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Endo Y, Tsilimigras DI, Khalil M, Yang J, Woldesenbet S, Sasaki K, Limkemann A, Schenk A, Pawlik TM. The impact of county-level food access on the mortality and post-transplant survival among patients with steatotic liver disease. Surgery 2024:S0039-6060(24)00144-2. [PMID: 38609786 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2024.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of county-level food access on mortality associated with steatotic liver disease, as well as post-liver transplant outcomes among individuals with steatotic liver disease, have not been characterized. METHODS Data on steatotic liver disease-related mortality and outcomes of liver transplant recipients with steatotic liver disease between 2010 and 2020 were obtained from the Centers for Disease Control Prevention mortality as well as the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients databases. These data were linked to the food desert score, defined as the proportion of the total population in each county characterized as having both low income and limited access to grocery stores. RESULTS Among 2,710 counties included in the analytic cohort, median steatotic liver disease-related mortality was 27.3 per 100,000 population (interquartile range 24.9-32.1). Of note, patients residing in counties with high steatotic liver disease death rates were more likely to have higher food desert scores (low: 5.0, interquartile range 3.1-7.8 vs moderate: 6.1, interquartile range, 3.8-9.3 vs high: 7.6, interquartile range 4.1-11.7). Among 28,710 patients who did undergo liver transplantation, 5,310 (18.4%) individuals lived in counties with a high food desert score. Liver transplant recipients who resided in counties with the worst food access were more likely to have a higher body mass index (>35 kg/m2: low food desert score, 17.3% vs highest food desert score, 20.1%). After transplantation, there was no difference in 2-year graft survival relative to county-level food access (food desert score: low: 88.4% vs high: 88.6%; P = .77). CONCLUSION Poor food access was associated with a higher incidence rate of steatotic liver disease-related death, as well as lower utilization of liver transplants. On the other hand, among patients who did receive a liver transplant, there was no difference in 2-year graft survival regardless of food access strata. Policy initiatives should target the expansion of transplantation services to vulnerable communities in which there is a high mortality of steatotic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Endo
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Diamantis I Tsilimigras
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Mujtaba Khalil
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Jason Yang
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Selamawit Woldesenbet
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | | | - Ashley Limkemann
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Austin Schenk
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH.
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Rometsch C, Festl-Wietek T, Bäuerle A, Schweda A, Skoda EM, Schäffeler N, Stengel A, Zipfel S, Teufel M, Herrmann-Werner A. Anxiety and Somatoform Syndromes Predict Transplant-Focused Internet Use in the Course of an Organ Transplantation. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:e1172-e1179. [PMID: 37902962 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0137] [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] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: e-Health interventions are increasing in the field of organ transplantations; however, the literature lacks evidence regarding needs, attitudes, and preferences of organ recipients and donors during the course of an organ transplantation. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 70 subjects were assessed using self-rated and validated questionnaires, such as the PRIME MD Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-D) and the Essen Resource Inventory (ERI). Group differences and a multiple linear regression were also applied. Results: Organ recipients had significantly higher scores for depression (U = 245.00, z = -2.65, p = 0.008, Cohen's d = 0.32), somatoform (U = 224.50, z = -2.99, p = 0.003, Cohen's d = 0.37), and stress syndromes (U = 266.00, z = -2.25, p = 0.008, Cohen's d = 0.27). They also named the internet and apps as resources to find information regarding organ transplants (U = 177.50, z = -2.07, p = 0.017, Cohen's d = 0.28; Z = -2.308, p = 0.021) and preferred to use apps to monitor the physical condition (Z = -2.12, p = 0.034) significantly more than organ donors. Anxiety and somatoform syndromes were significant predictors to search for information regarding the transplant process (F[6,38] = 3.98, p < 0.001; R2 = 0.386). Conclusions: e-Health interventions are promising in accompanying the course of an organ transplant for patients to be informed and educated. Predominantly, potential organ recipients might benefit from apps to record physical parameters. However, anxiety syndromes might hinder patients from searching for information about the transplant process, while somatoform syndromes might enable patients who are searching for such information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Rometsch
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Teresa Festl-Wietek
- TIME-Tübingen Institute for Medical Education, Medical Faculty Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Alexander Bäuerle
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- West German Center for Organ Transplantation, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Adam Schweda
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- West German Center for Organ Transplantation, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Eva Maria Skoda
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- West German Center for Organ Transplantation, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Norbert Schäffeler
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Stengel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stephan Zipfel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Martin Teufel
