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Biln NK, Bansback N, Shojania K, Puil L, Harrison M. A scoping review of triage approaches for the referral of patients with suspected inflammatory arthritis, from primary to rheumatology care. Rheumatol Int 2024:10.1007/s00296-024-05575-8. [PMID: 38530455 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-024-05575-8] [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: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
We aimed to (1) identify existing triage approaches for referral of patients with suspected inflammatory arthritis (IA) from primary care physicians (PCP) to rheumatologists, (2) describe their characteristics and methodologies for clinical use, and (3) report their level of validation for use in a publicly funded healthcare system. The comprehensive search strategy of multiple databases up to October 2023 identified relevant literature and focussed on approaches applied at the PCP-Rheumatologist referral stage. Primary, quantitative studies, reported in English were included. Triage approaches were grouped into patient conditions as defined by the authors of the reports, including IA, its subtypes and combinations. 13952 records were identified, 425 full text reviewed and 55 reports of 53 unique studies were included. Heterogeneity in disease nomenclature and study sample pretest probability was found. The number of published studies rapidly increased after 2012. Studies were mostly from Europe and North America, in IA and Axial Spondyloarthritis (AxSpa). We found tools ranging the continuum of development with those best performing, indicated by the area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) >0.8), requiring only patient-reported questions. There were AUCs for some tools reported from multiple studies, these were in the outstanding to excellent range for the Early IA Questionnaire (EIAQ) (0.88 to 0.92), acceptable for the Case Finding AxSpa (CaFaSpa) (0.70 to 0.75), and poor to outstanding for the Psoriasis Epidemiology Screening Tool (PEST) (0.61 to 0.91). Given the clinical urgency to improve rheumatology referrals and considering the good.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norma K Biln
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Nick Bansback
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Arthritis Research Canada, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advancing Health Outcomes, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kam Shojania
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Rheumatology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Arthritis Research Canada, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advancing Health Outcomes, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lorri Puil
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Therapeutics Initiative, Department of Anaesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Mark Harrison
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, 4625-2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
- Arthritis Research Canada, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
- Centre for Advancing Health Outcomes, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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DiSantostefano RL, Simons G, Englbrecht M, Humphreys JH, Bruce IN, Bywall KS, Radawski C, Raza K, Falahee M, Veldwijk J. Can the General Public Be a Proxy for an "At-Risk" Group in a Patient Preference Study? A Disease Prevention Example in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Med Decis Making 2024; 44:189-202. [PMID: 38240281 PMCID: PMC10865770 DOI: 10.1177/0272989x231218265] [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: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND When selecting samples for patient preference studies, it may be difficult or impractical to recruit participants who are eligible for a particular treatment decision. However, a general public sample may not be an appropriate proxy. OBJECTIVE This study compares preferences for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) preventive treatments between members of the general public and first-degree relatives (FDRs) of confirmed RA patients to assess whether a sample of the general public can be used as a proxy for FDRs. METHODS Participants were asked to imagine they were experiencing arthralgia and had screening tests indicating a 60% chance of developing RA within 2 yrs. Using a discrete choice experiment, participants were offered a series of choices between no treatment and 2 unlabeled hypothetical treatments to reduce the risk of RA. To assess data quality, time to complete survey sections and comprehension questions were assessed. A random parameter logit model was used to obtain attribute-level estimates, which were used to calculate relative importance, maximum acceptable risk (MAR), and market shares of hypothetical preventive treatments. RESULTS The FDR sample (n = 298) spent more time completing the survey and performed better on comprehension questions compared with the general public sample (n = 982). The relative importance ranking was similar between the general public and FDR participant samples; however, other relative preference measures involving weights including MARs and market share differed between groups, with FDRs having numerically higher MARs. CONCLUSION In the context of RA prevention, the general public (average risk) may be a reasonable proxy for a more at-risk sample (FDRs) for overall relative importance ranking but not weights. The rationale for a proxy sample should be clearly justified. HIGHLIGHTS Participants from the general public were compared to first-degree relatives on their preferences for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) preventive treatments using a discrete choice experiment.Preferences were similar between groups in terms of the most important and least important attributes of preventive treatments, with effectiveness being the most important attribute. However, relative weights differed.Attention to the survey and predicted market shares of hypothetical RA preventive treatments differed between the general public and first-degree relatives.The general public may be a reasonable proxy for an at-risk group for patient preferences ranks but not weights in the disease prevention context; however, care should be taken in sample selection for patient preference studies when choosing nonpatients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - G. Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - M. Englbrecht
- freelance healthcare data scientist, Eckental, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute for Clinical Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jennifer H. Humphreys
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Kellgren Centre for Rheumatology, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Ian N. Bruce
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Kellgren Centre for Rheumatology, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | | | - C. Radawski
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - K. Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- MRC Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - M. Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - J. Veldwijk
- School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Erasmus Choice Modelling Centre, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Sharpe L, Richmond B, Todd J, Dudeney J, Dear BF, Szabo M, Sesel AL, Forrester M, Menzies RE. A cross-sectional study of existential concerns and fear of progression in people with Rheumatoid Arthritis. J Psychosom Res 2023; 175:111514. [PMID: 37883892 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2023.111514] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES People with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have higher levels of fear of disease progression (FOP) than cancer survivors. In cancer, FOP is inextricably linked with existential concerns. However, this has not been investigated in people with RA. METHODS We recruited 165 people with RA (96%F) who volunteered for a treatment trial of psychological intervention. Participants completed the Existential Concerns Questionnaire (ECQ) and questionnaires measuring constructs associated with FOP in cancer. We created groups of people with RA, with and without clinically significant levels of FOP (clinical and control groups) and compared their existential concerns. We hypothesized that existential concerns would add to the variance in FOP over and above pain, psychopathology, and disability. RESULTS Nearly two-thirds of people with RA scored in the clinical range for FOP. The clinical group had higher levels of all existential concerns than the control group. When subscales of the ECQ were entered into a multiple regression with FOP as the dependent variable, death anxiety, meaninglessness and guilt domains accounted for significant variance in FOP. Moreover, when added to a regression equation controlling all other variables, existential concerns continued to account for unique variance in FOP (t = 2.712, p = 0.007). CONCLUSION Existential concerns were strongly associated with FOP. While this cross-sectional study cannot determine whether existential concerns underlie FOP in RA, these results show robust relationships that warrant future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Sharpe
- The School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Australia.
