms of CBT-CP in an ongoing pragmatic trial. Identification of relative difference in barriers and facilitators in the two forms of CBT-CP may emerge more clearly in a pragmatic trial that evaluates how treatments perform in real-world settings and may provide important information to guide future system-wide implementation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kathryn M LaChappelle
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sarah L Krein
- VA Ann Arbor Center for Clinical Management Research, Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lynn L DeBar
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Washington, USA
| | - Steve Martino
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sara Edmond
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Brett Ankawi
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - R Ross MacLean
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Diana M Higgins
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennifer L Murphy
- US Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Emily Cooper
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alicia A Heapy
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Mattocks KM, Marteeny V, Walker L, Kroll-Desrosiers A, Mengeling M. Examining Veterans' Experiences With In Vitro Fertilization Provided Under P.L. 114-223. Med Care 2023; 61:192-199. [PMID: 36689683 PMCID: PMC10006296 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Until recently, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical benefits package has expressly excluded in vitro fertilization (IVF) services for Veterans experiencing fertility problems. However, P.L. 114-223 (2016) allows VHA to provide Assisted Reproductive Technology, including IVF, to certain eligible Veterans. Little is known regarding Veterans' experiences accessing IVF through VA Community Care contracts with IVF providers. OBJECTIVE To examine Veterans' experiences with IVF services provided under the auspices of P.L. 114-223. RESEARCH DESIGN Telephone or video interviews were conducted with male and female Veterans and opposite-sex spouses of Veterans who had been approved for IVF. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using content analysis techniques. Major themes and representative quotes were derived from the analyses. RESULTS Ninety-six Veterans and 14 spouses participated in our interviews. Six major themes arose from these interviews, including (1) the need for improved communication regarding IVF benefits, (2) the need for expanded IVF benefits, (3) the lack of a comprehensive care coordination program, (4) poor access to IVF providers in some areas of the country, (5) special services needed for Veterans with spinal cord injuries, and (6) the IVF policy may be discriminatory in nature to single and LGBTQ Veterans. CONCLUSIONS Many Veterans with service-connected conditions related to reproductive health have taken advantage of the IVF benefit, though limitations on these benefits have prevented other Veterans from taking advantage of the IVF benefit. Further attention needs to be paid to improving communication and coordination of IVF services with ongoing VA care and ensuring special populations, including those living in rural areas and Veterans with spinal cord injuries, have access to IVF services as needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M. Mattocks
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
| | - Valerie Marteeny
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
| | - Lorrie Walker
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
| | - Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
| | - Michelle Mengeling
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE) and Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
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12
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Anderson EH, Morrow C, Mattocks KM, Shivakumar G. Perinatal Symptoms and Treatment Engagement in Female Veterans. Mil Med 2023; 188:e468-e472. [PMID: 34244790 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usab278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women veterans using Veterans Health Care Administration maternity benefits have a high prevalence of mental health disorders, including depression, PTSD, and anxiety. Additionally, women with psychiatric histories often experience a relapse or worsening of symptoms during pregnancy and postpartum. Adequate perinatal mental healthcare engagement is critical to optimizing outcomes for mother and child. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study evaluated psychiatric symptom severity and predictors of women veteran's mental health treatment engagement during pregnancy and postpartum at the VA North Texas Health Care System. Seventy women using Veterans Health Administration were assessed longitudinally via chart review and interviews (including the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale) during pregnancy and postpartum. A Friedman test was used to evaluate the change in symptom severity during (1) the 6 months before pregnancy, (2) pregnancy, and (3) postpartum. Multivariate logistic regressions were used to determine predictors of attending outpatient mental health appointments. Potential predictors examined included sociodemographic factors, symptoms of depression, history of military sexual assault, presence of a pre-pregnancy psychiatric diagnosis, and attendance of mental health appointments before pregnancy. RESULTS Approximately 40% of participants demonstrated at least mild psychiatric symptoms before pregnancy, and symptom severity did not significantly change across the perinatal period (pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, and postpartum) X2 (2, n = 70) = 3.56, P = .17. Depressive symptoms during the 2nd or 3rd trimester were a significant predictor for attendance of mental health appointments during both pregnancy (OR = 1.18, 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.34) and postpartum (OR = 1.18, 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.36). An active psychiatric diagnosis during the 6 months before pregnancy was also a significant predictor of attendance following delivery (OR = 14.63, 95% CI, 1.55 to 138.51). CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that women with prior histories of mental health conditions will continue to be symptomatic, and this is a good predictor of mental health treatment engagement during the perinatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carolyn Morrow
- Mental Health, VA North Texas Health Care System, Dallas, TX 75216, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA 01053, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Geetha Shivakumar
- Mental Health, VA North Texas Health Care System, Dallas, TX 75216, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
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Copeland LA, Kinney RL, Kroll-Desrosiers AR, Shivakumar G, Mattocks KM. Medications with Potential for Fetal Risk Prescribed to Veterans. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2022; 31:1450-1458. [PMID: 35352967 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2021.0529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Women service members of the past 20 years experienced high rates of traumatizing events resulting in pharmacological treatment. Post-military lives may include having children. Typically, Veterans Health Administration (VHA) patients' pregnancies are managed outside the VHA. This study examined medication exposures during pregnancy. Materials and Methods: The Center for Maternal and Infant Outcomes Research in Translation (COMFORT) study collected primary survey data and linked secondary health care data from the VHA from 2015 to 2021. Medication fills and covariates were extracted for three 9-month periods: preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum. Multiple regression assessed factors associated with use during pregnancy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)/serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) or of non-recommended, potentially risky drugs, and of discontinuation of those medications from prepregnancy to pregnancy. Results: The cohort comprised 501 women-29% Black, 65% White, and 6% other races, of whom 63% had 50%-100% service-connected disability. During pregnancy, 36% had a pain-related disorder, 19% major depression, and 18% post-traumatic stress disorder. The median number of drug classes prescribed during pregnancy was 5. The use of SSRI/SNRI antidepressants dropped from 36% preconception to 26% during pregnancy including new starts; 15% discontinued SSRI/SNRI. Comorbidity predicted medication use. Depression predicted discontinuing SSRI/SNRI during pregnancy; no predictors of discontinuing potentially risky drugs were identified. Conclusions: Based on prescriptions filled within the VHA only-ignoring potential community-based fills-women veterans were prescribed numerous medications during pregnancy and discontinued antidepressants alarmingly. Veterans of childbearing potential should receive counseling about medication use before pregnancy occurs. Their non-VHA obstetricians and VHA providers should share information to optimize outcomes, reviewing medications as soon as pregnancy is detected as well as after pregnancy concludes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel A Copeland
- Research Service, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rebecca L Kinney
- Research Service, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Aimee R Kroll-Desrosiers
- Research Service, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Geetha Shivakumar
- Research Service, VA North Texas Health Care System, Dallas, Texas, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Research Service, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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14
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Mattocks KM, Kroll-Desrosiers A, Marteeny V, Walker L, Vogt D, Iversen KM, Bastian L. Veterans' Perinatal Care and Mental Health Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Examination of the Role of Prior Trauma and Pandemic-Related Stressors. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2022; 31:1507-1517. [PMID: 35230179 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2021.0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Many pregnant and postpartum Veterans have experienced multiple lifetime traumas, including military sexual trauma, intimate partner violence, and combat trauma. These women may be particularly vulnerable to increased post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health problems following additional trauma exposures or stressful events, such as Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study sought to examine the impact of prior trauma exposures on the lived experience of pregnant and postpartum Veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: Pregnant Veterans at 15 VA medical centers were surveyed at 20 weeks of pregnancy and 3 months postpartum asked about their COVID-19-related perinatal and mental health experiences, as well as the stressors that impacted them as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: Overall, 111 women Veterans completed both the pregnancy and postpartum surveys that included COVID-19 items. Sixty percent of our sample had experienced at least one potentially traumatic lifetime event, with 22% of our sample experiencing two or more of the included exposures. Women with a trauma history had 3.5 times increased odds of reporting their mental health as "much worse" compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06-11.75) and were more likely to report that COVID-19 negatively affected their mental or emotional health "a lot" compared with women without a trauma history (odds ratio: 8.5; 95% CI: 1.93-37.48). Conclusions: COVID-19 has had a significant impact on pregnant and postpartum Veterans' mental health. Obstetricians should consider strategies to ensure women have access to mental health care during pregnancy, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Hospitals should also consider the importance of labor support companions during the COVID-19 pandemic and examine adjusting policies to allow for at least one labor support companion during labor and delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Mattocks
- Department of Research, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
- UMass Chan Medical School, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (PQHS), Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- Department of Research, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
- UMass Chan Medical School, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences (PQHS), Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Valerie Marteeny
- Department of Research, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lorrie Walker
- Department of Research, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dawne Vogt
- Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Jamaica Plains, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katherine M Iversen
- Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Jamaica Plains, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lori Bastian
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME), VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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15
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Kroll-Desrosiers A, Kinney RL, Marteeny V, Mattocks KM. Exploring the Acceptability of Expanded Perinatal Depression Care Practices Among Women Veterans. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:762-769. [PMID: 36042083 PMCID: PMC9427169 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07573-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Veterans receive obstetrical care from community-based providers contracted through the Veterans Health Administration (VA); however, Veterans remain eligible for VA mental healthcare in the perinatal period. To date, few studies have focused specifically on the mental health needs of Veterans during the perinatal period. OBJECTIVE To examine the acceptability of more comprehensive perinatal mental healthcare screening and treatment in VA care, we explored pregnant and postpartum Veteran perspectives of United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations that aim to expand mental health counseling for the prevention and treatment of perinatal depression. DESIGN Semi-structured interviews with pregnant and postpartum Veterans enrolled in VA care, integrated with quantitative survey data. PARTICIPANTS Pregnant and postpartum Veterans (n=27) who had delivered infants or were due by February 2020. APPROACH Framework analysis with an inductive approach was utilized to understand our data, interpret and code our transcripts, and develop themes. KEY RESULTS Fewer than half (44%) of the women reported seeing a mental health provider at the beginning of their pregnancy. We found that Veterans support USPSTF recommendations in the VA, consider mental healthcare to be very important during the perinatal period, would like better access to mental healthcare resources and peer support networks, and suggest that perinatal depression screening could be more extensive. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the implementation of more comprehensive perinatal depression prevention policies and practices within VA care. Understanding the real-world feasibility and prevailing barriers to comprehensive perinatal depression care is needed to inform implementation of the USPSTF recommendations or a similar intervention tailored for VA care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA.
