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Bono K, Caceda JA, Zhai M, Horng H, Goldstein C, Sifri Z, Jobbagy Z, Glass NE. Timing of Acquisition of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Nasal Carriage: Can we Limit Repeat Screening? J Surg Res 2024; 295:89-94. [PMID: 38000259 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2023.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Broad-spectrum empiric antibiotics are routinely administered to hospitalized patients with potential infections. These antibiotics provide protection; however, they come with their own negative effects. The utility of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) nasal screening to steward anti-MRSA empiric antibiotics in hospitalized patients is established. With this current study, we look to determine the optimal frequency of MRSA nasal testing to help limit unnecessary testing consistent with the efforts of Choosing Wisely. We hypothesize that MRSA PCR nasal swab conversion will be low within the first 2 wk after index swab collection. METHODS We performed a single-center retrospective chart review of all adult patient encounters from October 2019-July 2021 with MRSA PCR nasal testing. We excluded duplicate patient encounters. Further exclusion criteria included patients with a single MRSA PCR swab and those who tested positive for MRSA colonization on their index swab. We evaluated how many conversions from negative to positive there were, and the timing of those relative to those that did not develop colonization while in the hospital. RESULTS 263 patients had multiple MRSA nares screening. 215 patients had 2 swab collections, 35 patients had 3 swab collections, 9 patients had 4 swab collections, and 4 patients had 5 swab collections. 14 converted from negative to positive. The time of conversions ranged from within 0-36 d, with an overall cumulative conversion of 5%. The rate of cumulative conversion from one week was 1.9%, for 2 wk it was 3.4%. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that MRSA PCR nasal swab conversion is unlikely to occur within 2 wk. Therefore, to optimize resources, further investigation should be conducted to target guidelines as well as systems to limit repeat swab testing. We will investigate the utility of this after implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy Bono
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | | | - Merry Zhai
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Helen Horng
- Department of Pharmacy, University Hospital, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Carma Goldstein
- Department of Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Ziad Sifri
- Department of Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Zsolt Jobbagy
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Nina E Glass
- Department of Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey.
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Riganti P, Kopitowski KS, McCaffery K, van Bodegom-Vos L. The paradox of using SDM for de-implementation of low-value care in the clinical encounter. BMJ Evid Based Med 2024; 29:14-16. [PMID: 37080738 DOI: 10.1136/bmjebm-2022-112201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Riganti
- Family and Community Medicine Department, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Karin Silvana Kopitowski
- Family and Community Medicine Department, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Kirsten McCaffery
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Leti van Bodegom-Vos
- Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
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Lian OM, Randsborg PH, Jakobsen RB, Khan Bukholm IR, Aae TF. Prevalence of malpractice claims after arthroscopic shoulder surgery: analysis of 69,097 procedures from a national registry in Norway. Patient Saf Surg 2023; 17:25. [PMID: 37853493 PMCID: PMC10585783 DOI: 10.1186/s13037-023-00378-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systematic analysis of compensation claims following patient injuries is helpful in improving patient safety. The objective of the current study was to assess compensation claims after arthroscopic treatment of rotator cuff ruptures, impingement, and acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis reported to the Norwegian System of Patient Injury Compensation and evaluate if there was regional variation on the risk of patient injuries leading to an accepted compensation claim. METHODS Data from the Norwegian System of Patient Injury Compensation and the Norwegian Patient Registry (NPR) from 2008 to 2018 were collected. Demographics (age and sex) and type of claim and reasons for accepted claims were obtained from the Norwegian System of Patient Injury Compensation, while the number of arthroscopic procedures was collected from NPR. The treating institutions were grouped on geography according to Norway's four regional Health Trusts and private institutions and the effect of geography on the probability of an accepted claim was estimated. RESULTS NPR registered 69,097 shoulder arthroscopies during the study period, of which 216 (0.3%) compensation claims were filed for patient injury. A total of 38% of the claims were accepted, representing 0.1% of the arthroscopic procedures. Infection (37.8%) was the most common reason for accepted claim, followed by no surgical indication (15.9%) and wrong surgical technique (12.2%). We found a statistically significantly increased odds ratio for a claim being accepted in both the smallest and largest regional Health Trusts compared to the other regional Health Trusts and private institutions. CONCLUSIONS Compensation claims due to patient injury following shoulder arthroscopy are rare (0.3% of patients file a claim, of which a third is accepted (0.1% of all shoulder arthroscopy patients)). The most common reason for accepted claim was infection followed by lack of indication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ola Midtsaether Lian
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Helse Møre and Romsdal HT, Kristiansund Hospital, Kristiansund, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, NTNU, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Per-Henrik Randsborg
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rune Bruhn Jakobsen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Department of Health Management and Health Economics, Institute of Health and Society, The Medical Faculty, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Tommy Frøseth Aae
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Helse Møre and Romsdal HT, Kristiansund Hospital, Kristiansund, Norway
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, NTNU, Trondheim, Norway
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Douglas P. Does the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine's Clinical Protocol #36 'The Mastitis Spectrum' promote overtreatment and risk worsened outcomes for breastfeeding families? Commentary. Int Breastfeed J 2023; 18:51. [PMID: 37670315 PMCID: PMC10481477 DOI: 10.1186/s13006-023-00588-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2022 the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) published Clinical Protocol #36: The Mastitis Spectrum, which aims to update clinical approaches to management of benign lactation-related breast inflammation. The protocol has been timely because of the exponential increase in knowledge about the human milk microbiome over the past decade. This Commentary aims to continue respectful debate amongst clinicians and researchers within the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine and more broadly, confident that we share a fundamental commitment to promote breastfeeding and support the well-being of lactating women, their infants and their families. ANALYSIS Although Clinical Protocol #36 offers advances, it does not fulfil the principles of best practice implementation science for translation of evidence into clinical guidelines. Clinical Protocol #36 inaccurately represents studies; misrepresents theoretical models as proven aetiologies; does not consistently attribute sources; does not reliably apply the SORT taxonomy; and relies upon single case reports. As a result, various recommendations in Clinical Protocol #36 lack an evidence-base or credible underlying theoretical model. This includes recommendations to use 'lymphatic drainage' massage, therapeutic ultrasound, and oral lecithin. Similarly, based on a contestable theoretical model which is presented as fact, Clinical Protocol #36 makes the recommendation to either reduce frequency of milk removal or to maintain current frequency of milk removal during an episode of breast inflammation. Although Clinical Protocol #36 limits this advice to cases of 'hyperlactation', the diagnosis 'hyperlactation' itself is undefinable. As a result, this recommendation may put breastfeeding women who present with breast inflammation at risk of worsened inflammation and decreased breast milk production. CONCLUSION Clinical Protocol #36 offers some advances in the management of breast inflammation. However, Clinical Protocol #36 also exposes clinicians to two international trends in healthcare which undermine health system sustainability: overdiagnosis, including by over-definition, which increases risk of overtreatment; and antibiotic over-use, which worsens the crisis of global antimicrobial resistance. Clinical Protocol #36 also recommends unnecessary or ineffective interventions which may be accessed by affluent patients within advanced economies but are difficult to access for the global majority. The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine may benefit from a review of processes for development of Clinical Protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Douglas
- The School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia.