| | - Bethany Richmond
- The School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Jemma Todd
- The School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Joanne Dudeney
- The eCentreClinic, School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Australia
| | - Blake F Dear
- The eCentreClinic, School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Australia
| | - Marianna Szabo
- The School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Amy-Lee Sesel
- The School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Madeline Forrester
- The School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Rachel E Menzies
- The School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Australia
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Simons G, Schölin Bywall K, Englbrecht M, Johansson EC, DiSantostefano RL, Radawski C, Veldwijk J, Raza K, Falahee M. Exploring preferences of at-risk individuals for preventive treatments for rheumatoid arthritis. Scand J Rheumatol 2023; 52:449-459. [PMID: 36178461 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2022.2116805] [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] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Some immunomodulatory drugs have been shown to delay the onset of, or lower the risk of developing, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), if given to individuals at risk. Several trials are ongoing in this area; however, little evidence is currently available about the views of those at risk of RA regarding preventive treatment. METHOD Three focus groups and three interviews explored factors that are relevant to first degree relatives (FDRs) of RA patients and members of the general public when considering taking preventive treatment for RA. The semi-structured qualitative interview prompts explored participant responses to hypothetical attributes of preventive RA medicines. Transcripts of focus group/interview proceedings were inductively coded and analysed using a framework approach. RESULTS Twenty-one individuals (five FDRs, 16 members of the general public) took part in the study. Ten broad themes were identified describing factors that participants felt would influence their decisions about whether to take preventive treatment if they were at increased risk of RA. These related either directly to features of the specific treatment or to other factors, including personal characteristics, attitude towards taking medication, and an individual's actual risk of developing RA. CONCLUSION This research highlights the importance of non-treatment factors in the decision-making process around preventive treatments, and will inform recruitment to clinical trials as well as information to support shared decision making by those considering preventive treatment. Studies of treatment preferences in individuals with a confirmed high risk of RA would further inform clinical trial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - K Schölin Bywall
- Centre for Research Ethics & Bioethics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - M Englbrecht
- Freelance Healthcare Data Scientist, Eckental, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute for Clinical Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - E C Johansson
- Patient Research Partner, Swedish Rheumatism Association, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - C Radawski
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - J Veldwijk
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management and Erasmus Choice Modelling Centre, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - K Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- MRC Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - M Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Wells I, Zemedikun DT, Simons G, Stack RJ, Mallen CD, Raza K, Falahee M. Predictors of the likelihood that patients with rheumatoid arthritis will communicate information about rheumatoid arthritis risk to relatives: A quantitative assessment. Patient Educ Couns 2023; 112:107713. [PMID: 37003160 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2023.107713] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
First-degree relatives (FDRs) of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are increasingly recruited to prediction and prevention studies. Access to FDRs is usually via their proband with RA. Quantitative data on predictors of family risk communication are lacking. RA patients completed a questionnaire assessing likelihood of communicating RA risk information to their FDRs, demographic variables, disease impact, illness perceptions, autonomy preferences, interest in FDRs taking a predictive test for RA, dispositional openness, family functioning, and attitudes towards predictive testing. Ordinal regression examined associations between patients' characteristics and their median likelihood of communicating RA risk to FDRs. Questionnaires were completed by 482 patients. The majority (75.1%) were likely/extremely likely to communicate RA risk information to FDRs, especially their children. Decision-making preferences, interest in FDRs taking a predictive test, and beliefs that risk knowledge would increase people's empowerment over their health increased patients' odds of being likely to communicate RA risk information to FDRs. Beliefs that risk information would cause stress to their relatives decreased odds that patients would be likely to communicate RA risk. These findings will inform the development of resources to support family communication about RA risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imogen Wells
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Dawit T Zemedikun
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Christian D Mallen
- Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Medicine, David Weatherall Building, Keele University, Keele, United Kingdom
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom; NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom; Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom; MRC Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and the Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
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6
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Simons G, Veldwijk J, DiSantostefano RL, Englbrecht M, Radawski C, Bywall KS, Valor Méndez L, Hauber B, Raza K, Falahee M. Preferences for preventive treatments for rheumatoid arthritis: discrete choice survey in the UK, Germany and Romania. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2023; 62:596-605. [PMID: 36068022 PMCID: PMC9891433 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keac397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantify preferences for preventive therapies for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) across three countries. METHODS A web-based survey including a discrete choice experiment was administered to adults recruited via survey panels in the UK, Germany and Romania. Participants were asked to assume they were experiencing arthralgia and had a 60% chance of developing RA in the next 2 years and completed 15 choices between no treatment and two hypothetical preventive treatments. Treatments were defined by six attributes (effectiveness, risks and frequency/route of administration) with varying levels. Participants also completed a choice task with fixed profiles reflecting subjective estimates of candidate preventive treatments. Latent class models (LCMs) were conducted and the relative importance of attributes, benefit-risk trade-offs and predicted treatment uptake was subsequently calculated. RESULTS Completed surveys from 2959 participants were included in the analysis. Most participants preferred treatment over no treatment and valued treatment effectiveness to reduce risk more than other attributes. A five-class LCM best fitted the data. Country, perceived risk of RA, health literacy and numeracy predicted class membership probability. Overall, the maximum acceptable risk for a 40% reduction in the chance of getting RA (60% to 20%) was 21.7%, 19.1% and 2.2% for mild side effects, serious infection and serious side effects, respectively. Predicted uptake of profiles reflecting candidate prevention therapies differed across classes. CONCLUSION Effective preventive pharmacological treatments for RA were acceptable to most participants. The relative importance of treatment attributes and likely uptake of fixed treatment profiles were predicted by participant characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jorien Veldwijk
- Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management and Erasmus Choice Modelling Centre, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam.,Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | - Larissa Valor Méndez
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nurnberg and Universitatsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Brett Hauber
- Pfizer, Inc., New York, NY.,Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics Institute, University of Washington School of Pharmacy, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis and MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, University of Birmingham.,Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Saraiva L, Duarte C. Barriers to the Diagnosis of Early Inflammatory Arthritis: A Literature Review. Open Access Rheumatol 2023; 15:11-22. [PMID: 36733437 PMCID: PMC9888401 DOI: 10.2147/oarrr.s282622] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The early identification of patients with inflammatory arthritis and their referral to rheumatologists in order to establish a diagnosis and to start treatment plays a crucial role in patient outcomes. However, it is recognized that a large proportion of patients with inflammatory arthritis are diagnosed very late, losing the opportunity to start treatment in the very early stages of disease, resulting in a worse prognosis. This delay depends on several factors related to the patient, the disease, socio-demographic and health system aspects. Over time, several strategies have been developed and implemented at different levels aiming to overcome such barriers and to reduce the time from the onset of the symptoms until the diagnosis and start of adequate treatment. In this non-systematic comprehensive review, we will describe the main barriers in the identification of patients with inflammatory arthritis at different levels. We will also discuss the different strategies that have been implemented with the objective to overcome the recognized barriers and their impact in the reduction of delays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Saraiva
- Rheumatology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Catia Duarte
- Rheumatology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal,iCBR, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal,Correspondence: Catia Duarte, Rheumatology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Mota Pinto, Coimbra, 3000-004, Portugal, Tel +351 960330278, Email
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Wells I, Simons G, Davenport C, Mallen CD, Raza K, Falahee M. Acceptability of predictive testing for ischemic heart disease in those with a family history and the impact of results on behavioural intention and behaviour change: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1751. [PMID: 36109776 PMCID: PMC9479351 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14116-6] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tests to predict the development of chronic diseases in those with a family history of the disease are becoming increasingly available and can identify those who may benefit most from preventive interventions. It is important to understand the acceptability of these predictive approaches to inform the development of tools to support decision making. Whilst data are lacking for many diseases, data are available for ischemic heart disease (IHD). Therefore, this study investigates the willingness of those with a family history of IHD to take a predictive test, and the effect of the test results on risk-related behaviours. METHOD Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, LILACS and grey literature were searched. Primary research, including adult participants with a family history of IHD, and assessing a predictive test were included. Qualitative and quantitative outcomes measuring willingness to take a predictive test and the effect of test results on risk-related behaviours were also included. Data concerning study aims, participants, design, predictive test, intervention and findings were extracted. Study quality was assessed using the Standard Quality Assessment Criteria for Evaluating Research Papers from a Variety of Fields and a narrative synthesis undertaken. RESULTS Five quantitative and two qualitative studies were included. These were conducted in the Netherlands (n = 1), Australia (n = 1), USA (n = 1) and the UK (n = 4). Methodological quality ranged from moderate to good. Three studies found that most relatives were willing to take a predictive test, reporting family history (n = 2) and general practitioner (GP) recommendation (n = 1) as determinants of interest. Studies assessing the effect of test results on behavioural intentions (n = 2) found increased intentions to engage in physical activity and smoking cessation, but not healthy eating in those at increased risk of developing IHD. In studies examining actual behaviour change (n = 2) most participants reported engaging in at least one preventive behaviour, particularly medication adherence. CONCLUSION The results suggests that predictive approaches are acceptable to those with a family history of IHD and have a positive impact on health behaviours. Further studies are needed to provide a comprehensive understanding of predictive approaches in IHD and other chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imogen Wells
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Clare Davenport
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Christian D Mallen
- Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Medicine, David Weatherall Building, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS trust, Birmingham, UK.,MRC Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and the Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre, Versus Arthritis, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
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Zarbl J, Eimer E, Gigg C, Bendzuck G, Korinth M, Elling-Audersch C, Kleyer A, Simon D, Boeltz S, Krusche M, Mucke J, Muehlensiepen F, Vuillerme N, Krönke G, Schett G, Knitza J. Remote self-collection of capillary blood using upper arm devices for autoantibody analysis in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory rheumatic diseases. RMD Open 2022; 8:rmdopen-2022-002641. [PMID: 36104118 PMCID: PMC9476144 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2022-002641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To evaluate the feasibility, accuracy, usability and acceptability of two upper arm self-sampling devices for measurement of autoantibodies and C reactive protein (CRP) levels in patients with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRDs). Methods 70 consecutive patients with IMRD with previously documented autoantibodies were assigned to supervised and unsupervised self-collection of capillary blood with the Tasso+ or TAP II device. Interchangeability of 17 biomarkers with standard venesection was assessed by: concordance, correlation, paired sample hypothesis testing and Bland-Altman plots. Patients completed an evaluation questionnaire, including the System Usability Scale (SUS) and Net Promoter Score (NPS). Results While 80.0% and 77.0% were able to safely and successfully collect capillary blood using the Tasso+ and TAP II within the first attempt, 69 of 70 (98.6%) patients were successful in collecting capillary blood within two attempts. Concordance between venous and capillary samples was high; 94.7% and 99.5% for positive and negative samples, respectively. For connective tissue disease screen, anti-Ro52 and anti-proteinase 3 autoantibody levels, no significant differences were observed. Self-sampling was less painful than standard venesection for the majority of patients (Tasso+: 71%; TAP II: 63%). Both devices were well accepted (NPS; both: +28%), usability was perceived as excellent (SUS; Tasso+: 88.6 of 100; TAP II: 86.0 of 100) and 48.6 %/62.9% of patients would prefer to use the Tasso+/TAP II, respectively, instead of a traditional venous blood collection. Conclusions Remote self-collection of capillary blood using upper arm-based devices for autoantibody and CRP analysis in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases is feasible, accurate and well accepted among patients. Trial registration number WHO International Clinical Trials Registry (DRKS00024925).