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR-University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- West German Center for Organ Transplantation, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Anne Herrmann-Werner
- TIME-Tübingen Institute for Medical Education, Medical Faculty Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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3
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Endo Y, Sasaki K, Moazzam Z, Woldesenbet S, Lima HA, Alaimo L, Munir MM, Shaikh CF, Yang J, Azap L, Katayama E, Kitago M, Schenk A, Washburn K, Pawlik TM. Liver transplantation access and outcomes: Impact of variations in liver-specific specialty care. Surgery 2024; 175:868-876. [PMID: 37743104 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2023.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We sought to characterize the impact access to gastroenterologists/hepatologists has on liver transplantation listing, as well as time on the liver transplantation waitlist and post-transplant outcomes. METHODS Liver transplantation registrants aged >18 years between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2019 were identified from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients Standard Analytic Files. The liver transplantation registration ratio was defined as the ratio of liver transplant waitlist registrations in a given county per 1,000 liver-related deaths. RESULTS A total of 150,679 liver transplantation registrants were included. Access to liver transplantation centers and liver-specific specialty physicians varied markedly throughout the United States. Of note, the liver transplantation registration ratio was lower in counties with poor access to liver-specific care versus counties with adequate access (poor access 137.2, interquartile range 117.8-163.2 vs adequate access 157.6, interquartile range 127.3-192.2, P < .001). Among patients referred for liver transplantation, the cumulative incidence of waitlist mortality and post-transplant graft survival was comparable among patients with poor versus adequate access to liver-specific care (both P > .05). Among liver transplantation recipients living in areas with poor access, after controlling for recipient and donor characteristics, cold ischemic time, and model for end-stage liver disease score, the area deprivation index predicted graft survival (referent, low area deprivation index; medium area deprivation index, hazard ratio 1.52, 95% confidence interval 1.03-12.23; high area deprivation index, 1.45, 95% confidence interval 1.01-12.09, both P < .05). CONCLUSION Poor access to liver-specific care was associated with a reduction in liver transplantation registration, and individuals residing in counties with high social deprivation had worse graft survival among patients living in counties with poor access to liver-specific care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Endo
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | | | - Zorays Moazzam
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Selamawit Woldesenbet
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Henrique A Lima
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Laura Alaimo
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Muhammad Musaab Munir
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Chanza F Shaikh
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Jason Yang
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Lovette Azap
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Erryk Katayama
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Minoru Kitago
- Department of Surgery, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Austin Schenk
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Kenneth Washburn
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH.
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4
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Ko D, Dierker J, Stouff R, Senier L. Telehealth Experience Among Liver and Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Mixed Methods Study. Transpl Int 2023; 36:11819. [PMID: 37908673 PMCID: PMC10613656 DOI: 10.3389/ti.2023.11819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Telehealth has become widely available to solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients during the COVID-19 pandemic. While evidence suggests that telehealth serves as an acceptable alternative for most SOT recipients, their satisfaction and its context remain unclear. This study used a mixed methods approach to investigate the perspectives of SOT recipients (i.e., liver, kidney, and simultaneous liver-kidney) on the benefits and disadvantages of telehealth. A total of 252 adult SOT recipients completed an online survey that quantitatively assessed telehealth experience and satisfaction. Fifteen of them further shared their perspectives by participating in either a focus group or individual interview. Approximately 70% of online survey participants had previously used telehealth for their transplant care. The quantitative data documented that, while recipients were mostly satisfied with telehealth, especially with its effectiveness and convenience, they were less satisfied with the reliability of navigating the telehealth system. The qualitative data further showed that telehealth could be less effective for SOT recipients who perceived themselves as clinically and/or socially vulnerable, needed urgent care, and were concerned about privacy. These findings suggest that the plan for using telehealth to provide transplant care should prioritize personalization, considering unique needs and preferences of each SOT recipient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dami Ko
- School of Nursing, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Julia Dierker
- Department of Health Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rebecca Stouff
- Department of Health Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Laura Senier
- Department of Health Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, College of Social Sciences and Humanities, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
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5