- General Practice Clinical Unit, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
- Medical Director, The NDC Institute, ndcinstitute.com.au, Brisbane, Australia.
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Lang E, Nożewski J. Why we all need Choosing Wisely? Intern Emerg Med 2023; 18:1613-1616. [PMID: 37477819 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-023-03356-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eddy Lang
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Jakub Nożewski
- Department of Emergency Medicine, John Biziel's Clinical Hospital No 2, Street: Ujejskiego 75, 85-168, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
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Grimshaw JM, Levinson W. Reducing low value care: opportunities and challenges for Choosing Wisely campaigns. BMJ Evid Based Med 2023:bmjebm-2023-112271. [PMID: 37586873 DOI: 10.1136/bmjebm-2023-112271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy M Grimshaw
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wendy Levinson
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Verkerk EW, Boekkooi JAH, Pels EGM, Kool RB. Exploring patients' perceptions of low-value care: An interview study. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2023; 111:107687. [PMID: 36958071 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2023.107687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Clinicians consider patients' expectations and demands as a major driver of low-value care. However, little is known about the patients' perspective. We aimed to explore patients' perceptions of low-value care. METHODS We performed semi-structured interviews with 24 patients from the Netherlands and explored their ideas of and experiences with low-value care, and their perception of its consequences and solutions. The interviews were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS Patients considered several types of care to be of low value, such as duplicate care, care that does not fit their preferences, inefficient care, and care that could have been prevented. The main causes of low-value care according to patients are poor clinician-patient communication and adhering to protocols instead of tailoring care to the individual patient. Consequences of low-value care were a burden for the patient, higher healthcare costs, and less room for high-value care. CONCLUSION Patients' view of low-value care extends beyond care that is medically ineffective. Their experiences could help to identify opportunities to reduce the (perceived) use of low-value care. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Future de-implementation studies could benefit from engaging patients. Dutch patients understand the importance of reducing low-value care and could be strong advocates for de-implementation programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva W Verkerk
- Department of IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Julia A H Boekkooi
- Department of IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Elmar G M Pels
- Department of Medical Specialist Care, Netherlands Patients Federation, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Rudolf B Kool
- Department of IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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Trapani S, Montemaggi A, Indolfi G. Choosing Wisely in pediatric healthcare: A narrative review. Front Pediatr 2023; 10:1071088. [PMID: 36704146 PMCID: PMC9871764 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1071088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background It has been estimated that 20% of the tests and therapies currently prescribed in North America are likely unnecessary, add no value, and may even cause harm. The Choosing Wisely (CW) campaign was launched in 2012 in the US and Canada to limit the overuse of medical procedures in adult and pediatric healthcare, to avoid overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Methods In this narrative review, we describe the birth and spread of the CW campaign all over the world, with emphasis on CW in pediatric healthcare. Results To date, CW has spread to more than 25 countries and 80 organizations, with 700 recommendations published. The awareness of medication overuse also made its way into pediatrics. One year after the launch of the CW campaign, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the pediatric section of the Society of Hospital Medicine provided the first recommendations specifically aimed at pediatricians. Thereafter, many European pediatric societies also became active in the CW campaign and published specific top-5 recommendations, although there is not yet a common set of CW recommendations in Europe. Discussion We reviewed the main pediatric CW recommendations in medical and surgical fields and discussed how the recommendations have been produced, published, and disseminated. We also analyzed whether and how the CW recommendations impacted pediatric medical practice. Furthermore, we highlighted the common obstacles in applying CW recommendations, such as pressure from patients and families, diagnostic uncertainty, and worries about legal problems. Finally, we highlighted the necessity to foster the CW culture, develop an implementation plan, and measure the results in terms of overuse decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Trapani
- Pediatric Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Indolfi
- Pediatric Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy
- Department NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Abbott JH, Wilson R, Pryymachenko Y, Sharma S, Pathak A, Chua JYY. Economic evaluation: a reader's guide to studies of cost-effectiveness. Arch Physiother 2022; 12:28. [PMID: 36517825 PMCID: PMC9753355 DOI: 10.1186/s40945-022-00154-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding what an economic evaluation is, how to interpret it, and what it means for making choices in a health delivery context is necessary to contribute to decisions about healthcare resource allocation. The aim of this paper to demystify the working parts of a health economic evaluation, and explain to clinicians and clinical researchers how to read and interpret cost-effectiveness research. MAIN BODY This primer distils key content and constructs of economic evaluation studies, and explains health economic evaluation in plain language. We use the PICOT (participant, intervention, comparison, outcome, timeframe) clinical trial framework familiar to clinicians, clinical decision-makers, and clinical researchers, who may be unfamiliar with economics, as an aide to reading and interpreting cost-effectiveness research. We provide examples, primarily of physiotherapy interventions for osteoarthritis. CONCLUSIONS Economic evaluation studies are essential to improve decisions about allocating resources, whether those resources be your time, the capacity of your service, or the available funding across the entire healthcare system. The PICOT framework can be used to understand and interpret cost-effectiveness research.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Haxby Abbott
- grid.29980.3a0000 0004 1936 7830Centre for Musculoskeletal Outcomes Research, Otago Medical School, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Ross Wilson
- grid.29980.3a0000 0004 1936 7830Health Economist & Research Fellow, Otago Medical School, Centre for Musculoskeletal Outcomes Research, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Yana Pryymachenko
- grid.29980.3a0000 0004 1936 7830Health Economist & Postdoctoral Fellow, Otago Medical School, Centre for Musculoskeletal Outcomes Research, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Saurab Sharma
- grid.29980.3a0000 0004 1936 7830Otago Medical School, Postdoctoral Fellow, Centre for Musculoskeletal Outcomes Research, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anupa Pathak
- grid.29980.3a0000 0004 1936 7830Graduate Research Student, Otago Medical School, Centre for Musculoskeletal Outcomes Research, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jason Y. Y. Chua
- grid.29980.3a0000 0004 1936 7830Graduate Research Student, Otago Medical School, Centre for Musculoskeletal Outcomes Research, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Born
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Canada
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Laba TL, Worthington HC, Cheng L, Chan FKI, Bansback N, Law MR. The impact of the Choosing Wisely Canada campaign on the simultaneous use of angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers: interrupted time-series analysis. CMAJ Open 2022; 10:E1059-E1066. [PMID: 36735223 PMCID: PMC9828945 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20210185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Choosing Wisely is a high-profile campaign seeking to reduce the use of low-value care. We investigated the impact of a Choosing Wisely Canada recommendation against using a combination of angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) for the management of hypertension, heart failure or diabetic nephropathy on population-level use of these medications in British Columbia, Canada. METHODS We identified all people (any age) who were continuously registered with BC's Medical Service Plan between 2010 and 2017 with the targeted conditions. Using prescription claims data and an interrupted time-series analysis, we estimated the number of people on combination therapy per month, the proportion of days covered (PDC) by combination therapy per month and proportion of all combination prescriptions started per month in the 2 years before and after the introduction of the recommendation on Oct. 29, 2014. RESULTS Of 1 104 593 people (mean age 65 yr, standard deviation 16 yr) in our study cohort, 4.6% were exposed to combination therapy, largely prescribed by family physicians (84%). The number of people on combination therapy and the PDC were declining before the recommendation, but the proportion of combination prescriptions started in the 2 years before the recommendation was increasing. After the recommendation, we observed no statistically significant changes in any outcome. The pre-existing downward trend of the monthly number of people decelerated (16.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] 14.0 to 19.5) and the proportion of prescriptions started increased (0.13%, 95% CI 0.08% to 0.18%). INTERPRETATION The Choosing Wisely Canada recommendation against using a combination of ACE inhibitors and ARBs was not associated with reduced combination therapy use in the targeted conditions. The observed pre-existing declines in this practice questions the process of selecting recommendations, and the optimal implementation and value of Choosing Wisely campaigns without other reinforcing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey-Lea Laba
- Pharmacy Program (Laba), Clinical and Health Sciences Unit, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; The Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia; Centre for Health Services and Policy Research (Worthington, Chen, Bansback, Law), School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health (Chan), McGill University, Montréal, Que.