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Zarbl
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Arnd Kleyer
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Simon
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Boeltz
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Johanna Mucke
- Policlinic and Hiller Research Unit for Rheumatology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Felix Muehlensiepen
- Centre for Health Services Research Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany.,Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Gerhard Krönke
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Johannes Knitza
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany .,Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
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10
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Simons G, Ismail N, Sandhu K, Mallen CD, Stack RJ, Pontefract S, Raza K, Falahee M. The potential role of community pharmacy staff in reducing patient delay in consulting with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis: a qualitative study. BMC Rheumatol 2022; 6:50. [PMID: 35999571 PMCID: PMC9400304 DOI: 10.1186/s41927-022-00280-0] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis which can cause joint damage and reduced quality of life. Early treatment of RA within 3 months of symptom onset is associated with improved clinical outcomes. However, this window of opportunity is often missed. One important contributing factor is patients with symptoms of RA delaying consulting their general practitioner (GP). Previous research indicates that patients with inflammatory arthritis are likely to visit pharmacies for advice before consulting their GP. Therefore, pharmacists are well positioned to identify patients with symptoms of early inflammatory arthritis and signpost them appropriately. This research examines community pharmacy staff’s knowledge, perceptions, and approaches to management of patients presenting with symptoms of RA in order to identify training needs and other opportunities for intervention to enhance the role of pharmacy staff in the pathway to care. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 community pharmacy staff in the West Midlands (UK), during a 12-month period (2017–2018). The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis facilitated by NVivo 12. Results There was considerable variation in knowledge and perceptions of RA and the need for early treatment amongst pharmacists and other pharmacy staff. The potential role of pharmacists and other pharmacy staff in reducing delay in help-seeking was also discussed. Four themes emerged from thematic analysis: (1) Variations in perceptions and knowledge about RA. (2) The role of the pharmacy in increasing public awareness about RA. (3) The role of the pharmacy staff in facilitating access to the GP. (4) Practical considerations for pharmacy-based interventions. Conclusion Variability in knowledge and perceptions of RA amongst pharmacists, and amongst other pharmacy staff will affect effective signposting of suspected RA cases. This study identifies opportunities for enhanced training of community pharmacists and other pharmacy staff in relation to inflammatory arthritis as well as other pharmacy-based interventions, such as public awareness campaigns about RA and other musculoskeletal conditions. Together with existing referral services and other pharmacy-based initiatives this could result in enhanced signposting to GP consultation or other appropriate NHS services for inflammatory symptoms and reduced treatment delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing (IIA), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Nour Ismail
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medical and Dental Science, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karanbir Sandhu
- Medical School, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Rebecca J Stack
- Institute of Clinical Science, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sarah Pontefract
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medical and Dental Science, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing (IIA), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing (IIA), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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11
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Bradshaw JT, Parker LM, Gardiner JP. Association of Public Health Measures During the COVID-19 Pandemic With the Incidence of Infectious Conjunctivitis. JAMA Ophthalmol 2022; 140:546-547. [PMID: 35323846 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2022.0279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Justin T Bradshaw
- Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Southern Utah Campus, Ivins
| | - Lawsen M Parker
- Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Southern Utah Campus, Ivins
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12
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Singhal J, Wells I, Simons G, Wöhlke S, Raza K, Falahee M. Public perceptions of predictive testing for rheumatoid arthritis compared to breast cancer and early-onset Alzheimer's disease: a qualitative study. BMC Rheumatol 2022; 6:14. [PMID: 35232494 PMCID: PMC8889636 DOI: 10.1186/s41927-021-00244-w] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing research focus on prediction and prevention of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Information about risk of RA is increasingly available via direct-to-consumer testing. However, there is limited understanding of public perceptions around predictive testing for RA. This study explores public perceptions of predictive testing for RA in comparison to breast cancer (BC) and early-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD). METHODS Four focus groups with 21 members of the public were conducted using hypothetical vignettes about predictive testing for each disease. Transcripts of focus group proceedings were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. RESULTS Thematic analysis of the data produced three key themes: decision-making factors, consequences, and consumer needs. Factors suggested that might influence decision-making about predictive testing included family history, fear, and perceived severity and treatability of the illness. RA was perceived to be less severe and more treatable than BC/AD. Potential consequences of predictive testing across all diseases included lifestyle modification, planning for the future and discrimination by employers or insurers. Predictive testing for RA was perceived to have less potential for negative psychological consequences than other diseases. Participants highlighted that individuals undertaking predictive testing should be signposted to appropriate support services and receive information on the accuracy of predictive testing. It was suggested that strategies to mitigate concerns regarding communication and confidentiality of risk results are required. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study reflect public misunderstandings regarding RA that may impact the uptake of and responses to predictive testing, and key informational needs of individuals considering a predictive test. Predictive strategies should be accompanied by awareness-raising initiatives and informational resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhi Singhal
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Imogen Wells
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK
| | - Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK
| | - Sabine Wöhlke
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK.,Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Hamburg, Germany.,MRC Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, Birmingham, UK.,Research Into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK.
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13
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Simons G, Caplan J, DiSantostefano RL, Veldwijk J, Englbrecht M, Bywall KS, Kihlbom U, Raza K, Falahee M. Systematic review of quantitative preference studies of treatments for rheumatoid arthritis among patients and at-risk populations. Arthritis Res Ther 2022; 24:55. [PMID: 35193653 PMCID: PMC8862509 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-021-02707-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatments used for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are under investigation for their efficacy to prevent RA in at risk groups. It is therefore important to understand treatment preferences of those at risk. We systematically reviewed quantitative preference studies of drugs to treat, or prevent RA, to inform the design of further studies and trials of RA prevention. Stated preference studies for RA treatment or prevention were identified through a search of five databases. Study characteristics and results were extracted, and the relative importance of different types of treatment attributes was compared across populations. Twenty three studies were included 20 of RA treatments (18 of patients; 2 of the general public) and 3 prevention studies with first-degree relatives (FDRs). Benefits, risks, administration method and cost (when included) were important determinants of treatment choice. A benefit was more important than a risk attribute in half of the studies of RA treatment that included a benefit attribute and 2/3 studies of RA prevention. There was variability in the relative importance of attributes across the few prevention studies. In studies with non-patient participants, attributes describing confidence in treatment effectiveness/safety were more important determinants of choice than in studies with patients. Most preference studies relating to RA are of treatments for established RA. Few studies examine preferences for treatments to prevent RA. Given intense research focus on RA prevention, additional preference studies in this context are needed. Variation in treatment preferences across different populations is not well understood and direct comparisons are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK.