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| | - Rebecca L Kinney
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Valerie Marteeny
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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16
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Iverson KM, Dardis CM, Cowlishaw S, Webermann AR, Shayani DR, Dichter ME, Mitchell KS, Mattocks KM, Gerber MR, Portnoy GR. Effects of Intimate Partner Violence During COVID-19 and Pandemic-Related Stress on the Mental and Physical Health of Women Veterans. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:724-733. [PMID: 36042090 PMCID: PMC9427167 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07589-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about women veterans' intimate partner violence (IPV) experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic or the impacts of pandemic-related stress on their mental and physical health. OBJECTIVES To identify IPV experiences among women veterans prior to and during the pandemic, pandemic-related stressors, and examine their respective contributions to mental and physical health. DESIGN National sample of women veterans drawn from a larger web-based longitudinal study. Relationships between recent IPV and pandemic-related stressors were tested with linear regressions, controlling for pre-pandemic IPV and mental and physical health symptoms, demographic, and military-related covariates. PARTICIPANTS One hundred forty-two women veterans (Mage=58.8 years). MAIN MEASURES We assessed IPV (CTS-2), PTSD (PCL-5), depression (CESD), anxiety (DASS-A), physical health (PHQ-15), and physical health-related quality of life (SF-12) prior to the pandemic (June 2016-December 2016/January 2017) and during the pandemic study period (March 2020-December 2020/January 2021). We assessed pandemic-related stressors (EPII) during the pandemic study period. KEY RESULTS Over a third (38.7%) of participants experienced IPV during the pandemic study period (psychological: 35.9%, physical: 9.9%, sexual: 4.2%). Overall rates, frequency, and severity of IPV experience did not significantly differ between the pre-pandemic and pandemic study periods. Few participants tested positive for COVID-19 (4.2%); however, most participants reported experiencing pandemic-related stressors across life domains (e.g., social activities: 88%, physical health: 80.3%, emotional health: 68.3%). IPV during the pandemic and pandemic-related stressors were both associated with greater PTSD and depressive symptoms. Pandemic-related stressors were associated with worse anxiety and physical health symptoms. Neither IPV during the pandemic nor pandemic-related stressors were associated with physical health-related quality of life. CONCLUSIONS IPV experiences during the pandemic were common among women veterans, as were pandemic-related stressors. Although IPV did not increase in the context of COVID-19, IPV experiences during the pandemic and pandemic-related stressors were linked with poorer mental and physical health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Iverson
- Women's Health Sciences Division of the National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| | | | - Sean Cowlishaw
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Danielle R Shayani
- Women's Health Sciences Division of the National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Melissa E Dichter
- VA Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- School of Social Work, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Karen S Mitchell
- Women's Health Sciences Division of the National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Megan R Gerber
- Division of General Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
- Albany Stratton VA Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Galina R Portnoy
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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17
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Mattocks KM, Kroll-Desrosiers A, Moore Simas TA, Bastian LA, Marteeny V, Walker L, Sheahan K, Elwy AR. Examining Pregnant Veterans' Acceptance and Beliefs Regarding the COVID-19 Vaccine. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:671-678. [PMID: 36042080 PMCID: PMC9427157 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07588-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant persons have received mixed messages regarding whether or not to receive COVID-19 vaccines as limited data are available regarding vaccine safety for pregnant and lactating persons and breastfeeding infants. OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to examine pregnant Veteran's acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines, along with perceptions and beliefs regarding vaccine safety and vaccine conspiracy beliefs. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS We conducted a cross-sectional survey of pregnant Veterans enrolled in VA care who were taking part in an ongoing cohort study at 15 VA medical centers between January and May 2021. MAIN MEASURES Pregnant Veterans were asked whether they had been offered the COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy, and whether they chose to accept or refuse it. Additional questions focused on perceptions of COVID-19 vaccine safety and endorsements of vaccine knowledge and conspiracy beliefs. Logistic regression was utilized to examine predictors of acceptance of a vaccine during pregnancy. KEY RESULTS Overall, 72 pregnant Veterans were offered a COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy; over two-thirds (69%) opted not to receive a vaccine. Reasons for not receiving a vaccine included potential effects on the baby (64%), side effects for oneself (30%), and immunity from a past COVID-19 infection (12%). Those who received a vaccine had significantly greater vaccine knowledge and less belief in vaccine conspiracy theories. Greater knowledge of vaccines in general (aOR: 1.78; 95% CI: 1.2-2.6) and lower beliefs in vaccine conspiracies (aOR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.6-0.9) were the strongest predictors of acceptance of a COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides important insights regarding pregnant Veterans' decisions to accept the COVID-19 vaccine, and reasons why they may choose not to accept the vaccine. Given the high endorsement of vaccine conspiracy beliefs, trusted healthcare providers should have ongoing, open discussions about vaccine conspiracy beliefs and provide additional information to dispel these beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Birch Building, Room 112, 421 North Main Street, Leeds, MA, 01053, USA. .,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| | - Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Birch Building, Room 112, 421 North Main Street, Leeds, MA, 01053, USA.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | | | - Lori A Bastian
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Valerie Marteeny
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Birch Building, Room 112, 421 North Main Street, Leeds, MA, 01053, USA
| | - Lorrie Walker
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Birch Building, Room 112, 421 North Main Street, Leeds, MA, 01053, USA
| | | | - A Rani Elwy
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, MA, USA
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18
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Mattocks KM, Moore DT, Wischik DL, Lazar CM, Rosen MI. Understanding opportunities and challenges with telemedicine-delivered buprenorphine during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Subst Abuse Treat 2022; 139:108777. [PMID: 35346533 PMCID: PMC8949846 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2022.108777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a debilitating illness that remains a serious public health issue in the United States. Use of telemedicine to deliver medications for the treatment of OUD (MOUD) was limited until the confluence of the COVID-19 and opioid addiction epidemics in spring 2020. Starting in spring 2020, the Department of Veterans Health Affairs (VHA) transitioned from in-person to mostly telemedicine-delivered OUD care to reduce COVID-19 transmission among veterans and providers. To gain a nuanced understanding of provider perspectives on MOUD care delivery using telemedicine, we conducted semi-structured interviews with VHA providers who were using telehealth to deliver MOUD care. METHODS We conducted semi-structed Zoom interviews with VA clinicians at nine VA Medical Centers (VAMCs) in eight states. Potential study participants were identified as providers who were involved in referrals and provision of buprenorphine treatment for chronic pain and opioid addiction. Audio-recordings of all interviews were transcribed and entered into Atlas. Ti qualitative analysis software. The study team analyzed the transcripts for major themes related to tele-prescribing practices for buprenorphine. RESULTS Twenty-three VA providers participated in the study, representing 32% of all providers invited to participate in the study. The research team identified the following four themes: (1) COVID-19 spurred a seismic shift in OUD treatment; (2) Video calls provided a rare window into veterans' lives; (3) Providers experienced numerous challenges to virtual visits; and (4) Providers wrestled with paternalism and trust. CONCLUSIONS The pandemic accelerated the movement toward harm reduction approaches. Prior to the pandemic, stringent requirements existed for patients receiving MOUD care. Providers in this study reflected on the need for these requirements (e.g., in-person visits, toxicology screens) and how reducing this monitoring implied more trust in patients' autonomous decisions. Providers' observation that videoconferencing offered them a window into patients' lives may offer some ways to improve rapport, and research should explore how best to incorporate the additional information conveyed in virtual visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, United States of America; University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America.