| | - Heather C Worthington
- Pharmacy Program (Laba), Clinical and Health Sciences Unit, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; The Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia; Centre for Health Services and Policy Research (Worthington, Chen, Bansback, Law), School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health (Chan), McGill University, Montréal, Que
| | - Lucy Cheng
- Pharmacy Program (Laba), Clinical and Health Sciences Unit, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; The Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia; Centre for Health Services and Policy Research (Worthington, Chen, Bansback, Law), School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health (Chan), McGill University, Montréal, Que
| | - Fiona K I Chan
- Pharmacy Program (Laba), Clinical and Health Sciences Unit, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; The Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia; Centre for Health Services and Policy Research (Worthington, Chen, Bansback, Law), School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health (Chan), McGill University, Montréal, Que
| | - Nick Bansback
- Pharmacy Program (Laba), Clinical and Health Sciences Unit, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; The Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia; Centre for Health Services and Policy Research (Worthington, Chen, Bansback, Law), School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health (Chan), McGill University, Montréal, Que
| | - Michael R Law
- Pharmacy Program (Laba), Clinical and Health Sciences Unit, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia; The Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation (Laba), University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia; Centre for Health Services and Policy Research (Worthington, Chen, Bansback, Law), School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health (Chan), McGill University, Montréal, Que
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van Bodegom-Vos L, Marang-van de Mheen P. Reducing Low-Value Care: Uncertainty as Crucial Cross-Cutting Theme Comment on "Key Factors That Promote Low-Value Care: Views of Experts From the United States, Canada, and the Netherlands". Int J Health Policy Manag 2022; 11:1964-1966. [PMID: 35297239 PMCID: PMC9808241 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2022.7027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Low-value care is increasingly recognized as a global problem that places strain on healthcare systems and has no quick fix. Verkerk et al have identified key factors promoting low-value care on a national level, proposed strategies to address these and create a healthcare system facilitating delivery of high-value care. In this commentary, we reflect on the results of Verkerk et al and argue that uncertainty has a crucial role when it comes to reducing low-value care. This uncertainty is reflected in lack of a shared view between stakeholders, with clear criteria and thresholds on what constitutes low-value care, and as cross-cutting theme related to the key factors identified. We suggest to work on such a shared view of low-value care and - different from implementation efforts - to explicitly address uncertainty and its driving cognitive biases grounded in human decision-making psychology, to reduce low-value care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leti van Bodegom-Vos
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Hartvigsen J, Kamper SJ, French SD. Low-value care in musculoskeletal health care: Is there a way forward? Pain Pract 2022; 22 Suppl 2:65-70. [PMID: 36109843 PMCID: PMC9545107 DOI: 10.1111/papr.13142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-value care that wastes resources and harms patients is prevalent in health systems everywhere. METHODS As part of an invited keynote presentation at the Pain in Motion IV conference held in Maastricht, Holland, in May 2022, we reviewed evidence for low-value care in musculoskeletal conditions and discussed possible solutions. RESULTS Drivers of low-value care are diverse and affect patients, clinicians, and health systems everywhere. We show that low-value care for back pian, neck pain, and osteoarthritis is prevalent in all professional groups involved in caring for people who seek care for these conditions. Implementation efforts that aim to reverse low-value care seem to work better if designed using established conceptual and theoretical frameworks. CONCLUSION Low-value care is prevalent in the care of people with musculoskeletal conditions. Reducing low-value care requires behaviour change among patients and clinicians as well as in health systems. There is evidence that behaviour change can be facilitated through good conceptual and theoretical frameworks but not convincing evidence that it changes patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Hartvigsen
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Center for Muscle and Joint Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark.,Chiropractic Knowledge Hub, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Steven J Kamper
- School of Health Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Simon D French
- Department of Chiropractic, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Cuérel M, Raetzo MA, Selby K, Kherad O. General practitioner agreement and adherence to the Swiss Choosing wisely top 5 list: A cross-sectional survey. Eur J Intern Med 2022; 102:136-137. [PMID: 35465972 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2022.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mae Cuérel
- Haute Ecole Spécialisée de Suisse Occidentale (HES-SO - HEIG-VD), Switzerland
| | | | - Kevin Selby
- Unisanté and University of Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Omar Kherad
- Delta network, Health Maintenance Organization, Geneva, Switzerland; Internal medicine division, Hospital de la Tour and University of Geneva, Switzerland.
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Kherad O, Bottequin E, Steiner D, Alibert A, Eurin R, Bothorel H. Implementing a Multifaceted Intervention among Internal Medicine Residents with Audit and Educative Data Feedback Significantly Reduces Low-Value Care in Hospitalized Patients. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11092435. [PMID: 35566562 PMCID: PMC9104072 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11092435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The dissemination of recommendations on low-value care alone may not lead to physicians’ behavioral changes. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a multifaceted behavioral intervention among internal medicine residents could reduce low-value care in hospitalized patients. Methods: A pre–post quality improvement intervention was conducted at the Internal Medicine Division of La Tour hospital (Geneva, Switzerland) from May 2020 to October 2021. The intervention period (3 months) consisted of a multifaceted informational intervention with audits and educative feedback about low-value care. The pre- and post-intervention periods including the same six calendar months were compared in terms of number of blood samples per patient day, prescription rates of benzodiazepines (BZDs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), as well as safety indicators including potentially avoidable readmissions, premature deaths and complications. results: A total of 3400 patients were included in this study; 1095 (32.2%) and 1155 (34.0%) were, respectively, hospitalized during the pre- and post-intervention periods. Patient characteristics were comparable between the two periods. Only the number of blood tests per patient day and the BZD prescription rate at discharge were significantly reduced in the post-intervention phase (pre: 0.54 ± 0.43 vs. post: 0.49 ± 0.60, p ≤ 0.001; pre: 4.2% vs. post: 1.7%, p = 0.003, respectively). PPI prescription rates remained comparable. Safety indicators analyses revealed no significant differences between the two periods of interest. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate a modest but statistically significant effect of a multifaceted educative intervention in reducing the number of blood tests and the BZD prescription rate at discharge in hospitalized patients. Limiting low-value services is very challenging and additional long-term interventions are necessary for wider implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Kherad
- Internal Medicine Division, Hôpital de la Tour and University of Geneva, 1217 Geneva, Switzerland
- Business Intelligence Unit, Hôpital de la Tour, 1217 Geneva, Switzerland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-227196099
| | - Ezra Bottequin
- Business Intelligence Unit, Hôpital de la Tour, 1217 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - Dorsaf Steiner
- Quality Department, Hôpital de la Tour, 1217 Geneva, Switzerland; (D.S.); (A.A.)
| | - Axelle Alibert
- Quality Department, Hôpital de la Tour, 1217 Geneva, Switzerland; (D.S.); (A.A.)