| | - Joshua Caplan
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK
| | | | - Jorien Veldwijk
- School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Erasmus Choice Modelling Centre, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Julius Center for Health and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Karin Schölin Bywall
- Centre for Research Ethics and Bioethics, Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ulrik Kihlbom
- Centre for Research Ethics and Bioethics, Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK.,Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis and MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK
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14
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Goodwin J, Savage E, O’Donovan A. “I Personally Wouldn’t Know Where to Go”: Adolescents’ Perceptions of Mental Health Services. Journal of Adolescent Research 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/07435584221076056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore perceptions of mental health services from the perspectives of adolescents with no prior service experience. Thirty students in the Transition Year (fourth year) of secondary school participated in this study: 22 females and 8 males, aged 15 to 16. There was equal distribution across rural and urban settings. Participants had no prior experience of accessing mental health services. Data were collected in secondary school settings in the Republic of Ireland. An interpretive description approach guided this study. Data were collected through individual interviews. To complement interviews, participants drew images of mental health care environments and mental health staff members; drawings were not subjected to analysis. Data (participant interviews) were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Three themes were identified. Participants suggested that “mental health services” differed from “psychiatric services,” with the latter term perceived more negatively. Uncertainty about how to access these services was voiced. Considering the vulnerability of adolescents to the experience of mental distress, education around mental health services is warranted. It is expected that provision of education in this area would enhance service delivery, improve adolescents’ help-seeking behaviors for mental distress, and reduce stigma.
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15
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Pego-Reigosa JM, Peña-Gil C, Rodríguez-Lorenzo D, Altabás-González I, Pérez-Gómez N, Guzmán-Castro JH, Varela-Gestoso R, Díaz-Lambarri R, González-Carreró-López A, Míguez-Senra O, Bóveda-Fontán J, Charle-Crespo Á, Caramés-Casal FJ, Barbazán-Álvarez C, Hernández-Rodríguez Í, Maceiras-Pan F, Rodríguez-López M, Melero-González R, Rodríguez-Fernández JB. Analysis of the implementation of an innovative IT solution to improve waiting times, communication with primary care and efficiency in Rheumatology. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:60. [PMID: 35022061 PMCID: PMC8754366 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-07455-4] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe in detail an innovative program based on telemedicine for semi-automated prioritization of referrals from Primary Care (PC) to Rheumatology, for reproducibility purposes, and to present the results of the implementation study. METHODS The context and situation were carefully analyzed, paying attention to all processes in place, referral numbers, waiting times, and number of complementary tests prior to discharge from Rheumatology. The composition of the team, aims, users, scope, and implementation phases were defined. Eight process indicators were established and measured before and 32 months after the program implementation. RESULTS The program, which includes IT circuits, algorithms based on response to specific guideline-based checklists, e-consultation, and appointments based on priority, was fully implemented in our health area after a pilot study in two PC centers. After implementation, 6185 rheumatology referrals showed an e-consultation response delay of 8.95 days, and to first face-to-face visit (after e-consultation) of 12.6 (previous delay before program implementation was 83.1 days). Resolution by e-consultation reached 20% (1195 patients did not need seeing the rheumatologist to have the problem solved), and 1369 patients (32%) were discharged after the first visit. The overall resolution rate was 44.0% (2564 discharges/5830 e-consultations). From a random sample of 100 visits, only 10% of patients needed additional complementary tests to make a diagnosis and decision by Rheumatology (20.9% decrease from previous period). CONCLUSION A careful analysis of the situation and processes, with implementation of simple IT circuits, allows for the improvement of the efficiency and resolution of problems in Rheumatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- José María Pego-Reigosa
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital of Vigo, Vigo Health Area, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
- IRIDIS (Investigation in Rheumatology and Immune-Mediated Diseases) Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
| | - Carlos Peña-Gil
- Cardiology Department, Santiago de Compostela Health Area, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Service of Research, Education, and Innovation, Galician Health Service, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | | | - Irene Altabás-González
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital of Vigo, Vigo Health Area, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
- IRIDIS (Investigation in Rheumatology and Immune-Mediated Diseases) Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
| | - Naír Pérez-Gómez
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital of Vigo, Vigo Health Area, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
- IRIDIS (Investigation in Rheumatology and Immune-Mediated Diseases) Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
| | - John Henry Guzmán-Castro
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital of Vigo, Vigo Health Area, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ceferino Barbazán-Álvarez
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital of Vigo, Vigo Health Area, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
| | - Íñigo Hernández-Rodríguez
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital of Vigo, Vigo Health Area, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
| | - Francisco Maceiras-Pan
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital of Vigo, Vigo Health Area, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
- IRIDIS (Investigation in Rheumatology and Immune-Mediated Diseases) Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
| | - Marina Rodríguez-López
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital of Vigo, Vigo Health Area, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
| | - Rafael Melero-González
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital of Vigo, Vigo Health Area, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
- IRIDIS (Investigation in Rheumatology and Immune-Mediated Diseases) Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute, Alto do Meixoeiro s/n, 36200 Vigo, Spain
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16
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Falahee M, Raza K. Perspectives of at-Risk Individuals on Preventive Intervention for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Mini Review. Front Immunol 2022; 13:883287. [PMID: 35572603 PMCID: PMC9098966 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.883287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been intense research focus on the biological mechanisms underlying the transition from health to disease for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) over recent years, and it is now well established that a state of autoimmunity precedes the development of symptoms for a large proportion of patients. This has led to an increased interest in the identification of at-risk groups and the potential for preventive intervention. The ability of several immunomodulatory agents to delay or prevent RA is under investigation and novel cellular therapies are in development. Preventive approaches are also being assessed in other chronic autoimmune diseases. For example, an anti-CD3 antibody has recently been shown to delay progression to type 1 diabetes in non-diabetic relatives of patients identified as being at high risk. The identification and treatment of individuals as being at risk of a disease where there is a degree of uncertainty around the potential for benefit is socially and ethically challenging. Recently reported difficulties in recruitment to RA prevention trials have underlined the importance of understanding the perspectives of at-risk individuals to identify barriers and facilitators that need to be addressed in order for preventive strategies to be acceptable. Understanding of their preferences for benefits and risks of preventive interventions can inform efficient intervention prioritization, prevention trial design and the development of informational resources for those at risk. In this review we summarize current knowledge of preferences for RA prevention and make recommendations for further research needed to ensure efficient development of preventive therapies and clinical implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Medical Research Council (MRC) Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and the Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Medical Research Council (MRC) Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and the Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Rheumatology Department, Sandwell and West Birmingham National Health Service (NHS) Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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17
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Butt GF, Hodson J, Wallace GR, Rauz S, Murray PI. Public perceptions of eye symptoms and hospital services during the first UK lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic: a web survey study. BMJ Open Ophthalmol 2021; 6:e000854. [PMID: 34693022 PMCID: PMC8520595 DOI: 10.1136/bmjophth-2021-000854] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to explore the British public’s healthcare-seeking beliefs concerning eye symptoms, and assess how the first COVID-19 lockdown influenced these. Methods and analysis An anonymous web-based survey was disseminated through mailing lists and social media between June and August 2020. The survey sought participants’ views on the severity and urgency of the need for medical review for four ophthalmic and two general medical scenarios on a five-point scale. Participants were asked to answer questions twice: once ignoring the COVID-19 pandemic, and once taking this into account, with additional questions asked to identify factors influencing the decision to seek medical attention and ward admission. Results A total of 402 participants completed the survey (mean age 61.6 years, 63.1% female and 87.7% of white ethnicity). Scores for symptom severity and urgency of medical review increased significantly with the severity of the clinical scenario (both p<0.001). However, participants gave significantly lower scores for the urgency of medical attention when accounting for the COVID-19 pandemic (compared with no pandemic) for all scenarios (all p<0.001). Younger age, greater deprivation and non-white ethnicity were correlated with a lower perception of seriousness and urgency of medical attention. Conclusions During the first UK lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced urgency of medical review for ocular and systemic pathologies was reported in response to the pandemic, which represents a barrier to healthcare-seeking behaviour. This has the potential to critically delay medical review and timely management, negatively impacting patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gibran F Butt
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - James Hodson
- Medical Statistics, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Graham R Wallace
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Saaeha Rauz
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Ophthalmology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Philip I Murray