| | - David T Moore
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Dora Lendvai Wischik
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States of America; Yale University School of Nursing, New Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Christina M Lazar
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States of America
| | - Marc I Rosen
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States of America; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States of America
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Uzdavines A, Helmer DA, Spelman JF, Mattocks KM, Johnson AM, Chardos JF, Lynch KE, Kauth MR. Sexual Health Assessment Is Vital to Whole Health Models of Care. JMIRx Med 2022; 3:e36266. [PMID: 37725523 PMCID: PMC10414374 DOI: 10.2196/36266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Sexual health is the state of well-being regarding sexuality. Sexual health is highly valued and associated with overall health. Overall health and well-being are more than the absence of disease or dysfunction. Health care systems adopting whole health models of care need to incorporate a holistic assessment of sexual health. This includes assessing patients' sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI). If health systems, including but not limited to the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), incorporate sexual health into whole health they could enhance preventive care, promote healthy sexual functioning, and optimize overall health and well-being. Assessing sexual health can give providers important information about a patient's health, well-being, and health goals. Sexual concerns or dysfunction may also signal undiagnosed health conditions. Additionally, collecting SOGI information as part of a sexual health assessment would allow providers to address problems that drive disparities for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and similar minority (LGBTQ+) populations. Health care providers do not routinely assess sexual health in clinical practice. One barrier is a gap in communication between patients and providers. Providers cite beliefs that patients will bring up sexual concerns themselves or might be offended by discussing sexual health. Patients often report an expectation that providers will bring up sexual health and being comfortable discussing sexual health with their providers. Within the VHA, the lack of a sexual health template within the electronic health record (EHR) adds an additional barrier. The VHA's transition toward whole health and updates to its EHR provide unique opportunities to integrate sexual health assessment into routine care. We highlight system modifications to address this within the VHA. These examples may be helpful for other health care systems interested in moving toward whole health. It will be vital for health care systems integrating a whole health approach to develop both practical and educational interventions to address the communication gap. These interventions will need to target both providers and patients in health care systems that transition to a whole health model of care, not just the VHA. Both the communication gap between providers and patients, and the lack of support within some EHR systems for sexual health assessment are barriers to assessing sexual health in primary care clinics. Routine sexual health assessment would benefit patient well-being and present an opportunity to address health disparities for LGBTQ+ populations. Health care systems (ie, both the VHA and other systems) can overcome these barriers by implementing educational interventions and updating their EHRs and back-end data structures. VHA's expertise in developing and implementing health education interventions and EHR-based quality improvements may help inform interventions beyond VHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Uzdavines
- South Central Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Drew A Helmer
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness, and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Juliette F Spelman
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, United States
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | | | - John F Chardos
- VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Kristine E Lynch
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Michael R Kauth
- South Central Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States
- LGBTQ+ Health Program, Patient Care Services, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC, United States
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20
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Lumsden RH, Goldstein KM, Shephard-Banigan M, Kroll-Desrosiers A, Bean-Mayberry B, Farmer MM, Mattocks KM. Racial Differences in Nontraditional Risk Factors Associated with Cardiovascular Conditions in Pregnancy Among U.S. Women Veterans. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2022; 31:706-714. [PMID: 35072546 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2021.0078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pregnancy-related cardiovascular (CV) conditions are important predictors of future cardiovascular disease (CVD). Nontraditional factors, such as depression and chronic stress, have been associated with CVD, but their role in pregnancy-related CVD conditions (pCVD) remains unknown. To determine the association between nontraditional factors and CV conditions in pregnancy, and to explore if this risk varies by race. Methods: Using data from a prospective study of pregnant women within the veterans affairs health system (COMFORT study), we described the prevalence of nontraditional factors (e.g., depression, post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD], chronic stress) and used logistic regression to determine the association between nontraditional factors and pregnancy-related CV conditions (pre-eclampsia/eclampsia, gestational hypertension, gestation diabetes, or preterm delivery). Analyses were then stratified by race. Results: Among 706 enrollees, 26% had pregnancy-related CV conditions. These women had significantly higher rates of depression (62% vs. 45%, p < 0.01), anxiety (50% vs. 37%, p = 0.01), PTSD (44% vs. 29%, p < 0.01), and high stress levels before pregnancy (22% vs. 16%, p = 0.05) compared with women with normal pregnancies. Overall, these factors were not associated with increased adjusted odds of pCVD. Overall, Black women had disproportionately higher rates of prepregnancy hypertension compared with White women (22% vs. 6%, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Women Veterans with pCVD are a high-risk group for future CVD, with disproportionately high rates of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic stress. Racial disparities exist in pregnancy-related CV risk factors, which may further compound existing racial disparities in CVD among women Veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca H Lumsden
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Karen M Goldstein
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Durham Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham VA healthcare system, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Megan Shephard-Banigan
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy, Duke University Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bevanne Bean-Mayberry
- VA Greater Los Angeles Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation and Policy (CSHIIP), Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Melissa M Farmer
- VA Greater Los Angeles Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation and Policy (CSHIIP), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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21
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Houston TK, Chen J, Amante DJ, Blok AC, Nagawa CS, Wijesundara JG, Kamberi A, Allison JJ, Person SD, Flahive J, Morley J, Conigliaro J, Mattocks KM, Garber L, Sadasivam RS. Effect of Technology-Assisted Brief Abstinence Game on Long-term Smoking Cessation in Individuals Not Yet Ready to Quit: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Intern Med 2022; 182:303-312. [PMID: 35072714 PMCID: PMC8787683 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2021.7866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Most trials of behavioral or pharmaceutical interventions for people who smoke are limited to individuals reporting they are ready to quit smoking. Engaging individuals who initially report they are not yet ready to quit in brief, precessation, skills-building interventions (eg, practice quit attempts or nicotine replacement therapy [NRT] sampling) is challenging. OBJECTIVE To test an integrated behavioral plus NRT-sampling intervention using a gamification approach supported by mobile health. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A multisite randomized clinical trial with site-level 1-to-1 allocation into 2 conditions was conducted in 4 US health care systems. A total of 433 individuals who were currently smoking and reported at enrollment that they were not ready to quit smoking were enrolled. The study was conducted from November 7, 2016, to July 31, 2020. INTERVENTIONS Take a Break (TAB) was a 3-week game experience and included 5 behavioral components (motivational messaging, challenge quizzes, brief abstinence goal setting, mobile health apps for cravings management, and reward points for participation) integrated with NRT sampling. TAB draws on social cognitive theory and game mechanics concepts to engage participants in health behavior change. The comparison included NRT sampling only. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Time to first quit attempt (duration from TAB experience to primary outcome) and carbon monoxide level-verified smoking cessation at 6-month follow-up. All analyses used an intention-to-treat approach. RESULTS Of the 433 individuals included in the trial, 223 were women (52%); mean (SD) age was 54 (13) years. More than half (53% [112 of 213]) of the TAB participants completed 100% of the daily challenge quizzes in the first week, 73% (145 of 199) of participants who completed the goal-setting call set a brief abstinence goal (most frequently 1-2 days of abstinence from cigarettes), and 75% (159 of 213) of participants used the mobile health apps to manage nicotine cravings. Time to the first quit attempt was lower for the TAB vs comparison group (hazard ratio, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.09-2.60; P = .02). At the 6-month follow-up, 18% (28 of 160) of TAB participants and 10% (17 of 171) of the comparison (χ2 test, P = .045) participants obtained carbon monoxide level-verified smoking cessation (accounting for clustering of outcomes by site; odds ratio, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.01-3.68; P = .048). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The findings of this randomized clinical trial demonstrate that individuals not yet ready to quit smoking could be engaged in a brief abstinence game. Six months later, the TAB group had nearly double the rate of smoking cessation vs the NRT sampling comparison group. Integrating a skills-building game experience with brief NRT sampling can enhance long-term cessation among those not yet ready to quit smoking. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02973425.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas K Houston
- General Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Jinying Chen
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Daniel J Amante
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Amanda C Blok
- Veterans Affairs (VA) Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Catherine S Nagawa
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Jessica G Wijesundara
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Ariana Kamberi
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Jeroan J Allison
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Sharina D Person
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Julie Flahive
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Jeanne Morley
- General Internal Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York
| | - Joseph Conigliaro
- General Internal Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Research and Education, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts
| | | | - Rajani S Sadasivam
- Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
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22
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Higgins DM, Han L, Kerns RD, Driscoll MA, Heapy AA, Skanderson M, Lisi AJ, Mattocks KM, Brandt C, Haskell SG. Risk factors associated with healthcare utilization for spine pain. Pain Med 2022; 23:1423-1433. [PMID: 34999899 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnab351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined potential risk factors associated with healthcare utilization among patients with spine (i.e., neck and back) pain. METHODS A two-stage sampling approach examined spine pain episodes of care among veterans with a yearly outpatient visit for six consecutive years. Descriptive and bivariate statistics, followed by logistic regression analyses, examined baseline characteristics of veterans with new episodes of care who either continued or discontinued spine pain care. A multivariable logistic regression model examined correlates associated with seeking continued spine pain care. RESULTS Among 331,908 veterans without spine pain episodes of care during the two-year baseline observation period, 16.5% (n = 54,852) had a new episode of care during the following two-year observation period. Of those 54,852 veterans, 37,025 had an outpatient visit data during the final two-year follow-up period, with 53.7% (n = 19,865) evidencing continued spine pain care. Those with continued care were more likely to be overweight or obese, non-smokers, Army veterans, have higher education, and had higher rates of diagnoses of all medical and mental health conditions examined at baseline. Among several important findings, women had 13% lower odds of continued care during the final two-year observation period, OR 0.87 (0.81, 0.95). CONCLUSIONS A number of important demographics and clinical correlates were associated with increased likelihood of seeking new and continued episodes of care for spine pain; however, further examination of risk factors associated with healthcare utilization for spine pain is indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M Higgins
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts.,Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ling Han
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Robert D Kerns
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Mary A Driscoll
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Alicia A Heapy
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Anthony J Lisi
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Cynthia Brandt
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Sally G Haskell
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
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23
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Holzhauer CG, Kroll-Desrosiers A, Kinney RL, Copeland LA, Bastian LA, Mattocks KM. Prenatal Stress Exposure and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Associated With Risk of Postpartum Alcohol Misuse Among Women Veterans. Womens Health Issues 2021; 31:596-602. [PMID: 34148828 PMCID: PMC10500562 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Maternal alcohol misuse during the postpartum period is associated with negative maternal and infant outcomes. This study examined whether greater stress exposure in the year before the baby's birth and maternal post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were associated with postpartum alcohol misuse among a sample of women veterans. Maternal PTSD was also examined as a moderator of the association between stress exposure and postpartum alcohol misuse. METHODS Data were drawn from the Center for Maternal and Infant Outcomes Research in Translation study, a multisite prospective cohort study of pregnant and postpartum women veterans. Interviews were conducted within 12 weeks after birth. At this post-birth interview, women reported whether they experienced stressful events (e.g., loss of job, military deployment, separation/divorce) in the year before birth. PTSD diagnosis and postpartum scores on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT-C) were derived from the Department of Veterans Affairs medical records. RESULTS Models testing main and interaction effects showed a statistically significant association of both PTSD (p = .02) and stress exposure (p = .04), as well as significant interaction of PTSD and stress exposure (p = .03) with AUDIT-C scores postpartum, after controlling for marital status, age, and race. Specifically, compared with women without PTSD, those with PTSD had higher overall AUDIT-C scores postpartum, regardless of stress exposure. For women without PTSD, more stress exposure before birth was associated with higher AUDIT-C scores during the postpartum phase. CONCLUSIONS PTSD diagnosis and life stressors before infant birth predicted maternal alcohol misuse during the postpartum period. Identifying such risk factors is an initial step in preventing alcohol misuse, with the goal of enhancing postpartum health for the birthing parent and infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathryn Glanton Holzhauer
- Division of Research & Education, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry & Division of Addiction, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts.
| | - Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- Division of Research & Education, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Rebecca L Kinney
- Division of Research & Education, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts
| | - Laurel A Copeland
- Division of Research & Education, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Lori A Bastian
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Department of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Division of Research & Education, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry & Division of Addiction, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
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24
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Kinney RL, Haskell S, Relyea MR, DeRycke EC, Walker L, Bastian LA, Mattocks KM. Coordinating women's preventive health care for rural veterans. J Rural Health 2021; 38:630-638. [PMID: 34310743 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE As the number of women veterans receiving care from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) continues to increase, so does the need to access gender-specific preventive health care services through the VHA. In rural areas, women veterans are the numeric minority, so many preventive screenings are performed outside of the VA by community providers. As the numbers of veterans utilizing both VHA and non-VHA providers for their preventive care continue to increase, so does the need to coordinate this care. This research examines the role of the Women Veterans' Care Coordinator (WVCC) at rural facilities and their perceptions of coordinating preventive care. METHODS Between March and July 2019, semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with WVCCs at 26 rural VA facilities. Each interview was digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were loaded into Atlas.ti for further analysis. Once the codes were refined, the investigators coded the 26 interviews independently and conferred to achieve consensus on the underlying themes. FINDINGS Five themes arose from the WVCC interviews: (1) Rural women veterans have varying needs of coordination; (2) Fragmented communication between the VA and non-VA care settings hinders effective coordination; (3) Difficulties in prioritizing rural care coordination; (4) Care coordination impacts patient care; and (5) WVCC recommendations to improve rural care coordination. CONCLUSIONS The recent addition of WVCCs to rural facilities has expanded the VA's reach to veterans living in the most rural areas. As a result, many of these women are now receiving timely, quality, and coordinated health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Kinney
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sally Haskell
- VA CT Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA.,Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Mark R Relyea
- VA CT Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA.,Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Eric C DeRycke
- VA CT Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA.,Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Lorrie Walker
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lori A Bastian
- VA CT Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA.,Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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25
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Gaffey AE, Burg MM, Rosman L, Portnoy GA, Brandt CA, Cavanagh CE, Skanderson M, Dziura J, Mattocks KM, Bastian LA, Haskell SG. Baseline Characteristics from the Women Veterans Cohort Study: Gender Differences and Similarities in Health and Healthcare Utilization. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2021; 30:944-955. [PMID: 33439756 PMCID: PMC8290312 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2020.8732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: With the unprecedented expansion of women's roles in the U.S. military during recent (post-9/11) conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the number of women seeking healthcare through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has increased substantially. Women Veterans often present as medically complex due to multiple medical, mental health, and psychosocial comorbidities, and consequently may be underserved. Thus, we conducted the nationwide Women Veterans Cohort Study (WVCS) to examine post-9/11 Veterans' unique healthcare needs and to identify potential disparities in health outcomes and care. Methods: We present baseline data from a comprehensive questionnaire battery that was administered from 2016 to 2019 to a national sample of post-9/11 men and women Veterans who enrolled in Veterans Affairs care (WVCS2). Data were analyzed for descriptives and to compare characteristics by gender, including demographics; health risk factors and symptoms of cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, and mental health; healthcare utilization, access, and insurance. Results: WVCS2 included 1,141 Veterans (51% women). Women were younger, more diverse, and with higher educational attainment than men. Women also endorsed lower traditional cardiovascular risk factors and comorbidities (e.g., weight, hypertension) and greater nontraditional cardiovascular risk factors (e.g., trauma, psychological symptoms). More women reported single-site pain (e.g., neck, stomach, pelvic) and multisite pain, but did not differ from men in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms or treatment for PTSD. Women seek care at VHA medical centers more frequently, often combined with outside health services, but do not significantly differ from men in their insurance coverage. Conclusion: Overall, this investigation indicates substantial variation in risk factors, health outcomes, and healthcare utilization among post-9/11 men and women Veterans. Further research is needed to determine best practices for managing women Veterans in the VHA healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison E. Gaffey
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine (Cardiovascular Medicine), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Matthew M. Burg
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine (Cardiovascular Medicine), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Lindsey Rosman
- Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Galina A. Portnoy
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Cynthia A. Brandt
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Casey E. Cavanagh
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | | | - James Dziura
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Kristin M. Mattocks
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Research and Development, VA Central Western Massachusetts and Department of Quantitative Health Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lori A. Bastian
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine (General), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sally G. Haskell
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center of Innovation, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine (General), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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26
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Mengeling MA, Mattocks KM, Hynes DM, Vanneman ME, Matthews KL, Rosen AK. Partnership Forum: The Role of Research in the Transformation of Veterans Affairs Community Care. Med Care 2021; 59:S232-S241. [PMID: 33976072 PMCID: PMC8132916 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle A. Mengeling
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE) and VA Office of Rural Health (ORH), Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Health Care System
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA
| | - Kristin M. Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Denise M. Hynes
- Center to Improve Veterans Involvement in Care (CIVIC) and Evidence Synthesis Program, Portland VA Healthcare System, Portland
- Health Management and Policy, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, and Health Data and Informatics, Center for Genome Research and Biocomputing, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR
| | - Megan E. Vanneman
- Informatics, Decision-Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Division of Health System Innovation and Research, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Kameron L. Matthews
- Office of Community Care, Veterans Health Administration, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC
| | - Amy K. Rosen
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Boston Healthcare System
- Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
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27
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Mattocks KM, Kroll-Desrosiers A, Kinney R, Elwy AR, Cunningham KJ, Mengeling MA. Understanding VA's Use of and Relationships With Community Care Providers Under the MISSION Act. Med Care 2021; 59:S252-S258. [PMID: 33976074 PMCID: PMC8132889 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congress has enacted 2 major pieces of legislation to improve access to care for Veterans within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). As a result, the VA has undergone a major transformation in the way that care is delivered to Veterans with an increased reliance on community-based provider networks. No studies have examined the relationship between VA and contracted community providers. This study examines VA facility directors' perspectives on their successes and challenges building relationships with community providers within the VA Community Care Network (CCN). OBJECTIVES To understand who VA facilities partner with for community care, highlight areas of greatest need for partnerships in various regions, and identify challenges of working with community providers in the new CCN contract. RESEARCH DESIGN We conducted a national survey with VA facility directors to explore needs, challenges, and expectations with the CCN. RESULTS The most common care referred to community providers included physical therapy, chiropractic, orthopedic, ophthalmology, and acupuncture. Open-ended responses focused on 3 topics: (1) Challenges in working with community providers, (2) Strategies to maintain strong relationships with community providers, and (3) Re-engagement with community providers who no longer provide care for Veterans. CONCLUSIONS VA faces challenges engaging with community providers given problems with timely reimbursement of community providers, low (Medicare) reimbursement rates, and confusing VA rules related to prior authorizations and bundled services. It will be critical to identify strategies to successfully initiate and sustain relationships with community providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M. Mattocks
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds
| | - Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds
| | - Rebecca Kinney
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds
| | - Anashua R. Elwy
- Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI
| | | | - Michelle A. Mengeling
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE) and Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Health Care System
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA
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Mattocks KM, Elwy AR, Yano EM, Giovannelli J, Adelberg M, Mengeling MA, Cunningham KJ, Matthews KL. Developing network adequacy standards for VA Community Care. Health Serv Res 2021; 56:400-408. [PMID: 33782979 PMCID: PMC8143680 DOI: 10.1111/1475-6773.13651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To inform how the VA should develop and implement network adequacy standards, we convened an expert panel to discuss Community Care Network (CCN) adequacy and how VA might implement network adequacy standards for community care. DATA SOURCES/STUDY SETTING Data were generated from expert panel ratings and from an audio-recorded expert panel meeting conducted in Arlington, Virginia, in October 2017. STUDY DESIGN We used a modified Delphi panel process involving one round of expert panel ratings provided by nine experts in network adequacy standards. Expert panel members received a list of network adequacy standard measures used in commercial and government market and were provided a rating form listing a total of 11 measures and characteristics to rate. DATA COLLECTION METHODS Items on the rating form were individually discussed during an expert panel meeting between the nine expert panel members and VA Office of Community Care leaders. Attendees addressed discordant views and generated revised or new standards accordingly. Recorded audio data were transcribed to facilitate thematic analysis regarding opportunities and challenges with implementing network adequacy standards in VA Community Care. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The five highest ranked standards were network directories for Veterans, regular reporting of network adequacy data to VA, maximum wait time/distance standards, minimum ratio of providers to enrolled population, and qualitative assessments of network adequacy. During the expert panel discussion with VA Community Care leaders, opportunities and challenges implementing network adequacy standards were highlighted. CONCLUSIONS Our expert panel shed light on priorities for network adequacy to be implemented under CCN contracts, such as developing comprehensive provider directories for Veterans to use when selecting community providers. Remaining questions focus on whether the VA could reasonably develop and implement network adequacy standards given current Congressional restraints on VA reimbursement to community providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M. Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare SystemLeedsMassachusettsUSA
- University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterMassachusettsUSA
| | - A. Rani Elwy
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation ResearchEdith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans HospitalBedfordMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human BehaviorAlpert Medical SchoolBrown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Elizabeth M. Yano
- VA Los Angeles HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation and PolicyVA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare SystemSepulvedaCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Health Policy and ManagementUCLA Fielding School of Public HealthLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Justin Giovannelli
- Georgetown University Health Policy InstituteWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | | | - Michelle A. Mengeling
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE) and VA Office of Rural Health (ORH)Veterans Rural Health Resource Center‐Iowa City (VRHRC‐IC)Iowa City VA Health Care SystemIowa CityIowaUSA
- Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of Iowa Carver College of MedicineIowa CityIowaUSA
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M. Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | | | - Clinton Greenstone
- VHA Office of Community Care, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - David Atkins
- Health Services Research and Development, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC
| | - Amy K. Rosen
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation research, VA Boston and Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Mark Upton
- VHA Office of Community Care, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC
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Kroll-Desrosiers A, Holzhauer CG, Russo L, DeRycke EC, Kinney RL, Bastian LA, Mattocks KM. Factors Associated With Quitting Smoking During Pregnancy Among Women Veterans. Womens Health Issues 2021; 31:408-413. [PMID: 34049763 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Little is known about the rates of smoking among pregnant veterans. Our objective was to examine rates of smoking during pregnancy and factors associated with quitting smoking during pregnancy. METHODS We used data from a cohort study of pregnant veterans from 15 Veterans Health Administration facilities nationwide. Veterans who reported smoking during pregnancy were included in this analysis. Poisson regression models were used to estimate the relative risk (RR) of quitting smoking during pregnancy. RESULTS Overall, 133 veterans reported smoking during pregnancy. Among this group of women who smoked, the average age was 31.6 years, 20% were Black, and 14% were Hispanic/Latino. More than one-half of women (65%) who reported smoking at the start of pregnancy quit smoking during pregnancy. Multivariable models, adjusted for history of deployment and age, indicated that prenatal care initiation at 12 or fewer weeks compared with more than 13 weeks (relative risk [RR], 2.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18-3.58), living without household smokers compared with any household smokers (RR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.14-2.17), and first pregnancy (RR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.17-1.95) were significant predictors of quitting versus persistent smoking during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Women veterans who quit smoking may be different than those who continue to smoke during pregnancy. Establishing prenatal care early in pregnancy, which likely includes counseling about smoking cessation, seems to be an important factor in quitting. Those for whom it is not a first pregnancy and who live with other smokers may especially benefit from such counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- Research and Development, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; Department of Population & Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts.