- General Management Department, Hôpital de la Tour, 1217 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - Rodolphe Eurin
- General Management Department, Hôpital de la Tour, 1217 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - Hugo Bothorel
- Research Department, Hôpital de la Tour, 1217 Geneva, Switzerland;
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Piessens V, Delvaux N, Heytens S, Aertgeerts B, De Sutter A. Downstream activities after laboratory testing in primary care: an exploratory outcome of the ELMO cluster randomised trial (Electronic Laboratory Medicine Ordering with evidence-based order sets in primary care). BMJ Open 2022; 12:e059261. [PMID: 35379642 PMCID: PMC8981323 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the rate and type of downstream activities (DAs) after laboratory testing in primary care, with a specific focus on check-up laboratory panels, and to explore the effect of a clinical decision support system (CDSS) for laboratory ordering on these DAs. DESIGN Cluster randomised clinical trial. SETTING 72 primary care practices in Belgium, with 272 general practitioners (GPs), randomly assigned to the intervention arm or the control arm. PARTICIPANTS The study included 10 270 lab panels from 9683 primary care patients (women 55.1%, mean age 56.5). All adult patients who consulted one of the participating GPs during the trial period and needed a laboratory exam were eligible for participation. INTERVENTIONS GPs in the intervention group used a CDSS integrated into their online laboratory ordering system, while GPs in the control arm used their lab ordering system as usual. The trial duration was 6 months, with another 6 months follow-up. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES This publication reports on the exploratory outcome of DAs after an initial laboratory exam and the effect of the CDSS on these DAs. RESULTS 19.7% of all laboratory panels resulted in further diagnostic procedures (95% CI 18.9% to 20.5%) and 19% (95% CI 18.2% to 19.7%) in treatment changes. Check-up laboratory exams showed similar rates of DAs, with 17.5% (95% CI 13.8% to 21.2%) diagnostic DAs and 18.9% (95% CI 13.9% to 23.9%) treatment changes. Using the CDSS resulted in a significant reduction in downstream referrals (-2.4%; 95% CI -4.2% to -0.6%; p=0008), imaging and endoscopies (-0.9%; 95% CI -1.6% to -0.1%; p=0026) and treatment changes (-5.4%; 95% CI -9.5% to -1.2%; p=0.01). CONCLUSION This is the largest study so far to examine DAs after laboratory testing. It shows that almost one in three laboratory exams leads to further DAs, even in check-up panels. Using a CDSS for laboratory orders may reduce the rate of some DAs. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02950142.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veerle Piessens
- Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Gent, Belgium
| | | | - Stefan Heytens
- Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Gent, Belgium
| | | | - An De Sutter
- Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Gent, Belgium
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Walderhaug KE, Nyquist MK, Mjølstad BP. GP strategies to avoid imaging overuse. A qualitative study in Norwegian general practice. Scand J Prim Health Care 2022; 40:48-56. [PMID: 35188069 PMCID: PMC9090343 DOI: 10.1080/02813432.2022.2036480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to identify general practitioners' (GPs) strategies to avoid unnecessary diagnostic imaging when encountering patients with such expectations and to explore how patients experience these strategies. DESIGN, SETTING AND SUBJECTS We conducted a qualitative study that combined observations of consultations and interviews with GPs and patients. A total of 24 patients visiting nine different GPs in two Norwegian urban areas were included in the study. Of these, 12 consultations were considered suitable for studying GP strategies and were therefore selected for a more thorough analysis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES GPs' communication strategies to avoid unnecessary medical imaging and patients' experiences with such strategies. RESULTS Five categories of strategies were identified: (1) wait and see - or suggest an alternative; (2) the art of rejection; (3) seek support from a professional authority; (4) partnership and shared decision-making and (5) reassurance, normalisation and recognition. The GPs often used multiple strategies. Factors related to a long-term doctor-patient relationship seemed to influence both communication and how both parties experienced the decision. Three important factors were evident: the patient trusted the doctor, the doctor knew the patient's medical history and the doctor knew the patient as a person. The patients seemed to be generally satisfied with the outcomes of the consultations. CONCLUSION GPs largely combine different strategies when meeting patients' expectations of diagnostic imaging that are not strictly medically indicated. Continuity of the doctor-patient relationship with good personal knowledge and trust between doctor and patient appeared crucial for patients to accept the doctors' decisions.Key pointsGPs usually combine a broad range of strategies to avoid unnecessary medical imagingThe patients appeared generally satisfied regardless of the strategy the strategy used by the GPs and even where their referral request were rejectedFactors related to a long-term doctor-patient relationship appeared decisive.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bente Prytz Mjølstad
- General Practice Research Unit, Department of Public Health and Nursing, NTNU, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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18
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Parker G, Kastner M, Born K, Shahid N, Berta W. Understanding low-value care and associated de-implementation processes: a qualitative study of Choosing Wisely Interventions across Canadian hospitals. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:92. [PMID: 35057805 PMCID: PMC8776509 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07485-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Choosing Wisely (CW) is an international movement comprised of campaigns in more than 20 countries to reduce low-value care (LVC). De-implementation, the reduction or removal of a healthcare practice that offers little to no benefit or causes harm, is an emerging field of research. Little is known about the factors which (i) sustain LVC; and (ii) the magnitude of the problem of LVC. In addition, little is known about the processes of de-implementation, and if and how these processes differ from implementation endeavours. The objective of this study was to explicate the myriad factors which impact the processes and outcomes of de-implementation initiatives that are designed to address national Choosing Wisely campaign recommendations. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals implementing Choosing Wisely Canada recommendations in healthcare settings in four provinces. The interview guide was developed using concepts from the literature and the Implementation Process Model (IPM) as a framework. All interviews were conducted virtually, recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. FINDINGS Seventeen Choosing Wisely team members were interviewed. Participants identified numerous provider factors, most notably habit, which sustain LVC. Contrary to reporting in recent studies, the majority of LVC in the sample was not 'patient facing'; therefore, patients were not a significant driver for the LVC, nor a barrier to reducing it. Participants detailed aspects of the magnitude of the problems of LVC, providing insight into the complexities and nuances of harm, resources and prevalence. Harm from potential or common infections, reactions, or overtreatment was viewed as the most significant types of harm. Unique factors influencing the processes of de-implementation reported were: influence of Choosing Wisely campaigns, availability of data, lack of targets and hard-coded interventions. CONCLUSIONS This study explicates factors ranging from those which impact the maintenance of LVC to factors that impact the success of de-implementation interventions intended to reduce them. The findings draw attention to the significance of unintentional factors, highlight the importance of understanding the impact of harm and resources to reduce LVC and illuminate the overstated impact of patients in de-implementation literature. These findings illustrate the complexities of de-implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian Parker
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, ON M5T 3M6 Canada
| | - Monika Kastner
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, ON M5T 3M6 Canada
- North York General Hospital, Centre for Research and Innovation, 4001, Leslie Street, Toronto, ON M2K 1E1 Canada
| | - Karen Born
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, ON M5T 3M6 Canada
| | - Nida Shahid
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, ON M5T 3M6 Canada
| | - Whitney Berta
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, ON M5T 3M6 Canada