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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18
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Knitza J, Tascilar K, Gruber E, Kaletta H, Hagen M, Liphardt AM, Schenker H, Krusche M, Wacker J, Kleyer A, Simon D, Vuillerme N, Schett G, Hueber AJ. Accuracy and usability of a diagnostic decision support system in the diagnosis of three representative rheumatic diseases: a randomized controlled trial among medical students. Arthritis Res Ther 2021; 23:233. [PMID: 34488887 PMCID: PMC8420018 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-021-02616-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [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] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing number of diagnostic decision support systems (DDSS) exist to support patients and physicians in establishing the correct diagnosis as early as possible. However, little evidence exists that supports the effectiveness of these DDSS. The objectives were to compare the diagnostic accuracy of medical students, with and without the use of a DDSS, and the diagnostic accuracy of the DDSS system itself, regarding the typical rheumatic diseases and to analyze the user experience. METHODS A total of 102 medical students were openly recruited from a university hospital and randomized (unblinded) to a control group (CG) and an intervention group (IG) that used a DDSS (Ada - Your Health Guide) to create an ordered diagnostic hypotheses list for three rheumatic case vignettes. Diagnostic accuracy, measured as the presence of the correct diagnosis first or at all on the hypothesis list, was the main outcome measure and evaluated for CG, IG, and DDSS. RESULTS The correct diagnosis was ranked first (or was present at all) in CG, IG, and DDSS in 37% (40%), 47% (55%), and 29% (43%) for the first case; 87% (94%), 84% (100%), and 51% (98%) in the second case; and 35% (59%), 20% (51%), and 4% (51%) in the third case, respectively. No significant benefit of using the DDDS could be observed. In a substantial number of situations, the mean probabilities reported by the DDSS for incorrect diagnoses were actually higher than for correct diagnoses, and students accepted false DDSS diagnostic suggestions. DDSS symptom entry greatly varied and was often incomplete or false. No significant correlation between the number of symptoms extracted and diagnostic accuracy was seen. It took on average 7 min longer to solve a case using the DDSS. In IG, 61% of students compared to 90% in CG stated that they could imagine using the DDSS in their future clinical work life. CONCLUSIONS The diagnostic accuracy of medical students was superior to the DDSS, and its usage did not significantly improve students' diagnostic accuracy. DDSS usage was time-consuming and may be misleading due to prompting wrong diagnoses and probabilities. TRIAL REGISTRATION DRKS.de, DRKS00024433 . Retrospectively registered on February 5, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Knitza
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- AGEIS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Koray Tascilar
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Eva Gruber
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hannah Kaletta
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Melanie Hagen
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anna-Maria Liphardt
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hannah Schenker
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Martin Krusche
- Medical Department, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jochen Wacker
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arnd Kleyer
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Simon
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nicolas Vuillerme
- AGEIS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
- LabCom Telecom4Health, University of Grenoble Alpes & Orange Labs, Grenoble, France
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Axel J Hueber
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.
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19
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Fagni F, Knitza J, Krusche M, Kleyer A, Tascilar K, Simon D. Digital Approaches for a Reliable Early Diagnosis of Psoriatic Arthritis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:718922. [PMID: 34458293 PMCID: PMC8385754 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.718922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that develops in up to 30% of patients with psoriasis. In the vast majority of cases, cutaneous symptoms precede musculoskeletal complaints. Progression from psoriasis to PsA is characterized by subclinical synovio-entheseal inflammation and often non-specific musculoskeletal symptoms that are frequently unreported or overlooked. With the development of increasingly effective therapies and a broad drug armamentarium, prevention of arthritis development through careful clinical monitoring has become priority. Identifying high-risk psoriasis patients before PsA onset would ensure early diagnosis, increased treatment efficacy, and ultimately better outcomes; ideally, PsA development could even be averted. However, the current model of care for PsA offers only limited possibilities of early intervention. This is attributable to the large pool of patients to be monitored and the limited resources of the health care system in comparison. The use of digital technologies for health (eHealth) could help close this gap in care by enabling faster, more targeted and more streamlined access to rheumatological care for patients with psoriasis. eHealth solutions particularly include telemedicine, mobile technologies, and symptom checkers. Telemedicine enables rheumatological visits and consultations at a distance while mobile technologies can improve monitoring by allowing patients to self-report symptoms and disease-related parameters continuously. Symptom checkers have the potential to direct patients to medical attention at an earlier point of their disease and therefore minimizing diagnostic delay. Overall, these interventions could lead to earlier diagnoses of arthritis, improved monitoring, and better disease control while simultaneously increasing the capacity of referral centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Fagni
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum fuer Immuntherapie, FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Johannes Knitza
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum fuer Immuntherapie, FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Martin Krusche
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Arnd Kleyer
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum fuer Immuntherapie, FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Koray Tascilar
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum fuer Immuntherapie, FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Simon
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Deutsches Zentrum fuer Immuntherapie, FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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20
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Falahee M, Simons G, DiSantostefano RL, Valor Méndez L, Radawski C, Englbrecht M, Schölin Bywall K, Tcherny-Lessenot S, Kihlbom U, Hauber B, Veldwijk J, Raza K. Treatment preferences for preventive interventions for rheumatoid arthritis: protocol of a mixed methods case study for the Innovative Medicines Initiative PREFER project. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e045851. [PMID: 36916312 PMCID: PMC8039213 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-045851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amidst growing consensus that stakeholder decision-making during drug development should be informed by an understanding of patient preferences, the Innovative Medicines Initiative project 'Patient Preferences in Benefit-Risk Assessments during the Drug Life Cycle' (PREFER) is developing evidence-based recommendations about how and when patient preferences should be integrated into the drug life cycle. This protocol describes a PREFER clinical case study which compares two preference elicitation methodologies across several populations and provides information about benefit-risk trade-offs by those at risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for preventive interventions. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This mixed methods study will be conducted in three countries (UK, Germany, Romania) to assess preferences of (1) first-degree relatives (FDRs) of patients with RA and (2) members of the public. Focus groups using nominal group techniques (UK) and ranking surveys (Germany and Romania) will identify and rank key treatment attributes. Focus group transcripts will be analysed thematically using the framework method and average rank orders calculated. These results will inform the treatment attributes to be assessed in a survey including a discrete choice experiment (DCE) and a probabilistic threshold technique (PTT). The survey will also include measures of sociodemographic variables, health literacy, numeracy, illness perceptions and beliefs about medicines. The survey will be administered to (1) 400 FDRs of patients with RA (UK); (2) 100 FDRs of patients with RA (Germany); and (3) 1000 members of the public in each of UK, Germany and Romania. Logit-based approaches will be used to analyse the DCE and imputation and interval regression for the PTT. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the London-Hampstead Research Ethics Committee (19/LO/0407) and the Ethics Committee of the Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (92_17 B). The protocol has been approved by the PREFER expert review board. The results will be disseminated widely and will inform the PREFER recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Larissa Valor Méndez
- Department of Internal Medicine and Institute for Clinical Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Ulrik Kihlbom
- Centre for Research Ethics & Bioethics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Brett Hauber
- Health Preference Assessment, RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
- Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, University of Washington School of Pharmacy, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jorien Veldwijk
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- School of Health Policy & Management and Erasmus Choice Modelling Centre, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- MRC Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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21
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Birmingham, UK
- Rheumatology Department, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- MRC Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and the Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus ArthritisBirmingham, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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22
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Chilton F, Bradley E, Mitchell T. 'Lost time'. Patients with early inflammatory/rheumatoid arthritis and their experiences of delays in Primary Care. Musculoskeletal Care 2021; 19:495-503. [PMID: 33720502 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early referral forms a crucial part in early inflammatory/rheumatoid arthritis (EI/RA) recovery. Delayed decisions to refer can lead to severe incapacity and emotional distress for individuals and family and feelings of lost time. How patients with EI/RA experience early referral decisions in Primary Care is an under explored area and warrants further investigation. AIM To explore how patients newly diagnosed with EI/RA experienced their early contacts with Primary Care as they negotiated their journey through the referral process into secondary care. DESIGN AND SETTING Qualitative face-to-face interviews with newly diagnosed EI/RA patients. METHODS In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore patients' experiences of referral from first symptoms to General Practitioner referral. All participants were interviewed within 2 weeks of being diagnosed in Secondary Care. Data analysis was conducted using interpretative phenomenological analysis. FINDINGS All participants in this study described having experienced struggles with their navigation through Primary Care towards diagnosis and specialist EI/RA services. This struggle comprised five key elements: 'family persuasion', 'lack of continuity in care', 'pushing for referral', 'strained relations' and 'lost time'. CONCLUSION The delays experienced by patients when attempting to reach an early referral decision in Primary Care cause frustration for those presenting with EI/RA, partly because they do not feel heard. There is a significant impact on patients and their families when referral to specialist care is delayed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Chilton