| | - Cathryn Glanton Holzhauer
- Research and Development, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Lindsey Russo
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Eric C DeRycke
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Rebecca L Kinney
- Research and Development, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts
| | - Lori A Bastian
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Department of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Research and Development, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; Department of Population & Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
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Faro JM, Mattocks KM, Mourao D, Nagawa CS, Lemon SC, Wang B, Cutrona SL, Sadasivam RS. Experiences and perceptions of referrals to a community-based physical activity program for cancer survivors: a qualitative exploration. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:358. [PMID: 33865384 PMCID: PMC8052851 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06365-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity rates in cancer survivors continue to be low despite the known benefits and availability of evidence-based programs. LIVESTRONG at the Y is a national community-based physical activity program offered cost-free to cancer survivors, though is underutilized. We explored perceptions and experiences of staff and participating survivors to better understand program awareness, referrals and participation. METHODS LIVESTRONG at the Y program staff [directors (n = 16), instructors (n = 4)] and survivors (n = 8) from 8 United States YMCAs took part in 30-min semi-structured phone interviews between March-May 2019. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed, and evaluated using a thematic analysis approach. RESULTS Program staff themes included: 1) Program awareness should be further developed for both the general public and medical providers; 2) Strong relationships with medical providers increased program referrals; 3) Electronic referral systems between providers and LIVESTRONG would help to streamline the referral process; and 4) Bi-directional communication between program staff and medical providers is key to providing patient progress updates. Survivor themes included: 1) Survivors trust their medical team and the information they provide about physical activity; 2) Providers need to incorporate an action plan and referrals for survivors to be active once treatments are completed; and 3) Personal experiences of those who participated in LIVESTRONG resonate with survivors and increase participation. CONCLUSIONS LIVESTRONG staff reported the need for an integrated electronic referral system and bi-directional communication with providers about participant progress. Survivors want physical activity education, electronic referrals and follow-up from their healthcare team, coupled with peer support from other survivors. Cancer care provider knowledge and electronic referrals during and after treatment may expedite and increase participation in this community-based program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie M Faro
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 0160, USA.
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 0160, USA
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
| | - Dalton Mourao
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 0160, USA
| | - Catherine S Nagawa
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 0160, USA
| | - Stephenie C Lemon
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 0160, USA
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 0160, USA
| | - Sarah L Cutrona
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 0160, USA
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Rajani S Sadasivam
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 0160, USA
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Faro JM, Mattocks KM, Nagawa CS, Lemon SC, Wang B, Cutrona SL, Sadasivam RS. Physical Activity, Mental Health, and Technology Preferences to Support Cancer Survivors During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-sectional Study. JMIR Cancer 2021; 7:e25317. [PMID: 33471776 PMCID: PMC7860926 DOI: 10.2196/25317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 has had significant health-related and behavioral impacts worldwide. Cancer survivors (hereafter referred to as "survivors") are particularly prone to behavioral changes and are encouraged to be more vigilant and observe stricter social distancing measures. OBJECTIVE We explored (1) changes in physical activity and sedentary behaviors since the onset of COVID-19, along with changes in mental health status, and (2) alternative strategies to support survivors' physical activity and social health during and after COVID-19, along with the role of digital health in such strategies. METHODS A questionnaire was distributed among survivors participating (currently or previously) in the community-based physical activity program LIVESTRONG at the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA), from 3 sites outside an urban area in Massachusetts. Questions addressed pre-COVID-19 vs current changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior. Anxiety and depression were assessed using the 2-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-2) and 2-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2), and scores ≥3 indicated a clinical diagnosis of anxiety or depression, respectively. Digital health preferences were assessed through closed-ended questions. Open-ended responses addressing other preferences for physical activity programs and social support were analyzed, coded, and categorized into themes. RESULTS Among 61 participants (mean age 62 [SD 10.4] years; females: 51/61 [83.6%]), 67.2% (n=41) reported decreased physical activity and 67.2% (n=41) reported prolonged sitting times since the onset of COVID-19. Further, 24.6% (n=15) and 26.2% (n=16) met the GAD-2 and PHQ-2 criteria for clinical anxiety and depression, respectively. All participants owned a cellphone; 90% (n=54) owned a smartphone. Preferences for physical activity programs (n=28) included three themes: (1) use of digital or remote platforms (Zoom, other online platforms, and video platforms), (2) specific activities and locations (eg, outdoor activities, walking, gardening, biking, and physical activities at the YMCA and at senior centers), and (3) importance of social support regardless of activity type (eg, time spent with family, friends, peers, or coaches). The survey revealed a mean score of 71.8 (SD 21.4; scale 0-100) for the importance of social support during physical activity programs. Social support preferences (n=15) revealed three themes: (1) support through remote platforms (eg, texting, Zoom, phone calls, emails, and Facebook), (2) tangible in-person support (YMCA and senior centers), and (3) social support with no specific platform (eg, small gatherings and family or friend visits). CONCLUSIONS Physical activity and mental health are critical factors for the quality of life of survivors, and interventions tailored to their activity preferences are necessary. Digital or remote physical activity programs with added social support may help address the ongoing needs of survivors during and after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie M Faro
- Division of Health Informatics and Implementation Science, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Division of Health Informatics and Implementation Science, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Northampton, MA, United States
| | - Catherine S Nagawa
- Division of Health Informatics and Implementation Science, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Stephenie C Lemon
- Division of Preventive Behavioral Medicine, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Bo Wang
- Biostatistics and Health Services Research, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Sarah L Cutrona
- Division of Health Informatics and Implementation Science, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, United States
| | - Rajani S Sadasivam
- Division of Health Informatics and Implementation Science, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
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Mattocks KM, Kroll-Desrosiers A, Kinney R, Bastian LA, Bean-Mayberry B, Goldstein KM, Shivakumar G, Copeland L. Racial Differences in the Cesarean Section Rates Among Women Veterans Using Department of Veterans Affairs Community Care. Med Care 2021; 59:131-138. [PMID: 33201084 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Racial disparities in maternal morbidity and mortality remain a pressing public health problem. Variations in cesarean section (C-section) rates among racial and ethnic groups have been well documented, though reasons for these variations remain unknown. In the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), nearly half of all women Veterans are of reproductive age and >40% of these women are racial and ethnic minorities. Because the VA does not provide obstetrical services, all obstetrical care is provided by community obstetrical providers under the auspices of the VA Community Care Network. However, little is known regarding the rates and correlates of C-sections among women Veterans receiving community obstetrical care. OBJECTIVE To examine predictors of C-section deliveries among a cohort of racially diverse pregnant Veterans enrolled in VA care at 15 VA medical facilities nationwide. RESEARCH DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of a longitudinal, prospective, multisite, observational cohort study of pregnant, and postpartum Veterans receiving community-based obstetrical care. RESULTS Overall, 659 Veterans delivered babies during the study period, and 35% of the deliveries were C-sections. Predictors of C-section receipt included being a woman of color [adjusted odds ratio (AOR), 1.76; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.19-2.60], having an Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score ≥10 (AOR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.11-2.65), having a higher body mass indexes (AOR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.04-1.11), and women who were older (AOR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.03-1.13). There was a substantial racial variation in C-section rates across our 15 study sites, with C-section rates meeting or exceeding 50% for WOC in 8 study sites. CONCLUSIONS There is substantial racial and geographic variation in C-section rates among pregnant Veterans receiving obstetrical care through VA community care providers. Future research should carefully examine variations in C-sections by the hospital, and which providers and hospitals are included in VA contracts. There should also be an increased focus on the types of providers women Veterans have access to for obstetrical care paid for by the VA and the quality of care delivered by those providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Mattocks
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA
| | - Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA
| | - Rebecca Kinney
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA
| | - Lori A Bastian
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Bevanne Bean-Mayberry
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, VA HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation and Policy (CSHIIP)
- Department of Medicine, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Karen M Goldstein
- Durham VA Health Care System-Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Geetha Shivakumar
- Mental Health, VA North Texas Health Care System
- Department of Psychiatry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Laurel Copeland
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA
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Grekin R, Zivin K, Hall SV, Van T, Mattocks KM. Predictors of Veterans Affairs Health Service Utilization by Women Veterans during Pregnancy. Womens Health Issues 2020; 30:292-298. [PMID: 32417074 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2020.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Researchers have examined predictors of Veterans Affairs (VA) service use by women veterans in general, but less is known about predictors of VA service use by pregnant veterans. This study examined characteristics associated with planned and actual VA service use by pregnant veterans. METHODS This study includes data from 510 pregnant veterans enrolled in the Center for Maternal and Infant Outcomes Research in Translation Study. Women veterans completed phone interviews during their first trimester and at 3 months postpartum. The Center for Maternal and Infant Outcomes Research in Translation surveys assessed medical and mental health conditions, VA health care use, trauma history, and pregnancy complications. We conducted bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models assessing planned and actual use of VA services during pregnancy. RESULTS Lifetime post-traumatic stress disorder (odds ratio [OR], 1.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.11-2.69) and history of military sexual trauma (OR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.19-2.87) were significantly associated with planned VA service use in multivariable models. Lifetime diagnoses of anxiety (OR, 1.78; C.I., 1.15-2.75) were associated with an increased likelihood of actual VA use during pregnancy, whereas Hispanic ethnicity (OR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.36-0.96), younger age (OR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.91-0.99), and access to private health insurance (OR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.37-0.84) were associated with a decreased likelihood of actual VA service use during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Results emphasize the association between high-risk mental health characteristics and specific demographic characteristics with VA service use among pregnant veterans. Study findings highlight a continued need for women's health care at the VA, as well as the availability of VA providers knowledgeable about perinatal health issues, and informed community providers regarding women veterans' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Grekin
- Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
| | - Kara Zivin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Department of Veterans Affairs, Center for Clinical Management Research, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Stephanie V Hall
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Department of Veterans Affairs, Center for Clinical Management Research, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Department of Learning Health Sciences, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Tony Van
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Center for Clinical Management Research, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts; Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
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Kroll-Desrosiers AR, Crawford SL, Moore Simas TA, Clark MA, Mattocks KM. Treatment and Management of Depression Symptoms in Pregnant Veterans: Varying Experiences of Mental Health Care in the Prenatal Period. Psychiatr Q 2020; 91:475-493. [PMID: 32008211 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-019-09676-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Depression screening is recommended for all pregnant veterans; however, little is known on how often symptomatic women receive care, how depression treatment presents in practice, and whether women veterans are utilizing treatment during the appreciable perinatal period. Our sample included 142 pregnant veterans from 15 Veterans Health Administration (VA) medical facilities with Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores ≥10. Sociodemographic characteristics, military service, health utilization, and pregnancy related factors were collected as part of a telephone survey. A majority of our sample (70%) had 1 or more mental health visits or antidepressant prescriptions during pregnancy. Women with a history of depression had more mental health visits and a higher percentage of antidepressant use before and during pregnancy than women without a history of depression. Pregnant women veterans without a history of depression may be less likely to receive care for depression during pregnancy. However, the majority of our veterans showing depression symptoms prenatally had at least one mental health visit or an antidepressant medication fill during their pregnancy window, suggesting that mental health care is readily available for women veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee R Kroll-Desrosiers
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Research and Development, VA Central Western Massachusetts, Leeds, MA, USA.