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Lim N, Leventhal TM, Thomson MJ, Hassan M, Thompson J, Adams A, Chinnakotla S, Humphreville V, Kandaswamy R, Kirchner V, Pruett TL, Schuller L, McCarty M, Lake J. Protocolized screening and detection of occult alcohol use before and after liver transplant: Lessons learned from a quality improvement initiative. Clin Transplant 2023; 37:e15036. [PMID: 37218656 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.15036] [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: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Detection of alcohol (ETOH) use with biomarkers provides an opportunity to intervene and treat patients with alcohol use disorder before and after liver transplant (LT). We describe our center's experience using urine ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and serum phosphatidylethanol (PEth) in alcohol screening protocols. METHODS Single-center, retrospective review of patients presenting for LT evaluation, patients waitlisted for LT for alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), and patients who received a LT for ALD over a 12-month period, from October 1, 2019 through September 30, 2020. Patients were followed from waitlisting to LT, or for up to 12 months post-LT. We monitored protocol adherence to screening for ETOH use- defined as completion of all possible tests over the follow-up period- at the initial LT visit, while on the LT waitlist and after LT. RESULTS During the study period, 227 patients were evaluated for LT (median age 57 years, 58% male, 78% white, 54.2% ALD). Thirty-one patients with ALD were placed on the waitlist, and 38 patients underwent LT for ALD during this time period. Protocolized adherence to screening for alcohol use was higher for PEth for all LT evaluation patients (191 [84.1%] vs. 146 [67%] eligible patients, p < .001), in patients with ALD waitlisted for LT (22 [71%] vs. 14 (48%] eligible patients, p = .04) and after LT for ALD, 20 (33 [86.8%] vs. 20 [52.6%] eligible patients, p < .01). Few patients with a positive test in any group completed chemical dependency treatment. CONCLUSIONS When screening for ETOH use in pre- and post-LT patients, protocol adherence is higher using PEth compared to EtG. While protocolized biomarker screening can detect recurrent ETOH use in this population, engagement of patients into chemical dependency treatment remains challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Lim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - T M Leventhal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - M J Thomson
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - M Hassan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - J Thompson
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - A Adams
- Division of Transplant Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - S Chinnakotla
- Division of Transplant Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - V Humphreville
- Division of Transplant Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - R Kandaswamy
- Division of Transplant Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - V Kirchner
- Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - T L Pruett
- Division of Transplant Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - L Schuller
- University of Minnesota Physicians, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - M McCarty
- Complex Care Analytics, Fairview Health Services, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - J Lake
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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6
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Wang M, Shui AM, Barry F, Verna E, Kent D, Yao F, Seetharaman S, Berry K, Grubbs RK, George G, Huang CY, Duarte-Rojo A, Lai JC. The TeLeFI (Tele-Liver Frailty Index): Development of a novel frailty tool in patients with cirrhosis via telemedicine. Am J Transplant 2023:S1600-6135(23)00409-4. [PMID: 37061188 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajt.2023.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
Frailty is a critical determinant of outcomes in cirrhosis patients. Increasing use of telemedicine has created an unmet need for virtual frailty assessment. We aimed to develop a telemedicine-enabled frailty tool [tele-Liver Frailty Index (TeLeFI)]. Adults with cirrhosis in the liver transplant (LT) setting underwent ambulatory frailty testing with the Liver Frailty Index (LFI) in-person, then virtual administration of: 1) validated surveys [e.g., SARC-F, Duke Activity Status Index (DASI)], 2) chair stands, 3) balance. Two models were selected and internally validated for predicting LFI≥4.4 using: 1) Bayesian information criterion (BIC), 2) C-statistics, and 3) ease of use. Of 145 patients, median [IQR] LFI was 3.7 (3.3-4.2); 15% were frail. Frail (vs. not-frail) patients reported significantly greater impairment on all virtually assessed instruments. We selected 2 parsimonious models: 1) DASI + chair/bed transfer (SARC-F) [BIC 255, C-statistics 0.78], and 2) DASI + chair/bed transfer (SARC-F) + virtually assessed chair stands (BIC 244, C-statistics 0.79). Both models had high C-statistics (0.76-0.78) for predicting frailty. In conclusion, the TeLeFI is a novel tool to pragmatically screen frailty in LT patients via telemedicine and may be used to identify patients who require in-person frailty assessment, more frequent follow-up, or frailty intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Wang
- Department of Medicine, University of California- San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Amy M Shui
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Fawzy Barry
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Elizabeth Verna
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Dorothea Kent
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Frederick Yao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Srilakshmi Seetharaman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Kacey Berry
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Rachel K Grubbs
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Geena George
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Chiung-Yu Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Jennifer C Lai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.