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Parker G, Shahid N, Rappon T, Kastner M, Born K, Berta W. Using theories and frameworks to understand how to reduce low-value healthcare: a scoping review. Implement Sci 2022; 17:6. [PMID: 35057832 PMCID: PMC8772067 DOI: 10.1186/s13012-021-01177-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is recognition that the overuse of procedures, testing, and medications constitutes low-value care which strains the healthcare system and, in some circumstances, can cause unnecessary stress and harm for patients. Initiatives across dozens of countries have raised awareness about the harms of low-value care but have had mixed success and the levels of reductions realized have been modest. Similar to the complex drivers of implementation processes, there is a limited understanding of the individual and social behavioral aspects of de-implementation. While researchers have begun to use theory to elucidate the dynamics of de-implementation, the research remains largely atheoretical. The use of theory supports the understanding of how and why interventions succeed or fail and what key factors predict success. The purpose of this scoping review was to identify and characterize the use of theoretical approaches used to understand and/or explain what influences efforts to reduce low-value care. METHODS We conducted a review of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Scopus databases from inception to June 2021. Building on previous research, 43 key terms were used to search the literature. The database searches identified 1998 unique articles for which titles and abstracts were screened for inclusion; 232 items were selected for full-text review. RESULTS Forty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Over half of the included articles were published in the last 2 years. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) was the most commonly used determinant framework (n = 22). Of studies that used classic theories, the majority used the Theory of Planned Behavior (n = 6). For implementation theories, Normalization Process Theory and COM-B were used (n = 7). Theories or frameworks were used primarily to identify determinants (n = 37) and inform data analysis (n = 31). Eleven types of low-value care were examined in the included studies, with prescribing practices (e.g., overuse, polypharmacy, and appropriate prescribing) targeted most frequently. CONCLUSIONS This scoping review provides a rigorous, comprehensive, and extensive synthesis of theoretical approaches used to understand and/or explain what factors influence efforts to reduce low-value care. The results of this review can provide direction and insight for future primary research to support de-implementation and the reduction of low-value care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian Parker
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M6 Canada
| | - Nida Shahid
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M6 Canada
| | - Tim Rappon
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M6 Canada
| | - Monika Kastner
- Centre for Research and Innovation, North York General Hospital, 4001, Leslie Street, Toronto, Ontario M2K 1E1 Canada
| | - Karen Born
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M6 Canada
| | - Whitney Berta
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3M6 Canada
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20
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VanSpronsen AD, Villatoro V, Zychla L, Wang Y, Turley E, Ohinmaa A, Yuan Y. A New List for Choosing Wisely Canada From the "Hidden Profession" of Medical Laboratory Science. Am J Clin Pathol 2022; 157:40-46. [PMID: 34302336 DOI: 10.1093/ajcp/aqab094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Choosing Wisely Canada (CWC) publishes practices that may contribute to medical overuse and patient harm. Many practices concern laboratory testing, but the recommendations are often written for the test-ordering professionals. Our objective was to develop a list for CWC reflecting the scope of practice of nonpathologist medical laboratory professionals (MLPs). METHODS We used a national survey, a convention session, and a panel of MLPs from across Canada to generate content for the CWC list. We used a modified Delphi process to identify the most important items and scoping reviews to gather evidence supporting each item. RESULTS We identified 95 potential CWC list items. After 2 Delphi rounds, there was little movement in the top items. Scoping reviews revealed varying degrees of evidentiary support, which influenced the composition of the final list of 7 CWC items submitted. Three of the final recommendations address ways MLPs preserve the status quo with respect to overutilization of laboratory tests by other health care professionals. The remaining recommendations prompt MLPs to exert clinical judgment in specific scenarios, particularly where they can impact blood collection volumes. CONCLUSIONS This work brings a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the relationships among MLPs, patient safety, and resource waste.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura Zychla
- Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science, Hamilton, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Yan Yuan
- University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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21
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Jankauskaite L, Grechukha Y, Kjær KA, Mamenko M, Nakstad B, Romankevych I, Schnyder S, Selvakumar J, Trapani S, Daniliaviciene S, Valiulis A, Wyder C, Størdal K. Overuse of medical care in paediatrics: A survey from five countries in the European Academy of Pediatrics. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:945540. [PMID: 36177454 PMCID: PMC9513058 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.945540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Studies and initiatives such as the "Choosing wisely" (CW) campaign emphasise evidence-based investigations and treatment to avoid overdiagnosis and overtreatment. The perception of the extent of medical overactivity among professionals and drivers behind are not well studied in the paediatric field. AIM We aimed to investigate the physicians' opinion and clarify the main drivers regarding medical overactivity in member countries of the European Academy of Paediatrics (EAP). METHODS In this study, paediatricians, paediatric residents, primary care paediatricians, and family doctors treating children were surveyed in Norway, Lithuania, Ukraine, Italy, and Switzerland. Over-investigation was defined as "diagnostic work-up or referral that is unlikely to provide information which is relevant for a patient" and overtreatment was defined as "treatment that does not benefit or can harm more than benefit the patient." The original questionnaire was developed in 2018 by a working group from the Norwegian Paediatric Association. RESULTS Overall, 1,416 medical doctors participated in the survey, ranging from 144 in Lithuania to 337 in Switzerland. 83% stated that they experienced over-investigation/overtreatment, and 81% perceived this as a problem. The majority (83%) perceived expectations from family and patients as the most important driver for overtreatment in their country. Other drivers for overuse were use of national guidelines/recommendations, worry for reactions, and reduction of uncertainty. CONCLUSION This is the first study investigating knowledge and attitude toward medical overactivity in European countries. Despite different cultural and economic environments, the patterns and drivers of increased investigations and medicalisation are similar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Jankauskaite
- Department of Paediatrics, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania.,Institute of Physiology and Pharmacology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania.,European Academy of Paediatrics, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yevgenii Grechukha
- European Academy of Paediatrics, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Paediatric Infectious Diseases and Paediatric Immunology, Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | | | - Marina Mamenko
- European Academy of Paediatrics, Brussels, Belgium.,Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine.,Ukrainian Academy of Paediatric Specialties, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Britt Nakstad
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Health, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Ivanna Romankevych
- European Academy of Paediatrics, Brussels, Belgium.,Ukrainian Academy of Paediatric Specialties, Kyiv, Ukraine.,Miller School of Medicine, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
| | - Sara Schnyder
- European Academy of Paediatrics, Brussels, Belgium.,Division of Paediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Joel Selvakumar
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Health, Akershus University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sandra Trapani
- European Academy of Paediatrics, Brussels, Belgium.,Paediatric Unit, Department of Health Sciences, Meyer Children's Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sandra Daniliaviciene
- Karoliniskiu Policlinic, Vilnius, Lithuania.,Clinic of Children's Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Medical Faculty of Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Arunas Valiulis
- European Academy of Paediatrics, Brussels, Belgium.,Clinic of Children's Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Medical Faculty of Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania.,Human Ecology Research Group, Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Medical Faculty of Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Corinne Wyder
- European Academy of Paediatrics, Brussels, Belgium.,Paediatric Praxis Kurwerk, Burgdorf, Switzerland
| | - Ketil Størdal
- European Academy of Paediatrics, Brussels, Belgium.,Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Paediatric Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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22
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Álamo-Junquera D, Urrutia A. [Appropriateness as a quality dimension and practices that generate value]. J Healthc Qual Res 2021; 37:1-2. [PMID: 34903503 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhqr.2021.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D Álamo-Junquera
- Servicio de Medicina Preventiva, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, España; Comité MAPAC, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, España; Departamento de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, España.