| | - Sybil L Crawford
- Graduate School of Nursing, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Tiffany A Moore Simas
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Massachusetts Medical School/UMass Memorial Health Care, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Melissa A Clark
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Research and Development, VA Central Western Massachusetts, Leeds, MA, USA
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Amante DJ, Blok AC, Nagawa CS, Wijesundara JG, Allison JJ, Person SD, Morley J, Conigliaro J, Mattocks KM, Garber L, Houston TK, Sadasivam RS. The 'Take a Break' game: Randomized trial protocol for a technology-assisted brief abstinence experience designed to engage lower-motivated smokers. Contemp Clin Trials 2020; 93:106002. [PMID: 32335288 PMCID: PMC7298726 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2020.106002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While smoking continues to be the most preventable cause of mortality in the United States, most current smokers remain not ready to quit at any given time. Engaging these 'motivation phase' smokers with brief experiences to build confidence and practice skills related to cessation could lead to sooner and more successful quit attempts. Increasingly available mobile technology and gamification can be used to provide smokers with accessible and engaging support. METHODS We describe our protocol for conducting a randomized controlled trial evaluating Take a Break, an mHealth-based smoking pre-cessation challenge designed for smokers not ready to quit. Participants in the intervention receive 1) Motivational Messages, 2) text message Challenge Quizzes, 3) Goal-setting with tobacco treatment specialist, 4) Coping Mini-Games apps, and 5) Recognition and Rewards for participation during a 3-week challenge. Access to coping mini-games and motivational messaging continues for 6-months. Both intervention and comparison group participants receive brief Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) sampling and daily smoking assessment text messages for three weeks. Primary outcomes include number of days abstinent during the challenge, change in patient-reported self-efficacy after the challenge, time to first quit attempt following the challenge, and 7-day point prevalent smoking cessation at six months. CONCLUSION Take a Break is an innovative approach to engage those not prepared for a quit attempt. Take a Break provides motivation phase smokers with tools and a brief experience to prepare them for a quit attempt, filling a gap in tobacco cessation support and current research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Amante
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America.
| | - Amanda C Blok
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America; Systems, Populations and Leadership Department, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Catherine S Nagawa
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America
| | - Jessica G Wijesundara
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America
| | - Jeroan J Allison
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America
| | - Sharina D Person
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America
| | - Jeanne Morley
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States of America; Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, United States of America
| | - Joseph Conigliaro
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States of America; Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, United States of America
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America; VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, United States of America
| | - Lawrence Garber
- Reliant Medical Group, Worcester, MA, United States of America
| | - Thomas K Houston
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America; Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, United States of America
| | - Rajani S Sadasivam
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States of America
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Gromisch ES, Kulas JF, Altalib H, Kerns RD, Mattocks KM, Brandt CA, Haskell S. Neuropsychological assessments and psychotherapeutic services in Veterans with multiple sclerosis: Rates of utilization and their associations with socio-demographics and clinical characteristics using Veterans Health Administration-based data. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2020; 43:102220. [PMID: 32480347 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2020.102220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As cognitive, emotional, and health-related behavioral issues are prevalent among persons with multiple sclerosis (MS), mental health services are a valuable component of comprehensive care. However, it is unknown how many participate in neuropsychological and psychotherapeutic services, and whether the presence of certain co-occurring conditions increase service use. This study aimed to examine the frequency and associated factors (e.g., age, gender, education, race/ethnicity, and co-occurring conditions) of neuropsychological and psychotherapeutic service utilization in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) among Veterans with MS. METHODS Data were extracted from VHA Corporate Data Warehouse as part of the Women Veterans Cohort Study (WVCS), a longitudinal project with Veterans who served during the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Participants (n = 1,686) were Veterans from the overall WVCS dataset who had three or more VHA MS-related encounters (inpatient, outpatient, and/or disease modifying therapy) within one calendar year between fiscal years 2010 and 2015. Neuropsychological assessment participation was identified by procedural codes 96118 and 96119, while psychotherapeutic services were defined using 90804, 90806, 90808, 96150, 96151, and 96152. Bivariate analyses were conducted to identify socio-demographics and clinical characteristics that differed between Veterans who did and did not use these services. Service dates were compared to the diagnosis dates of the co-occurring conditions to determine whether the majority of the diagnoses preceded the service (e.g., a recognized problem) or were coded the day of or after the initial appointment (e.g., a suspected problem), which informed what co-occurring conditions and participants were included in the subsequent logistic regressions. RESULTS Two hundred eighty-one Veterans (16.67%) participated in a neuropsychological assessment. Veterans who had an evaluation had higher rates of several co-occurring conditions (ps <0.01), though no significant relationships emerged with any of the socio-demographic variables and participation. After controlling for age, gender, education, and race/ethnicity, two previously diagnosed co-occurring conditions predicted service utilization: traumatic brain injuries (TBIs; OR: 2.33, 95% CI: 1.60, 3.35) and mood disorders (i.e., depressive and bipolar disorders; OR: 1.71, 95% CI: 1.26, 2.31). Psychotherapeutic service usage was more common, occurring in over 45% (n = 771) of the sample. Service utilization was associated with several co-occurring conditions (ps <0.001), as well as level of education (p = .003). Focusing on participants who were diagnosed the day of or after the initial encounter, five co-occurring conditions were predictors of psychotherapeutic service use: mood disorders (OR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.34, 2.46), anxiety disorders (OR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.85), sleep disorders (OR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.19, 2.01), alcohol-related disorders (OR: 3.29, 95% CI: 1.79, 6.21), and cognitive disorders (OR: 3.72, 95% CI: 2.29, 6.16). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that these services are being utilized by clinicians and Veterans to address the clinical complexity related to having MS and one or more of these other conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Gromisch
- Mandell Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital, Trinity Health Of New England, 490 Blue Hills Avenue, Hartford, CT, 06112, USA; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA; University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA; Frank H. Netter School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, 370 Bassett Road, North Haven, CT, 06473, USA.