- Rheumatology Department, Warwick Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Warwick, Warwickshire, UK
| | - Eleanor Bradley
- Division of Health Psychology, College of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Worcester University, Worcester, Worcestershire, UK
| | - Theresa Mitchell
- Academic Unit Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Life and Environmental Sciences, Worcester University, Worcester, Worcestershire, UK
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23
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Jain A, Aggarwal A, Adams J, Jordan RE, Sadhra S, Dubey S, Allen K, Kumar K. Delay in seeking medical help in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in India: A qualitative study. Int J Rheum Dis 2020; 23:1707-1718. [PMID: 33068335 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14001] [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: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease with varied articular and extra-articular manifestations. In developing countries such as India patients with RA often delay seeking medical advice which may impact prognosis and disease burden. AIM To explore perceptions and experiences of patients living in India in seeking medical help for their RA symptoms. METHODS Clinician-diagnosed RA participants from different socioeconomic backgrounds were interviewed using a semi-structured topic guide. Participants were purposively selected and interviewed following an iterative approach. All interviews were recorded and transcribed by an independent company and analyzed using a thematic framework. Findings were reported in accordance with consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research guidelines. RESULTS Twenty participants (13 male, 7 female) with median age 40 years (35.7-46.5) were recruited. Three overarching themes demonstrating participants' experiences and reasons for delay in seeking medical help were identified. (1) "Symptoms perspectives and delay in participants' journey" narrated participants' experiences of having RA symptoms, how these were perceived, rationalized and led to delay. (2) "Participants' experience of the healthcare system" illustrated delay in referral, reaching diagnosis and treatment initiation highlighting their experiences with the health system. (3) "Recommendations for improving care" where participants made recommendations for reducing the delay at local and national levels. CONCLUSION This is the first qualitative study which explored perceptions and experiences of RA patients in India resulting in delay. Improved provision of rheumatology care, effective referral system and greater involvement of government at local and national levels are needed to improve the delay in seeking medical help for Indian patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avinash Jain
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Amita Aggarwal
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Jo Adams
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Rachel E Jordan
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Steven Sadhra
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Shirish Dubey
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Kerry Allen
- School of Social Policy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kanta Kumar
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Mendez SEA, Mendez-Luck CA, Nylund-Gibson K, Ng B. Mental Health Attribution for Mexican-Origin Latinx and Non-Latinx Older Adults: A Latent Class Analysis. Innov Aging 2020; 4:igaa028. [PMID: 34136663 PMCID: PMC8202504 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igaa028] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Providing appropriate and culturally sensitive care to the rapidly growing number of
U.S. Latinx older adults with psychiatric conditions presents a major public health
challenge. We know little about older Latinx adults’ perceived causes of mental health
problems, offering clinicians limited insight to guide successful and culturally
congruent treatment. Moreover, there is a paucity of mental health research examining
heterogeneity in how Latinx individuals may attribute mental health symptoms. The
present study sought to identify how Latinx and non-Latinx older adults attributed the
sources of their mental health problems and how these types of attributions differ by
ethnicity. Research Design and Methods This study analyzed data collected from a retrospective chart review and survey of 673
adults aged 55–95 years (430 Mexican origin and 244 non-Latinx) from a rural psychiatric
outpatient clinic near the California–Mexico border. We conducted stratified latent
class analysis (LCA) by race/ethnicity to explore the mental health attribution beliefs
of Mexican-origin and non-Latinx clinic patients. Results Different LCA patterns for Mexican-origin Latinx versus non-Latinx groups were found.
For non-Latinx adults, there was a class of individuals who attributed their mental
health issues to social and financial problems. For Mexican-origin adults, there was a
class of individuals who attributed their mental health issues to spiritual and/or
supernatural factors, unaffected by acculturation level, depressive symptom severity,
and time spent in the United States, but differing by gender. We found within-group
heterogeneity: Not all Mexican-origin or non-Latinx older adults were alike in how they
conceptualized their mental health. Discussion and Implications Mexican-origin Latinx and non-Latinx older adults attributed their mental health issues
to different causes. More Mexican-origin older adults attributed their symptoms to
spiritual causes, even after controlling for contextual factors. Further research is
needed to determine whether attribution beliefs are affected by specific mental health
diagnoses and other cultural factors not measured in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie E A Mendez
- University of Southern California, University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Children's Hospital Los Angeles
| | | | | | - Bernardo Ng
- Sun Valley Behavioral Research Center, Imperial, California
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25
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Petrova D, Okan Y, Salamanca-Fernández E, Domínguez-López S, Sánchez MJ, Rodríguez-Barranco M. Psychological factors related to time to help-seeking for cancer symptoms: a meta-analysis across cancer sites. Health Psychol Rev 2020; 14:245-268. [PMID: 31284829 DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2019.1641425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The time patients wait before seeking help for cancer symptoms is among the most important factors contributing to diagnostic delays in cancer. We reviewed the association between time to help-seeking and three psychological factors: symptom knowledge, symptom interpretation, and beliefs about cancer. Forty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria, providing data from 22 countries concerning seven cancer sites. Better symptom knowledge was related to lower odds of a long help-seeking interval in both studies with healthy populations (OR = .73, 95% CI [.63, .84], k = 19) and patients (OR = .40, 95% CI [.23, .69], k = 12), and so was interpreting experienced symptoms as cancer-related (OR = .52, 95% CI [.36, .75], k = 13 studies with patients). More positive beliefs about cancer (i.e., that cancer is treatable) were associated with lower odds of a long help-seeking interval in both studies with healthy populations (OR = .70, 95% CI [.52, .92], k = 11) and with patients (OR = .51, 95% CI [.32, .82], k = 7). Symptom knowledge, interpretation, and beliefs about cancer are likely to be universal predictors of help-seeking and should be incorporated into theoretical models of patient help-seeking and interventions aiming to reduce delays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dafina Petrova
- Cancer Registry of Granada, Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University of Granada, Spain
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Yasmina Okan
- Centre for Decision Research, Leeds University Business School, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Elena Salamanca-Fernández
- Cancer Registry of Granada, Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University of Granada, Spain
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - María-José Sánchez
- Cancer Registry of Granada, Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University of Granada, Spain
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Rodríguez-Barranco
- Cancer Registry of Granada, Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University of Granada, Spain
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Knitza J, Knevel R, Raza K, Bruce T, Eimer E, Gehring I, Mathsson-Alm L, Poorafshar M, Hueber AJ, Schett G, Johannesson M, Catrina A, Klareskog L. Toward Earlier Diagnosis Using Combined eHealth Tools in Rheumatology: The Joint Pain Assessment Scoring Tool (JPAST) Project. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e17507. [PMID: 32348258 PMCID: PMC7260666 DOI: 10.2196/17507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Outcomes of patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases have significantly improved over the last three decades, mainly due to therapeutic innovations, more timely treatment, and a recognition of the need to monitor response to treatment and to titrate treatments accordingly. Diagnostic delay remains a major challenge for all stakeholders. The combination of electronic health (eHealth) and serologic and genetic markers holds great promise to improve the current management of patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases by speeding up access to appropriate care. The Joint Pain Assessment Scoring Tool (JPAST) project, funded by the European Union (EU) European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Health program, is a unique European project aiming to enable and accelerate personalized precision medicine for early treatment in rheumatology, ultimately also enabling prevention. The aim of the project is to facilitate these goals while at the same time, reducing cost for society and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Knitza
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rachel Knevel
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.,Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Karim Raza
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West, Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Tor Bruce
- Ocean Observations, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | | - Axel J Hueber
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Martina Johannesson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anca Catrina
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Klareskog
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Birch R, Simons G, Wähämaa H, McGrath CM, Johansson EC, Skingle D, Bayliss K, Starling B, Gerlag DM, Buckley CD, Stack RJ, Raza K, Falahee M. Development and formative evaluation of patient research partner involvement in a multi-disciplinary European translational research project. Res Involv Engagem 2020; 6:6. [PMID: 32099665 PMCID: PMC7031919 DOI: 10.1186/s40900-020-0178-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