| | - A Urrutia
- Comité MAPAC, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, España; Medicina Interna, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
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23
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Mira Solves JJ. [The time for high value practices]. Med Clin (Barc) 2021; 157:480-482. [PMID: 34598793 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2021.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Dora JM, Biscolla RPM, Caldas G, Cerutti J, Graf H, Hoff AO, Mazeto GMFS, Magalhães PKR, Mesa CO, Scheffel RS, de Fatima Dos Santos Teixeira P, Vaisman F, Villagelin D, Maia AL. Choosing Wisely for Thyroid Conditions: Recommendations of the Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism. ARCHIVES OF ENDOCRINOLOGY AND METABOLISM 2021; 65:248-252. [PMID: 33587833 PMCID: PMC10065321 DOI: 10.20945/2359-3997000000323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Choosing Wisely (CW) is an initiative that aims to advance the dialogue between physicians and patients about low-value health interventions. Given that thyroid conditions are frequent in clinical practice, we aimed to develop an evidence-based list of thyroid CW recommendations. METHODS The Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism (SBEM) named a Task Force to conduct the initiative. The Task Force work was based on an electronic Delphi approach. The 10 recommendations that received the highest scores by the Task Force were submitted for voting by all SBEM associates. The 5 recommendations that received the highest scores by SBEM associates are presented herein. RESULTS The Task Force was composed of 14 thyroidologists from 10 tertiary-care, teaching-based Brazilian institutions. The brainstorming/ideation phase resulted in 69 recommendations. After the removal of duplicates and recommendations that did not adhere to the initiative's scope, 35 remained. Then the Task Force voted to attribute a grade (0 [lowest agreement] to 10 [highest agreement]) for each recommendation. The 10 recommendations that received the highest scores by the Task Force were submitted to all SBEM associates. A total of 683 associates voted electronically, attributing a grade (0 to 10) for each recommendation. The 5 recommendations that received the highest scores by the SBEM associates compose our final list. CONCLUSION A set of recommendations to avoid unnecessary medical tests, treatments, or procedures for thyroid conditions are offered with a transparent methodology. This initiative aims to foster productive interactions between physicians and patients, stimulating shared decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Miguel Dora
- Unidade de Tireoide do Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre e Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil,
| | | | - Gustavo Caldas
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Janete Cerutti
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo (Unifesp), São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Hans Graf
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brasil
| | - Ana O Hoff
- Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo (ICESP), São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Glaucia M F S Mazeto
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | | | - Cleo Otaviano Mesa
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brasil
| | - Rafael Selbach Scheffel
- Unidade de Tireoide do Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre e Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | | | | | - Danilo Villagelin
- Faculdade de Medicina da Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brasil
| | - Ana Luiza Maia
- Unidade de Tireoide do Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre e Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
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Tu LH, Venkatesh AK, Malhotra A, Taylor RA, Sheth KN, Forman HP, Yaesoubi R. Scenarios to improve CT head utilization in the emergency department delineated by critical results reporting. Emerg Radiol 2021; 29:81-88. [PMID: 34617133 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-021-01947-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Increasing use of advanced imaging in the emergency department (ED) has resulted in higher cost without better outcomes. Our goal was to evaluate the yield of CT head exams by scenario to guide efforts at improving patient selection. METHODS We performed a retrospective study at an academic medical center over 4 years (1/1/2014-12/31/2017). The chief complaint, imaging order, and exam result text were obtained for all adult ED encounters. For the 50 most common chief complaints leading to CT head exams, the ratio of exams to total encounters and ratio of critical results to imaging studies were calculated. Significant difference in "yield" was assessed via binomial test. RESULTS Over 708,145 adult ED encounters, 58,783 CT head exams were ordered, with an overall critical result yield of 8.0%. The three most common chief complaints had higher yield (p < 0.05): altered mental status (9.8%), fall (9.7%), and new headache (10.1%). Lower yield (p < 0.05) was found for 19 chief complaints: dizziness (6.2%), falls in patients > 65 years old (7.1%), syncope (5.3%), seizure with known epilepsy (4.8%), chest pain (3.7%), head injury (4.9%), headache re-evaluation (7.0%), alcohol intoxication (2.5%), fatigue (6.5%), headache-recurrent or in the setting of known migraines (5.2%), hypertension (4.4%), lethargy (5.8%), loss of consciousness (5.3%), migraine (3.2%), psychiatric evaluation (2.9%), near syncope (4.6%), drug problem (3.1%), symptomatically decreased blood sugar (3.2%), and suicidal (1.7%). CONCLUSION Our study provides a priority list of low yield scenarios of CT head use for improvement of patient selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long H Tu
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Arjun K Venkatesh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ajay Malhotra
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Richard A Taylor
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kevin N Sheth
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Howard P Forman
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Reza Yaesoubi
- Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
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Nelson H. Reducing Cost of Care Through Deimplementation of Surgical Overtreatment. ANNALS OF SURGERY OPEN 2021; 2:e089. [PMID: 37635824 PMCID: PMC10455373 DOI: 10.1097/as9.0000000000000089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Nelson
- From the Division of Research and Optimal Patient Care, Cancer Department, American College of Surgeons, Chicago, IL
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27
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Davey MG, Ryan ÉJ, Burke D, McKevitt K, McAnena PF, Kerin MJ, Lowery AJ. Evaluating the Clinical Utility of Routine Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy and the Value of Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Elderly Patients Diagnosed With Oestrogen Receptor Positive, Clinically Node Negative Breast Cancer. BREAST CANCER-BASIC AND CLINICAL RESEARCH 2021; 15:11782234211022203. [PMID: 34177266 PMCID: PMC8207274 DOI: 10.1177/11782234211022203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) provides staging information and guides adjuvant therapy in early breast cancer (EBC). Routine SLNB in oncogeriatricians with low-risk EBC remains controversial. Aims To evaluate axillary management in elderly patients diagnosed with oestrogen receptor positive (ER+), clinically lymph node negative (cLN-) EBC, and to assess whether SLNB affects further axillary management or adjuvant chemotherapy (ACTX) decision making. Methods Female patients aged > 65 years, diagnosed with ER+, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 negative (HER2-), and cLN- breast cancer (BC), who underwent surgery and SLNB were included. Clinicopathological predictors of ACTX and completion axillary lymph node dissection (CALND) were determined. Kaplan-Meier analyses assessed survival outcomes. Results A total of 253 patients were included (median age: 72 years, range: 66-90), all underwent SLNB; 50 (19.8%) had lymphatic metastasis on SLNB (SLNB+). Of these, 19 proceeded to CALND (38.0%), 10 (52.6%) of whom had further axillary disease (ALND+). 20 of the 50 SLNB+ patients received ACTX (40.0%) as did 31 of the 203 SLNB- patients (15.2%) (P < .001). Oncotype DX (ODX) testing was utilized in 82 cases (32.8%). Younger age (P < .001), SLNB+ (P < .001) and ODX score (P = .003) were all associated with ACTX prescription. ODX > 25 (OR: 4.37, 95% CI: 1.38-13.80, P = .012) independently predicted receiving ACTX. Receiving ACTX and proceeding to CALND did not improve disease-free (P = .485 and P = .345) or overall survival (P = .981 and P = .646). Conclusions Routine SNLB may not be necessary in elderly patients diagnosed with ER+, cLN- EBC. Future oncogeriatric practice is likely to see genomic testing guiding ACTX prescription in this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew G Davey
- Department of Surgery, Galway University Hospitals, Galway, Republic of Ireland.,Discipline of Surgery, Lambe Institute for Translational Research, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Republic of Ireland
| | - Éanna J Ryan
- Department of Surgery, Galway University Hospitals, Galway, Republic of Ireland
| | - Daniel Burke
- Department of Surgery, Galway University Hospitals, Galway, Republic of Ireland