| | - Joseph F Kulas
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Hamada Altalib
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Robert D Kerns
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA; Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, 421 North Main Street, Leeds, MA, 01053, USA; University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 N Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Cynthia A Brandt
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA; Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
| | - Sally Haskell
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA; Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
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Gross GM, Ronzitti S, Combellick JL, Decker SE, Mattocks KM, Hoff RA, Haskell SG, Brandt CA, Goulet JL. Sex Differences in Military Sexual Trauma and Severe Self-Directed Violence. Am J Prev Med 2020; 58:675-682. [PMID: 32037020 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2019.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Previous research has demonstrated an association between military sexual trauma and risk for suicide; however, risk for self-directed violence such as suicide attempt or nonsuicidal self-injury following military sexual trauma is understudied. This study examines the relationship between military sexual trauma and serious self-directed violence resulting in hospitalization, as well as whether this relationship differs by sex. METHODS Participants were 750,176 Operations Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn veterans who were enrolled in Veterans Health Administration care during the period of October 1, 2001-September 30, 2014 and who were screened for military sexual trauma. Data were analyzed in 2019. Bivariate analyses and Cox proportional hazards regression models were employed. RESULTS Women veterans were more likely to screen positive for military sexual trauma (21.33% vs 1.63%), and women and men were equally likely to experience serious self-directed violence (1.19% women vs 1.18% men). Controlling for demographic variables and psychiatric morbidity, military sexual trauma predicted serious self-directed violence for both men and women. Further, men with military sexual trauma were 15% less likely to experience self-directed violence compared with women with military sexual trauma (hazard ratio=0.85, 95% CI=0.74, 0.98). CONCLUSIONS Military sexual trauma is associated with risk for serious self-directed violence for both men and women veterans, and the relationship may be pronounced among women. Results underscore the importance of incorporating military sexual trauma into treatment and preventative efforts for self-directed violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgina M Gross
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - Silvia Ronzitti
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Joan L Combellick
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Suzanne E Decker
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts
| | - Rani A Hoff
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Sally G Haskell
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Cynthia A Brandt
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Joseph L Goulet
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Brunet N, Moore DT, Lendvai Wischik D, Mattocks KM, Rosen MI. Increasing buprenorphine access for veterans with opioid use disorder in rural clinics using telemedicine. Subst Abus 2020; 43:39-46. [PMID: 32078492 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2020.1728466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - David T. Moore
- Yale University Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, USA
- VA Connecticut Health System West Haven Campus, West Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Kristin M. Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Marc I. Rosen
- Yale University Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, USA
- VA Connecticut Health System West Haven Campus, West Haven, CT, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Although breastfeeding is a major public health priority and provides numerous benefits, women veterans encounter many barriers to initiating and sustaining breastfeeding. Women veterans are a growing population with unique health care needs related to exposures and injuries experienced during military service. These military experiences are linked to health diagnoses known to impact postpartum health behaviors, such as breastfeeding. RESEARCH AIM The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with breastfeeding at 4 weeks postpartum among women veterans. METHODS We used 2016-to-2018 survey data from women veterans (N = 420), interviewed before and after delivery, who were enrolled in maternity care coordination at a national sample of Veterans Health Administration facilities. Using the social ecological model, logistic regression was employed to explore the relationship between breastfeeding at least 4 weeks and postpartum and maternal/infant characteristics, interpersonal dynamics, community influences, and system factors. RESULTS The rate of breastfeeding at 4 weeks postpartum was 78.6% among this sample of veterans. Self-employed participants were 2.8 times more likely to breastfeed than those who were employed outside the home. Participants who had been deployed at any point in their military career were twice as likely to breastfeed compared with those who never deployed. In this study sample, race independently predicted lower rates of breastfeeding, with African American participants being 48% less likely to breastfeed as compared with white participants. CONCLUSION Our analysis suggests significant racial disparities in breastfeeding within veteran populations utilizing Veterans Health Administration, despite access to multiple sources of support from both the Veterans Health Administration and the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimrit Keddem
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Marilyn M Schapira
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Philadelphia VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts, USA
- University of Massachusetts, Worcester, MA, USA
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Lynch SM, Wilson SM, DeRycke EC, Driscoll MA, Becker WC, Goulet JL, Kerns RD, Mattocks KM, Brandt CA, Bathulapalli H, Skanderson M, Haskell SG, Bastian LA. Impact of Cigarette Smoking Status on Pain Intensity Among Veterans With and Without Hepatitis C. Pain Med 2019; 19:S5-S11. [PMID: 30203017 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pny146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Objective Chronic pain is a significant problem in patients living with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Tobacco smoking is an independent risk factor for high pain intensity among veterans. This study aims to examine the independent associations with smoking and HCV on pain intensity, as well as the interaction of smoking and HCV on the association with pain intensity. Design/Particpants Cross-sectional analysis of a cohort study of veterans of Operations Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn (OEF/OIF/OND) who had at least one visit to a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) primary care clinic between 2001 and 2014. Methods HCV was identified using ICD-9 codes from electronic medical records (EMRs). Pain intensity, reported on a 0-10 numeric rating scale, was categorized as none/mild (0-3) and moderate/severe (4-10). Results Among 654,841 OEF/OIF/OND veterans (median age [interquartile range] = 26 [23-36] years), 2,942 (0.4%) were diagnosed with HCV. Overall, moderate/severe pain intensity was reported in 36% of veterans, and 37% were current smokers. The adjusted odds of reporting moderate/severe pain intensity were 1.23 times higher (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.14-1.33) for those with HCV and 1.26 times higher (95% CI = 1.25-1.28) for current smokers. In the interaction model, there was a significant Smoking Status × HCV interaction (P = 0.03). Among veterans with HCV, smoking had a significantly larger association with moderate/severe pain (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.50, P < 0.001) than among veterans without HCV (adjusted OR = 1.26, P < 0.001). Conclusions We found that current smoking is more strongly linked to pain intensity among veterans with HCV. Further investigations are needed to explore the impact of smoking status on pain and to promote smoking cessation and pain management in veterans with HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaina M Lynch
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Sarah M Wilson
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina.,Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Eric C DeRycke
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Mary A Driscoll
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, Connecticut.,Department of Psychiatry
| | - William C Becker
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, Connecticut.,Department of Internal Medicine
| | - Joseph L Goulet
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, Connecticut.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, Massachusetts.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cynthia A Brandt
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, Connecticut.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Harini Bathulapalli
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Melissa Skanderson
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Sally G Haskell
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, Connecticut.,Department of Internal Medicine
| | - Lori A Bastian
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven, Connecticut.,Department of Internal Medicine
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Kroll-Desrosiers AR, Crawford SL, Moore Simas TA, Clark MA, Bastian LA, Mattocks KM. Rates and Correlates of Depression Symptoms in a Sample of Pregnant Veterans Receiving Veterans Health Administration Care. Womens Health Issues 2019; 29:333-340. [PMID: 31105035 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2019.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is the most commonly diagnosed medical condition among women veterans ages 18 to 44; however, depression symptoms occurring during pregnancy have not been well-studied in this population. METHODS Pregnant veterans were recruited from 15 Veterans Health Administration sites across the United States; our sample included 501 participants. Sociodemographic characteristics, military service, health status, and pregnancy related factors, as well as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), were collected as part of a telephone survey. Additional data were obtained from electronic health record data. We used multivariable logistic regression models to examine factors associated with an EPDS score suggestive of clinically significant depressive symptoms (≥10). FINDINGS Prenatal EPDS scores of 10 or greater were calculated for 28% of our sample. Our final model indicated that factors associated with decreased odds of an EPDS score of 10 or greater included spousal or partner support during pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.16-0.77) and employment (aOR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.24-0.67). A past diagnosis of anxiety (aOR, 2.54; 95% CI, 1.43-4.50), past antidepressant use (aOR, 3.27; 95% CI, 1.71-6.24), and active duty service (aOR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.08-3.37) were associated with increased odds of having an EPDS score of 10 or greater. CONCLUSIONS This is the first quantitative estimate of depression symptoms in pregnant veterans across multiple Veterans Affairs facilities. The prevalence of depression symptomology was greater than the high end of prevalence estimates in the general pregnant population. Given that the risk of depression increases during the postpartum period, women who can be identified with depressive symptomatology during pregnancy can be offered critical resources and support before giving birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee R Kroll-Desrosiers
- Department of Population and Quantitative Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts.
| | - Sybil L Crawford
- Graduate School of Nursing, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Tiffany A Moore Simas
- Department of Population and Quantitative Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Massachusetts Medical School/UMass Memorial Health Care, Worcester, Massachusetts; Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Melissa A Clark
- Department of Population and Quantitative Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Lori A Bastian
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Department of Population and Quantitative Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; Research and Development, VA Central Western Massachusetts, Leeds, Massachusetts
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Combellick JL, Dziura J, Portnoy GA, Mattocks KM, Brandt CA, Haskell SG. Trauma and Sexual Risk: Do Men and Women Veterans Differ? Womens Health Issues 2019; 29 Suppl 1:S74-S82. [PMID: 31253246 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2019.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Trauma has been associated with risky sexual behavior in diverse populations. However, little is known about this association among men and women veterans. This study hypothesized that 1) a history of trauma would be associated with risky sexual behavior among men and women veterans, 2) interpersonal trauma would predict risky sexual behavior among women, whereas noninterpersonal trauma would predict risky sexual behavior among men, and 3) military-related trauma would constitute additional risk. Using data from 567 women and 524 men veterans enrolled at the Veterans Health Administration, this study investigated the association between trauma-related experiences and risky sexual behavior in the last 12 months. Risk and protective factors that have been frequently associated with sexual behavior in previous research were also included in the model. METHODS This study was drawn from the Women Veterans Cohort Study, a national survey of veterans. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed after multiple imputation for missing data. RESULTS Predictive factors associated with risky sexual behavior differed between men and women veterans. Among women, childhood sexual victimization and intimate partner violence were associated with risky sexual behavior. Among men, binge drinking was the single significant risk factor. Military exposures were not significantly associated with risky sexual behavior in either men or women. CONCLUSIONS This study lays the groundwork for theory-generating research into the psychological underpinnings of noted associations and underscores the importance of integrated health services to address the range of issues affecting sexual behavior and related health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan L Combellick
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Department of Midwifery, Yale School of Nursing, Orange, Connecticut.
| | - James Dziura
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Galina A Portnoy
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Northampton, Massachusetts; Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Cynthia A Brandt
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Sally G Haskell
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut; Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Kroll-Desrosiers AR, Crawford SL, Moore Simas TA, Clark MA, Mattocks KM. Bridging the Gap for Perinatal Veterans: Care by Mental Health Providers at the Veterans Health Administration. Womens Health Issues 2019; 29:274-282. [PMID: 30954382 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant women veterans receive maternity care from community obstetricians but continue to receive mental health care within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Our objective was to explore the experiences of VHA mental health providers with pregnant and postpartum veterans. METHODS Mental health providers (n = 33) were identified at 14 VHA facilities across the United States. Semistructured interviews were conducted over the phone to learn about provider experiences with perinatal women veterans and their perceptions of depression screening and mental health treatment management for pregnant and postpartum veterans receiving mental health care within the VHA system. FINDINGS Providers identified an absence of screening protocols and referral procedures and variability in risk/benefit conversations surrounding psychotropic medication use as important areas of weakness for VHA mental health care during the perinatal period. Care coordination within facilities, primarily through Primary Care-Mental Health Integration teams, was identified as a main facilitator to promoting better mental health care for perinatal veterans. CONCLUSIONS Mental health providers caring for veterans during the perinatal period identified several areas where care could be improved, notably in screening and referral processes. A refinement to current guidelines to specify standard screening tools, screening schedules, and referral processes could potentially engage a greater number of pregnant women in VHA mental health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee R Kroll-Desrosiers
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts.
| | - Sybil L Crawford
- Graduate School of Nursing, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Tiffany A Moore Simas
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Massachusetts Medical School/UMass Memorial Health Care, Worcester, Massachusetts; Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Melissa A Clark
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts; Research and Development, VA Central Western Massachusetts, Leeds, Massachusetts
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Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing number of women veterans are using VA maternity benefits for their pregnancies. However, because the VA does not offer obstetrical care, women must seek maternity care from non-VA providers. The growing number of women using non-VA care has increased the importance of understanding how this care is integrated with ongoing VA medical and mental health services and how perceptions of care integration impact healthcare utilization. Therefore, we sought to understand these relationships among a sample of postpartum veterans utilizing VA maternity benefits. METHODS We fielded a modified version of the Patient Perceptions of Integrated Care survey among a sample of postpartum veterans who had utilized VA maternity benefits for their pregnancies (n = 276). We assessed relationships between perceptions of six domains of patient-reported integrated care, indicating how well-integrated patients perceived the care received from VA and non-VA clinicians, and utilization of mental healthcare following pregnancy. RESULTS Domain scores were highest for items focused on VA care, including test result communication and VA provider's knowledge of patient's medical conditions. Scores were lower for obstetrician's knowledge of patient's medical history. Women with depressive symptom scores indicative of depression rated test result communication as highly integrated, while women who received mental healthcare following pregnancy had low integrated care ratings for the Support for Medication and Home Health Management domain, indicating a lack of support for mental health conditions following pregnancy. DISCUSSION Among a group of postpartum veterans, poor ratings of integrated care across some domains were associated with higher rates of mental healthcare use following pregnancy. Further assessment of integrated care by patients may assist VA providers and policymakers in developing systems to ensure integrated care for veterans who receive care outside the VA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA.