PLAIN ENGLISH SUMMARY Patient and public involvement (PPI) improves the quality of health research and ensures that research is relevant to patients' needs. Though PPI is increasingly evident in clinical and health services research, there are few examples in the research literature of effective PPI in translational and laboratory-based research. In this paper, we describe the development and evaluation of PPI in a multi-centre European project (EuroTEAM - Towards Early biomarkers in Arthritis Management) that included both translational and laboratory-based and psychosocial research. We found that although most PPI in EuroTEAM was centred around the psychosocial research, there were examples of PPI in the laboratory studies. As the project evolved, researchers became better at accommodating PPI and identifying PPI opportunities. It was generally agreed that PPI had a positive impact on the project overall, particularly on public engagement with the research. We concluded that the inclusion of both psychosocial and laboratory-based research in the same project facilitated PPI across all aspects of the research. In future projects, we would try to specify individual PPI activities in more detail at the project-planning stage, and better accommodate patient partners who are not native speakers of English. ABSTRACT Background Patient and public involvement (PPI) enhances research quality and relevance and is central to contemporary health policy. The value of PPI has been recognised in rheumatology research, though there are limited examples of PPI in basic and translational science. The EU FP7 funded 'EuroTEAM' (Towards Early biomarkers in Arthritis Management) project was established to develop biomarker-based approaches to predict the future development of rheumatoid arthritis and incorporated psychosocial research to investigate the perceptions of 'at risk' individuals about predictive testing, and to develop informational resources about rheumatoid arthritis (RA) risk. Patient involvement was central to EuroTEAM from the inception of the project. The objective of this paper is to describe the development of PPI in EuroTEAM, formatively assess the impact of PPI from the perspectives of researchers and patient research partners (PRPs), reflect on successes and lessons learned, and formulate recommendations to guide future projects.Methods Two mixed-methods surveys (for PRPs and researchers) and a teleconference were undertaken to assess the impact of PPI on individual work packages and on EuroTEAM overall.Results There was consensus about the positive impact of PPI on the research and on the experiences of those involved. In particular, the positive impact of PPI on the personal development of researchers, and on effective public engagement with EuroTEAM research were highlighted. Researchers described adapting their practice in future projects to facilitate PPI. Spin-off projects and ongoing collaborations between PRPs and researchers reflected the value of PPI to participants. PPI was more frequently integrated in psychosocial research, though examples of PPI in laboratory/translational science were also described. PRPs asked for more opportunities to contribute meaningfully to basic scientific research and for more extensive feedback on their contributions.Conclusions The findings were used to formulate recommendations to guide effective involvement of patients in future similar projects, including identifying specific training requirements for PRPs and researchers, the identification of PRP focused tasks/deliverables at the project planning stage, and supporting access to involvement for all PRPs. Importantly, the distinctive multidisciplinary approach of EuroTEAM, incorporating both basic science and psychosocial research, facilitated patient involvement in the project overall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Birch
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Gwenda Simons
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Heidi Wähämaa
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Catherine M. McGrath
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, B18 7QH, Birmingham, UK
| | - Eva C. Johansson
- EuroTEAM Patient Research Partners, Stockholm, Sweden
- EuroTEAM Patient Research Partners, London, UK
| | - Diana Skingle
- EuroTEAM Patient Research Partners, Stockholm, Sweden
- EuroTEAM Patient Research Partners, London, UK
| | - Kerin Bayliss
- Public Programmes Team, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Bella Starling
- Public Programmes Team, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Danielle M. Gerlag
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Centre, Academic Medical Centre/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- RxCelerate Ltd, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, CB22 3AT UK
| | - Christopher D. Buckley
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, B18 7QH, Birmingham, UK
- Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7FY UK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rebecca J. Stack
- Division of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG1 4BU UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, B18 7QH, Birmingham, UK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
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De Cock D, Van der Elst K, Stouten V, Peerboom D, Joly J, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. The perspective of patients with early rheumatoid arthritis on the journey from symptom onset until referral to a rheumatologist. Rheumatol Adv Pract 2019; 3:rkz035. [PMID: 32083241 PMCID: PMC7018614 DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkz035] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Timely treatment of patients with early RA (ERA) favours a beneficial disease outcome. However, individuals often delay their contact with a health-care professional (HCP) after ERA-related symptom onset. The aim of this study was to investigate the perspective of patients on the journey of a patient from RA symptom onset until referral to a specialist. Methods A subgroup of patients with ERA from the Care in ERA (CareRA) trial were interviewed retrospectively to discuss their initial ERA-related experiences preceding diagnosis, using a bespoke assessment form. The first section of the form focused on initial symptoms and help-seeking behaviour by the patients. The second part probed the actions of the HCPs consulted. Additional notes derived from the patient stories were analysed thematically. Results Among 94 patients, pain (97%), swelling (73%) and stiffness (52%), typically in multiple joints, were reported as initial ERA symptoms. The general practitioner (GP) was generally the first HCP to be contacted (87%). Frequently reported reasons to visit an HCP were intense pain (90.4%) and difficulties in performing daily activities (69%). In 44.1% of patients, the HCP suspected ERA at the first visit. Approximately 25% of patients needed more than five visits before detection of ERA. GPs mainly referred patients to rheumatologists (71%). Thematic analysis uncovered that multiple HCPs were often involved in the journey to RA detection and referral. Conclusion Pain is the most commonly reported initial symptom of ERA and the main reason to visit an HCP, usually a GP. These GPs play a pivotal role in early detection and correct referral. Furthermore, the journey of a patient seems complex, often with multiple HCPs being involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diederik De Cock
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kristien Van der Elst
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Stouten
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Donna Peerboom
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Joly
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rene Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Stack RJ, Nightingale P, Jinks C, Shaw K, Herron-Marx S, Horne R, Deighton C, Kiely P, Mallen C, Raza K. Delays between the onset of symptoms and first rheumatology consultation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in the UK: an observational study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e024361. [PMID: 30837252 PMCID: PMC6429945 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [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: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate delays from symptom onset to rheumatology assessment for patients with a new onset of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or unclassified arthritis. METHODS Newly presenting adults with either RA or unclassified arthritis were recruited from rheumatology clinics. Data on the length of time between symptom onset and first seeing a GP (patient delay), between first seeing a general practitioner (GP) and being referred to a rheumatologist (general practitioner delay) and being seen by a rheumatologist following referral (hospital delay) were captured. RESULTS 822 patients participated (563 female, mean age 55 years). The median time between symptom onset and seeing a rheumatologist was 27.2 weeks (IQR 14.1-66 weeks); only 20% of patients were seen within the first 3 months following symptom onset. The median patient delay was 5.4 weeks (IQR 1.4-26.3 weeks). Patients who purchased over-the-counter medications or used ice/heat packs took longer to seek help than those who did not. In addition, those with a palindromic or an insidious symptom onset delayed for longer than those with a non-palindromic or acute onset. The median general practitioner delay was 6.9 weeks (IQR 2.3-20.3 weeks). Patients made a mean of 4 GP visits before being referred. The median hospital delay was 4.7 weeks (IQR 2.9-7.5 weeks). CONCLUSION This study identified delays at all levels in the pathway towards assessment by a rheumatologist. However, delays in primary care were particularly long. Patient delay was driven by the nature of symptom onset. Complex multi-faceted interventions to promote rapid help seeking and to facilitate prompt onward referral from primary care should be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Nightingale
- Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Clare Jinks
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Karen Shaw
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Rob Horne
- UCL School of Pharmacy, UCL, London, UK
| | - Chris Deighton
- Department of Rheumatology, Derby Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Patrick Kiely
- Department of Rheumatology, St Georges University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Christian Mallen
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
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Bartlett SJ, Gutierrez AK, Butanis A, Bykerk VP, Curtis JR, Ginsberg S, Leong AL, Lyddiatt A, Nowell WB, Orbai AM, Smith KC, Bingham CO. Combining online and in-person methods to evaluate the content validity of PROMIS fatigue short forms in rheumatoid arthritis. Qual Life Res 2018; 27:2443-2451. [PMID: 29797175 PMCID: PMC6113070 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-018-1880-x] [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] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fatigue is frequent and often severe and disabling in RA, and there is no consensus on how to measure it. We used online surveys and in-person interviews to evaluate PROMIS Fatigue 7a and 8a short forms (SFs) in people with RA. METHODS We recruited people with RA from an online patient community (n = 200) and three academic medical centers (n = 84) in the US. Participants completed both SFs then rated the comprehensiveness and comprehensibility of the items to their fatigue experience. Cognitive debriefing of items was conducted in a subset of 32 clinic patients. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and associations were evaluated using Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients. RESULTS Mean SF scores were similar (p ≥ .61) among clinic patients reflecting mild fatigue (i.e., 54.5-55.9), but were significantly higher (p < .001) in online participants. SF Fatigue scores correlated highly (r ≥ 0.82; p < .000) and moderately with patient assessments of disease activity (r ≥ 0.62; p = .000). Most (70-92%) reported that the items "completely" or "mostly" reflected their experience. Almost all (≥ 94%) could distinguish general fatigue from RA fatigue. Most (≥ 85%) rated individual items questions as "somewhat" or "very relevant" to their fatigue experience, averaged their fatigue over the past 7 days (58%), and rated fatigue impact versus severity (72 vs. 19%). 99% rated fatigue as an important symptom they considered when deciding how well their current treatment was controlling their RA. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that items in the single-score PROMIS Fatigue SFs demonstrate content validity and can adequately capture the wide range of fatigue experiences of people with RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Bartlett
- Center for Health Outcomes Research, McGill University, 5252 de Maisonneuve West, #3D-57, Montreal, QC, H4A 3S5, Canada.