| | - Kevin McKevitt
- Department of Surgery, Galway University Hospitals, Galway, Republic of Ireland
| | - Peter F McAnena
- Department of Surgery, Galway University Hospitals, Galway, Republic of Ireland.,Discipline of Surgery, Lambe Institute for Translational Research, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Republic of Ireland
| | - Michael J Kerin
- Department of Surgery, Galway University Hospitals, Galway, Republic of Ireland.,Discipline of Surgery, Lambe Institute for Translational Research, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Republic of Ireland
| | - Aoife J Lowery
- Department of Surgery, Galway University Hospitals, Galway, Republic of Ireland.,Discipline of Surgery, Lambe Institute for Translational Research, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Republic of Ireland
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Morris RL, Ruddock A, Gallacher K, Rolfe C, Giles S, Campbell S. Developing a patient safety guide for primary care: A co-design approach involving patients, carers and clinicians. Health Expect 2021; 24:42-52. [PMID: 33142022 PMCID: PMC7879544 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients and carers should be actively involved in patient safety and empowered to use person-centred approaches where they are asked to both identify safety concerns and partner in preventing them. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to co-design a patient safety guide for primary care (PSG-PC) to support patients and carers to address key patient safety questions and identify key points where they can make their care safer. The objectives were to i) identify when and how patients and carers can be involved in primary care patient safety, and ii) identify the relevant information to include in the PSG-PC. DESIGN An experience-based co-design approach. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS We conducted three workshops with patients, carers, community pharmacists and general practitioners to develop and refine the PSG-PC. RESULTS Participants identified both explicit and implicit issues of primary care patient safety especially relating to technical and relational components of involving patients and carers. The importance of communication, understanding roles and responsibilities, and developing partnerships between patients and health-care providers were considered essential for actively involving patients in patient safety. Co-developing the PSG-PC provided insight to improve care to develop the PSG-PC. DISCUSSION The PSG-PC is the first guide to be developed for primary care, co-designed with patients, carers, general practitioners and pharmacists. The PSG-PC will support patients and carers to partner with health-care professionals to improve patient safety addressing international and national priorities to continuously improve patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L. Morris
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research CentreFaculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthDivision of Population HealthHealth Services Research and Primary CareSchool of Health SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUnited Kingdom
| | - Angela Ruddock
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research CentreFaculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthDivision of Population HealthHealth Services Research and Primary CareSchool of Health SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUnited Kingdom
| | - Kay Gallacher
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research CentreFaculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthDivision of Population HealthHealth Services Research and Primary CareSchool of Health SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUnited Kingdom
| | - Carly Rolfe
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research CentreFaculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthDivision of Population HealthHealth Services Research and Primary CareSchool of Health SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUnited Kingdom
| | - Sally Giles
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research CentreFaculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthDivision of Population HealthHealth Services Research and Primary CareSchool of Health SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUnited Kingdom
| | - Stephen Campbell
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research CentreFaculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthDivision of Population HealthHealth Services Research and Primary CareSchool of Health SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUnited Kingdom
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Calder LA, Neilson HK, Whyte EM, Ji J, Bhatia RS. Medico-Legal Cases Involving Cardiologists and Cardiac Test Underuse or Overuse. CJC Open 2020; 3:434-441. [PMID: 34027346 PMCID: PMC8129482 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2020.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Evidence-based campaigns are available to support appropriate diagnostic testing in cardiology, but medico-legal concerns can impede implementation. Methods We conducted a retrospective descriptive analysis of medico-legal cases (civil legal, regulatory authority, hospital matters) involving cardiologists in Canada. For eligibility, cases must have closed at the Canadian Medical Protective Association between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2018. We defined test underuse and overuse using criticisms in the medico-legal record from peer experts, regulatory authorities, or hospitals. We used a contributing factors framework and descriptive statistics for analysis. Results From 2009 to 2018, the Canadian Medical Protective Association closed 60,598 cases with 368 (0.6%) involving a cardiologist. Within those cases, there was no criticism of cardiac diagnostic test overuse and 15 cases (4.1%) with criticism of underuse (tests not ordered, not expedited, delayed). In 12 of 15 cases of underuse (80.0%), the patient experienced severe harm or death. Of 8 civil legal cases, 6 were decided in favour of the plaintiff (75.0%) and 2 were dismissed by consent before proceeding to trial (25.0%). Decisions on regulatory authority matters did not favour the cardiologist (7 of 7 cases). In all cases of underuse, there was need for focused testing to investigate new or worsening symptoms. The most common contributing factors included clinical decision-making, situational awareness, and communication with teams and patients. Conclusions Medico-legal cases involving cardiologists and the overuse or underuse of cardiac diagnostic tests were extremely rare in Canada, despite the potential for harm. The criticisms of cardiac diagnostic test underuse related to issues with diagnosing symptomatic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A. Calder
- Medical Care Analytics, Canadian Medical Protective Association, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Corresponding author: Dr Lisa A. Calder, Canadian Medical Protective Association, 875 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario K1S 5P1, Canada. Tel.: +1-613-725-2000; fax: +1-613-725-1300.
| | - Heather K. Neilson
- Medical Care Analytics, Canadian Medical Protective Association, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eileen M. Whyte
- Medical Care Analytics, Canadian Medical Protective Association, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jun Ji
- Medical Care Analytics, Canadian Medical Protective Association, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - R. Sacha Bhatia
- Women’s College Hospital Institute for Health Systems Solutions and Virtual Care, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Indications and outcome in surgically treated asymptomatic meningiomas: a single-center case-control study. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2020; 162:2155-2163. [PMID: 32016587 PMCID: PMC7415028 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-020-04244-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many meningiomas are detected incidentally and remain asymptomatic until intervention. The goal of this study was to describe the management and outcome in this group of surgically treated asymptomatic meningiomas. METHODS From 2004 to 2017, 45 patients with asymptomatic meningioma were surgically treated at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, and their medical records and imaging data were analyzed. The asymptomatic cases were matched with symptomatic ones with respect to age at diagnosis, location, WHO (World Health Organization) grade, and Simpson grade. RESULTS Time from diagnosis to surgery differed between the asymptomatic and symptomatic patients (8.6 vs. 1.3 months; p < 0.001). Of symptomatic patients, 32.6% still used anti-epileptic drugs > 1 year after surgery, compared with 7.7% of the asymptomatic (p = 0.003). Thirty-day complication rate was significantly higher among the asymptomatic cases (35.6% vs. 24.4%; 0.001), as well as the proportion of older asymptomatic individuals (> 70 years) experiencing postoperative complication compared with symptomatic patients of the same age group. CONCLUSION As expected, asymptomatic cases had smaller tumors and waited longer for surgery. Surprisingly, complication rate was significantly higher among asymptomatic cases compared with their symptomatic control. Taken into account that many asymptomatic tumors are removed surgically due to patient's wish, one might suggest a more restrictive approach, especially in the elderly.