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| | - Aimee Kroll-Desrosiers
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Rebecca Kinney
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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Cordasco KM, Hynes DM, Mattocks KM, Bastian LA, Bosworth HB, Atkins D. Improving Care Coordination for Veterans Within VA and Across Healthcare Systems. J Gen Intern Med 2019; 34:1-3. [PMID: 31098970 PMCID: PMC6542920 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-019-04999-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina M Cordasco
- VA Health Services Research and Development Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation and Policy, Los Angeles, CA, USA. .,Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA. .,Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Denise M Hynes
- Center to Improve Veteran Involvement in Care, Portland VA Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA.,College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts, Leeds, MA, USA.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Lori A Bastian
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities and Education Center, VA Connecticut, West Haven, CT, USA.,Division of General Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Hayden B Bosworth
- Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation (ADAPT), Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.,Departments of Population Health Sciences, Medicine, Psychiatry, and School of Nursing, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - David Atkins
- VA Health Services Research and Development Services, Office of Research and Development, Washington, DC, USA
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Mattocks KM, Cunningham K, Elwy AR, Finley EP, Greenstone C, Mengeling MA, Pizer SD, Vanneman ME, Weiner M, Bastian LA. Recommendations for the Evaluation of Cross-System Care Coordination from the VA State-of-the-art Working Group on VA/Non-VA Care. J Gen Intern Med 2019; 34:18-23. [PMID: 31098968 PMCID: PMC6542862 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-019-04972-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In response to widespread concerns regarding Veterans' access to VA care, Congress enacted the Veterans Access, Choice and Accountability Act of 2014, which required VA to establish the Veterans Choice Program (VCP). Since the inception of VCP, more than two million Veterans have received care from community providers, representing approximately 25% of Veterans enrolled in VA care. However, expanded access to non-VA care has created challenges in care coordination between VA and community health systems. In March 2018, the VA Health Services Research & Development Service hosted a VA State of the Art conference (SOTA) focused on care coordination. The SOTA convened VA researchers, program directors, clinicians, and policy makers to identify knowledge gaps regarding care coordination within the VA and between VA and community systems of care. This article provides a summary and synthesis of relevant literature and provides recommendations generated from the SOTA about how to evaluate cross-system care coordination. Care coordination is typically evaluated using health outcomes including hospital readmissions and death; however, in cross-system evaluations of care coordination, measures such as access, cost, Veteran/patient and provider satisfaction (including with cross-system communication), comparable quality metrics, context (urban vs. rural), and patient complexity (medical and mental health conditions) need to be included to fully evaluate care coordination effectiveness. Future research should examine the role of multiple individuals coordinating VA and non-VA care, and how these coordinators work together to optimize coordination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, Leeds, MA, USA. .,Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
| | | | - A Rani Elwy
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Erin P Finley
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA.,University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Clinton Greenstone
- VHA Office of Community Care, Washington, DC, USA.,University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Michelle A Mengeling
- The Center for Comprehensive Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE) and VA Office of Rural Health (ORH), Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City (VRHRC-IC), Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, IA, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Steven D Pizer
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA.,Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Megan E Vanneman
- Informatics, Decision-Enhancement and Analytic Sciences Center, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine/Division of Epidemiology & Department of Population Health Sciences/Division of Health System Innovation and Research, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Michael Weiner
- VA Health Services Research and Development Center for Health Information and Communication, Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA.,Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indianapolis, IN, USA.,Center for Health Services and Outcomes Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Lori A Bastian
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
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Becker WC, Mattocks KM, Frank JW, Bair MJ, Jankowski RL, Kerns RD, Painter JT, Fenton BT, Midboe AM, Martino S. Mixed methods formative evaluation of a collaborative care program to decrease risky opioid prescribing and increase non-pharmacologic approaches to pain management. Addict Behav 2018; 86:138-145. [PMID: 29576479 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2018.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Opioid prescribing and subsequent rates of serious harms have dramatically increased in the past two decades, yet there are still significant barriers to reduction of risky opioid regimens. This formative evaluation utilized a mixed-methods approach to identify barriers and factors that may facilitate the successful implementation of Primary Care-Integrated Pain Support (PIPS), a clinical program designed to support the reduction of risky opioid regimens while increasing the uptake of non-pharmacologic treatment modalities. METHODS Eighteen Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees across three sites completed a survey consisting of the Organizational Readiness for Implementing Change (ORIC) scale; a subset of these individuals (n = 9) then completed a semi-structured qualitative phone interview regarding implementing PIPS within the VA. ORIC results were analyzed using descriptive statistics while interview transcripts were coded and sorted according to qualitative themes. RESULTS Quantitative analysis based on ORIC indicated high levels of organizational readiness to implement PIPS. Interview analysis revealed several salient themes: system-level barriers such as tension among various pain management providers; patient-level barriers such as perception of support and tension between patient and provider; and facilitating factors of PIPS, such as the importance of the clinical pharmacist role. CONCLUSIONS While organizational readiness for implementing PIPS appears high, modifications to our implementation facilitation strategy (e.g., establishing clinical pharmacists as champions; marketing PIPS to leadership as a way to improve VA opioid safety metrics) may improve capacity of the sites to implement PIPS successfully.
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Lindaman LA, Pilsner JR, Kroll-Desrosiers AR, Haskell S, Brandt CA, Mattocks KM. Semen Quality Parameters Among U.S. Veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation New Dawn. Mil Med 2018; 182:e1775-e1781. [PMID: 29087924 DOI: 10.7205/milmed-d-16-00278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is little research investigating exposures that occurred during war or conflict and the resulting influence on semen quality. We examined the associations between military service and semen quality among U.S. Veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operational New Dawn. METHODS U.S. Veterans (n = 714), who sought fertility treatment and were participants of the Department of Veterans Affairs Women Veterans Cohort Study were included in the current study. Semen quality parameters (semen volume, total sperm count, sperm concentration, and percentage of total motile sperm) measured at fertility clinics in Veterans Affairs Healthcare System were analyzed. FINDINGS The median values of Veterans were 2.7 mL for semen volume, 55.3 × 106 for total sperm count, 22.0 × 106/mL for sperm concentration, and 55% for total motile sperm. No significant differences among Veterans were found between military-specific variables evaluated and sperm quality. In multivariate models, Veterans ≥46 years of age had lower semen volume (β = -0.10 ± 0.05; p < 0.05) and lower percent total motile sperm (β = -18.45 ± 7.0; p = 0.009) than Veterans 18 to 25 years of age. Black and Hispanic Veterans had lower sperm concentrations as compared to White Veterans (β = -0.17 ± 0.07; p = 0.01 and β = -0.20 ± 0.06; p < 0.001, respectively). Finally, Veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder or major depression had lower total sperm motility (β = -0.10 ± 0.03; p = 0.004 and β = -0.09 ± 0.04; p < 0.05, respectively). DISCUSSION Veterans who were older, Hispanic or Black, or diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder or major depression were more likely to have lower sperm quality. Longitudinal studies are needed to better characterize the influence of military-specific exposures on semen quality parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke A Lindaman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Goessmann 149F, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003-9303
| | - J Richard Pilsner
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Goessmann 149F, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003-9303
| | - Aimee R Kroll-Desrosiers
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605
| | - Sally Haskell
- Veteran Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT 06516
| | - Cynthia A Brandt
- Veteran Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT 06516
| | - Kristin M Mattocks
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605
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Mattocks KM, Gibert C, Fiellin D, Fiellin LE, Jamison A, Brown A, Justice AC. Mistrust and Endorsement of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Conspiracy Theories Among Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected African American Veterans. Mil Med 2018; 182:e2073-e2079. [PMID: 29087885 DOI: 10.7205/milmed-d-17-00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has taken a disproportionate toll on the lives of African Americans, and many previous studies suggest HIV conspiracy beliefs and physician mistrust play important roles in this racial disparity. Because many HIV conspiracy theories tie government involvement with the origin and potential cure for HIV, an area for further examination is HIV+ African American veterans in Veterans Health Administration (VHA) care. In addition to HIV conspiracy beliefs, veterans may already be mistrustful of the VHA as a government healthcare provider. This mistrust is significantly associated with poor health outcomes, among both minority and nonminority persons living with HIV. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted interviews with 32 African American veterans at three VHA hospitals to assess HIV conspiracy beliefs and mistrust in physicians providing HIV care. A semistructured interview format allowed respondents to talk freely about their personal history with HIV, their perceptions about living with HIV, and their views on HIV conspiracy beliefs. RESULTS Five major themes arose from these interviews, including that the government uses HIV to control minority populations; the Veterans Affairs healthcare providers may play a role in withholding HIV treatment, and many HIV-infected veterans are suspicious of HIV treatment regimens. Additionally, several HIV-infected veterans in our study disclosed that they did not follow the prescribed treatment recommendations to ensure adherence. CONCLUSION A veteran's beliefs drive views of the healthcare system and trust of HIV-infected veterans' healthcare providers, and impact HIV-infected veterans' willingness to accept treatment for their medical conditions. Further research should continue to examine the impact of mistrust and endorsement of conspiracy beliefs among veterans receiving care in VHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Mattocks
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, 421 N Main Street, Leeds, MA 01053
| | - Cynthia Gibert
- Washington DC VA Medical Center and George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2300 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20037
| | - David Fiellin
- Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Lynn E Fiellin
- Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Annah Jamison
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, 421 N Main Street, Leeds, MA 01053
| | - Amber Brown
- VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, 421 N Main Street, Leeds, MA 01053
| | - Amy C Justice
- Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510
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