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7
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Henson JB, Wegermann K, Patel YA, Wilder JM, Muir AJ. Access to technology to support telehealth in areas without specialty care for liver disease. Hepatology 2023; 77:176-185. [PMID: 35661393 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Telehealth may be a successful strategy to increase access to specialty care for liver disease, but whether the areas with low access to care and a high burden of liver-related mortality have the necessary technology access to support a video-based telehealth strategy to expand access to care is unknown. APPROACH AND RESULTS Access to liver disease specialty care was defined at the county level as <160.9 km (100 miles) from a liver transplant (LT) center or presence of local gastroenterology (GI). Liver-related mortality rates were compared by access to care, and access to technology was compared by degree of access to care and burden of liver-related mortality. Counties with low access to liver disease specialty care had higher rates of mortality from liver disease, and this was highest in areas both >160.9 km from an LT center and without local GI. These counties were more rural, had higher poverty, and had decreased access to devices and internet at broadband speeds. Technology access was lowest in areas with low access to care and the highest burden of liver-related mortality. CONCLUSIONS Areas with poor access to liver disease specialty care have a greater burden of liver-related mortality, and many of their residents lack access to technology. Therefore, a telehealth strategy based solely on patient device ownership and internet access will exclude a large proportion of individuals in the areas of highest need. Further work should be done at the local and state levels to design optimal strategies to reach their populations of need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline B Henson
- Division of Gastroenterology , Department of Medicine , Duke University , Durham , North Carolina , USA
| | - Kara Wegermann
- Division of Gastroenterology , Department of Medicine , Duke University , Durham , North Carolina , USA
| | - Yuval A Patel
- Division of Gastroenterology , Department of Medicine , Duke University , Durham , North Carolina , USA
| | - Julius M Wilder
- Division of Gastroenterology , Department of Medicine , Duke University , Durham , North Carolina , USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute , Durham , North Carolina , USA
| | - Andrew J Muir
- Division of Gastroenterology , Department of Medicine , Duke University , Durham , North Carolina , USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute , Durham , North Carolina , USA
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8
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Ufere NN, Satapathy N, Philpotts L, Lai JC, Serper M. Financial burden in adults with chronic liver disease: A scoping review. Liver Transpl 2022; 28:1920-1935. [PMID: 35644920 PMCID: PMC9669101 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The economic burden of chronic liver disease is rising; however, the financial impact of chronic liver disease on patients and families has been underexplored. We performed a scoping review to identify studies examining financial burden (patient/family health care expenditures), financial distress (material, behavioral, and psychological consequences of financial burden), and financial toxicity (adverse health outcomes of financial distress) experienced by patients with chronic liver disease and their families. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and the Web of Science online databases for articles published since the introduction of the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score for liver transplantation allocation in February 2002 until July 2021. Final searches were conducted between June and July 2021. Studies were included if they examined the prevalence or impact of financial burden or distress among patients with chronic liver disease and/or their caregivers. A total of 19 observational studies met inclusion criteria involving 24,549 patients and 276 caregivers across 5 countries. High rates of financial burden and distress were reported within the study populations, particularly among patients with hepatic encephalopathy, hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver transplantation recipients. Financial burden and distress were associated with increased pre- and posttransplantation health care utilization and poor health-related quality of life as well as caregiver burden, depression, and anxiety. None of the included studies evaluated interventions to alleviate financial burden and distress. Observational evidence supports the finding that financial burden and distress are underrecognized but highly prevalent among patients with chronic liver disease and their caregivers and are associated with poor health outcomes. There is a critical need for interventions to mitigate financial burden and distress and reduce financial toxicity in chronic liver disease care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nneka N. Ufere
- Liver Center, Gastrointestinal Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Lisa Philpotts
- Treadwell Library, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer C. Lai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Marina Serper
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
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9