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Rozbroj T, Haas R, O'Connor DA, Thomas R, McCaffery K, Carter S, Buchbinder R. How do patients and the public understand overtesting and overdiagnosis? A protocol for a thematic meta-synthesis of qualitative research. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e037283. [PMID: 32636285 PMCID: PMC7342480 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-037283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Examining patient and public understanding of overtesting and overdiagnosis (OverTD) is vital for reducing the burden of OverTD. Studies from disparate contexts, disciplines and focusing on disparate healthcare issues have examined patient and public understanding of OverTD. A synthesis is needed to bring this literature together, examine common themes, strengthen conclusions and identify gaps. This will help steer further research, policy and practice to improve patient and public understanding of OverTD. The objective of this study is to synthesise qualitative research data about patient and public understanding of OverTD. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A thematic meta-synthesis will be used to synthesise primary qualitative research and qualitative components of primary mixed-methods research about patient and public understanding of OverTD. Studies published in English will be included. These will be identified using systematic searches from inception to March 2020 in the Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO and MEDLINE databases. Studies that satisfy eligibility criteria will be assessed for methodological quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist. Thematic meta-synthesis will comprise three stages: (1) line-by-line coding; (2) generation of descriptive themes and (3) generation of analytic themes. Confidence in the synthesis findings will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation Confidence in Evidence (GRADE CERQual) approach. A summary of GRADE CERQual results will be presented alongside the key themes. Study eligibility screening, data extraction, analysis and the CASP and GRADE CERQual assessments will be undertaken independently by two review authors. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval is not required for this secondary analysis of published data. The results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and may be presented in conference papers and elsewhere. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020156838.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Rozbroj
- Monash Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Cabrini Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Cabrini Institute, Cabrini Health, Malvern, Victoria, Australia
| | - Romi Haas
- Monash Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Cabrini Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Cabrini Institute, Cabrini Health, Malvern, Victoria, Australia
| | - Denise A O'Connor
- Monash Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Cabrini Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Cabrini Institute, Cabrini Health, Malvern, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rae Thomas
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kirsten McCaffery
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Stacy Carter
- Australian Centre for Health Engagement, Evidence and Values, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachelle Buchbinder
- Monash Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Cabrini Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Cabrini Institute, Cabrini Health, Malvern, Victoria, Australia
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Størdal K, Wyder C, Trobisch A, Grossman Z, Hadjipanayis A. Overtesting and overtreatment-statement from the European Academy of Paediatrics (EAP). Eur J Pediatr 2019; 178:1923-1927. [PMID: 31506723 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-019-03461-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Child health has improved considerably, partly due to increased availability of appropriate disease surveillance and treatment. Inappropriate testing and treatment may impose a risk. There is a large and unexplained variation in the use of tests and treatments for children between and within countries. This suggests that non-scientific factors determine their use. In an era of increasing availability of health services, pediatricians have an important role in balancing risks and benefits of available tests and treatments. Examples from the medical literature of overtesting and overtreatment challenge us to reconsider current practices. Antibiotic overuse, overtreatment of bronchiolitis, and non-indicated radiological procedures are found in common practice across Europe. Choosing Wisely is an initiative to improve the quality of care by reducing unnecessary testing and treatment.Conclusion: Clinicians have the challenge to find the optimal balance between too much and too little medicine-just appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ketil Størdal
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway. .,Ostfold Hospital Trust, Grålum, Norway.
| | - Corinne Wyder
- Kinderaerzte KurWerk, Poststrasse 9, 3400, Burgdorf, Switzerland.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Trobisch
- Department of Neonatology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Zachi Grossman
- Maccabi Healthcare Services, Pediatric clinic, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Adamos Hadjipanayis
- Department of Paediatrics, Larnaca General Hospital, Larnaca, Cyprus.,Medical School, European University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.,European Academy of Paediatrics, Brussels, Belgium
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Pasqualotto AC, Almeida CS, Kliemann DA, Barcellos GB, Queiroz-Telles F, Abdala E, Resende M, Batista FP, Vidal JE, Rocha J, Raboni SM, Cimerman S, Gales AC. Top 10 evidence-based recommendations from the Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases for the Choosing Wisely Project. Braz J Infect Dis 2019; 23:331-335. [PMID: 31562852 PMCID: PMC9427949 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjid.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The Choosing Wisely Initiative aims to collect statements from medical societies all over the world on medical interventions that result in no benefit to patients, with the potential to cause harm. In this article we present the views of the Diagnostic Laboratory Group at the Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases (SBI). Ten experts from SBI were asked to list 10 diagnostic tests that were perceived as unnecessary in the field of infectious diseases. After voting for the more relevant topics, a questionnaire was sent to all SBI members, in order to select for the most important items. A total of 482 votes were obtained, and the top 10 results are shown in this manuscript. The Choosing Wisely statements of SBI should facilitate clinical practice by optimizing the use of diagnostic resources in the field of infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro C Pasqualotto
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saude de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Guilherme B Barcellos
- Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Choosing Wisely, Brazil
| | | | - Edson Abdala
- Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Filipe P Batista
- Hospital Universitário Oswaldo Cruz, Universidade de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - José E Vidal
- Instituto de Infectologia Emilio Ribas, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Jaime Rocha
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, PR, Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | - Sergio Cimerman
- Instituto de Infectologia Emilio Ribas, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana C Gales
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Raspe H. [The Choosing Wisely Initiative (CWI): Background, aims and problems of a professional campaign against oversupply]. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR EVIDENZ, FORTBILDUNG UND QUALITAT IM GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2017; 129:12-17. [PMID: 29153355 DOI: 10.1016/j.zefq.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The Choosing Wisely Initiative (CWI) started in 2012 follows a proposal by Howard Brody (2010). Using CWI, the US ABIM Foundation continued its work to strengthen medical professionalism. The text describes CWI's development, aims, mission, and dissemination. It discusses some of its limits and problems. An appendix tabulates similarities and differences between CWI and a (2016) subsequent initiative from the German Society of Internal Medicine (DGIM: Klug Entscheiden Empfehlungen/decide wisely recommendations).
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Affiliation(s)
- Heiner Raspe
- Gastwissenschaftler am Institut für Ethik, Geschichte und Theorie der Medizin, Soetenkamp 16, 48149 Münster, Germany.
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