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Mason F Lord Tower, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Rm 404, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
| | - A K Gutierrez
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Mason F Lord Tower, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Rm 404, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
- Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health, Pasig City, Philippines
| | - A Butanis
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Mason F Lord Tower, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Rm 404, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - V P Bykerk
- Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 East 71st St, 7th floor, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - J R Curtis
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - S Ginsberg
- Global Healthy Living Foundation, Upper Nyack, NY, USA
| | - A L Leong
- Healthy Motivation, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | | | - W B Nowell
- Global Healthy Living Foundation, Upper Nyack, NY, USA
| | - A M Orbai
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Mason F Lord Tower, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Rm 404, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - K C Smith
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Center for Qualitative Studies in Health and Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - C O Bingham
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Mason F Lord Tower, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Rm 404, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
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Bassett AM, de Souza S, Williams R, Lempp H. Rheumatoid Arthritis Portrayal by UK National Newspapers 2011-2016: A Service User - Led Thematic Analysis of Language Used. BMC Rheumatol 2018; 2:5. [PMID: 30886956 PMCID: PMC6390613 DOI: 10.1186/s41927-018-0013-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An important source of knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes about illness is the mass media. Research has established the often negative and emotive language utilised by journalists to report on physical and mental long-term illnesses. The limited amount of research on rheumatological conditions has largely focused on the extent of, and/or accuracy of media coverage. This is the first published study to examine systematically the language used by the United Kingdom (UK) popular press to specifically describe rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS A patient and public involvement (PPI) approach, involving academics and service users with RA, was used to conduct the research. LexisNexis online repository of print media was searched for articles within a defined five year time frame, which included RA in the headline and/or lead paragraph of 15 UK national non-specialist newspapers. Resultant articles were uploaded to NVivo, and a realist perspective aided a thematic analysis of the data set. RESULTS A search of LexisNexis produced 413 newspaper articles, of which 147 met the inclusion criteria. Three themes emerged: (1) language used to describe RA; (2) language used to refer to those who live with RA and; (3) language used to report on potential new treatments for RA. Negative and emotive terms such as 'attack', 'painful', 'crippling', and 'agony' were the most frequently used to describe the experience of RA. People diagnosed with RA were often portrayed as 'sufferers' or 'victims', though neutral language was also deployed. 'Hope' and 'breakthrough' were the most reported terms for potential new treatments for RA. Across the three themes, tabloid and middle market newspaper articles applied more sensationalised language with attention grabbing headlines and news stories. By contrast, such emotive terminology was less apparent in broadsheets. CONCLUSIONS The media is a source of information about RA for the general population, but the quality of newspaper journalism about the condition requires improvement. The findings may act as a stimulus for a national public awareness initiative and/or social marketing campaign. How the language currently constructed to describe RA in the press is received by people with RA would be an important area for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Mark Bassett
- King’s College London, Weston Education Centre, 10 Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ UK
| | - Savia de Souza
- King’s College London, Weston Education Centre, 10 Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ UK
| | - Ruth Williams
- King’s College London, Weston Education Centre, 10 Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ UK
| | - Heidi Lempp
- King’s College London, Weston Education Centre, 10 Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ UK
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Massone F, Martínez ME, Pascual-Ramos V, Quintana R, Stange L, Caballero-Uribe CV, Ferreyra-Garrot L, Kourilovitch M, Duarte M, Baumert C, Vergara C, Gareca N, Rodríguez C, Khoury V, Medina M, Cardiel MH, Massardo L. Educational website incorporating rheumatoid arthritis patient needs for Latin American and Caribbean countries. Clin Rheumatol 2017; 36:2789-2797. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-017-3866-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Falahee M, Simons G, Buckley CD, Hansson M, Stack RJ, Raza K. Patients' Perceptions of Their Relatives' Risk of Developing Rheumatoid Arthritis and of the Potential for Risk Communication, Prediction, and Modulation. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2017; 69:1558-1565. [DOI: 10.1002/acr.23179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Revised: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christopher D. Buckley
- University of Birmingham, and Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust; Birmingham UK
| | | | - Rebecca J. Stack
- University of Birmingham, Birmingham, and Trent University; Nottingham UK
| | - Karim Raza
- University of Birmingham, and Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust; Birmingham UK
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Simons G, Lumley S, Falahee M, Kumar K, Mallen CD, Stack RJ, Raza K. The pathway to consultation for rheumatoid arthritis: exploring anticipated actions between the onset of symptoms and face-to-face encounter with a healthcare professional. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2017; 18:258. [PMID: 28615051 PMCID: PMC5471998 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-017-1619-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [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: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background When people first experience symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) they often delay seeking medical attention resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment. This research assesses behaviours people might engage in prior to, or instead of, seeking medical attention and compares these with behaviours related to illnesses which are better publicised. Methods Thirty-one qualitative interviews with members of the general public explored intended actions in relation to two hypothetical RA vignettes (with and without joint swelling) and two non-RA vignettes (bowel cancer and angina). The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Analysis focused on intended information gathering and other self-management behaviours in the interval between symptom onset and help-seeking. Results Participants were more likely to envision self-managing symptoms when confronted with the symptoms of RA compared to the other vignettes. Participants would look for information to share responsibility for decision making and get advice and reassurance. Others saw no need for information seeking, perceived the information available as untrustworthy or, particularly in the case of bowel cancer and angina, would not want to delay seeking medical attention. Participants further anticipated choosing not to self-manage the symptoms; actively monitoring the symptoms (angina/ bowel cancer) or engaging in self-treatment of symptom(s). Discussion These results help define targets for interventions to increase appropriate help-seeking behaviour for people experiencing the initial symptoms of RA, such as educational interventions directed at allied healthcare professionals from whom new patients may seek information on self-management techniques, or the development of authoritative and accessible informational resources for the general public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Sophie Lumley
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kanta Kumar
- Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Christian D Mallen
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Research Institute for Primary Care & Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- College of Business Law & Social Sciences, School of Social Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK; Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals National Health Service (NHS) Trust, Birmingham, UK
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