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Hartl L, Jachs M, Bauer D, Simbrunner B, Chromy D, Binter T, Steininger L, Schwarz C, Schwarz M, Burghart L, Strassl R, Trauner M, Gschwantler M, Mandorfer M, Reiberger T. HCV hotline facilitates Hepatitis C elimination during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Viral Hepat 2022; 29:1062-1072. [PMID: 36062398 PMCID: PMC9825935 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates healthcare restrictions that also affected ongoing hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination efforts. We assessed the value of a physician-operated HCV hotline on treatment and cure rates throughout the pandemic. All HCV patients undergoing HCV therapy at the Vienna General Hospital from 2019 to 2021 were included. An HCV hotline was established in 2019 and provided services including phone calls, text messages and voicemails. Patients were stratified by date of HCV therapy: 2019 (pre-COVID) vs. 2020/2021 (during-COVID) and use of the HCV hotline: users vs. non-users. Overall, 220 patients were included (pre-COVID: n = 91 vs. during-COVID: n = 129). The prevalence of intravenous drug use (60.5%) and alcohol abuse (24.8%) was high during COVID. During COVID, the number of DAA treatment starts declined by 24.2% (n = 69) in 2020 and by 34.1% (n = 60) in 2021 vs. pre-COVID (n = 91, 100%). Significantly more patients used the HCV hotline during-COVID (95.3%) vs. pre-COVID (65.9%; p < .001). Sustained virologic response (SVR) was 84.6% pre-COVID and 86.0% during-COVID. HCV hotline users achieved higher SVR rates during-COVID (88.2% vs. 33.3%, p = .004), but also pre-COVID (96.7% vs. 61.3%, p < .001) compared with non-users. Considering only patients with completed DAA treatments, SVR rates remained similarly high during-COVID (96.9%) versus pre-COVID (98.1%). HCV treatment initiations decreased during-COVID but importantly, nearly all DAA-treated HCV patients used the HCV hotline during the COVID pandemic. Overall, the SVR rate remained at 88.2% during COVID and was particularly high in HCV phone users-most likely due to facilitation of adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Hartl
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Mathias Jachs
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - David Bauer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Benedikt Simbrunner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - David Chromy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Department of DermatologyMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Teresa Binter
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Lisa Steininger
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Caroline Schwarz
- Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Klinik Ottakring, Wiener GesundheitsverbundViennaAustria
| | - Michael Schwarz
- Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Klinik Ottakring, Wiener GesundheitsverbundViennaAustria
| | - Lukas Burghart
- Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Klinik Ottakring, Wiener GesundheitsverbundViennaAustria
| | - Robert Strassl
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Clinical VirologyMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | | | - Mattias Mandorfer
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Thomas Reiberger
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria,Vienna HIV & Liver Study GroupMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
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10
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A Telemedicine Alternative to the 6-Minute Walk Test Using Personal Activity Trackers in Liver Transplant Candidates. Transplant Direct 2022; 8:e1347. [PMID: 37077732 PMCID: PMC10109156 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000001347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has limited liver transplant (LT) candidates access to clinics. Telehealth methods to assess frailty are needed. We developed a method to estimate the step length of LT candidates, which would permit remotely obtaining the 6-min walk test (6MWT) distance with a personal activity tracker (PAT). Methods 6MWT was performed while candidates wore a PAT. On first 21 subjects (stride cohort), the step length was measured and compared with calculated one (6MWT-distance/6MWT steps). On a second cohort (PAT-6MWT; n = 116), we collected the 6MWT step count and used multivariable models to generate formulas estimating step length. We multiplied the estimated step length times 6MWT steps to estimate the distance and compared it to the measured distance. The liver frailty index (LFI) and 6MWT were used as frailty metrics. Results Measured/calculated step length were highly correlated (ρ = 0.85; P < 0.001) in the stride cohort. In the PAT-6MWT cohort, LFI was the strongest variable associated with step length, along with height, albumin, and large-volume paracentesis (R 2 = 0.58). On a second model without LFI, age, height, albumin, hemoglobin, and large-volume paracentesis were strongly associated with step length (R 2 = 0.45). There was a robust correlation between observed 6MWT and PAT-6MWT utilizing step length equations with (ρ = 0.80; P < 0.001) or without LFI (ρ = 0.75; P < 0.001). Frailty by 6MWT <250 m did not change significantly using the observed (16%) or the with/without LFI-estimated (14%/12%) methods. Conclusions We created a method to obtain 6MWT distance remotely with the use of a PAT. This novel approach opens the possibility of performing telemedicine PAT-6MWT to monitor LT candidates' frailty status.
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11
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Ho C, Serper M. Practical Approach to Starting a Telemedicine Program: Lessons From the Real World. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2022; 19:153-156. [PMID: 35505920 PMCID: PMC9053674 DOI: 10.1002/cld.1174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Content available: Author Interview and Author Audio Recording.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanda Ho
- Department of TransplantationCalifornia Pacific Medical CenterSan FranciscoCA
| | - Marina Serper
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyUniversity of Pennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPAUSA
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12
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Shroff H, Kulik L. Telemedicine for Liver Transplant Evaluations: The Benefits and Risks. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2022; 19:157-160. [PMID: 35505918 PMCID: PMC9053678 DOI: 10.1002/cld.1175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Content available: Author Interview and Author Audio Recording.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hersh Shroff
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of MedicineMcGaw Medical Center at Northwestern UniversityChicagoIL
| | - Laura Kulik
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of MedicineMcGaw Medical Center at Northwestern UniversityChicagoIL
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13
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Fung BM, Perumpail M, Patel YA, Tabibian JH. Telemedicine in Hepatology: Current Applications and Future Directions. Liver Transpl 2022; 28:294-303. [PMID: 34506686 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Telemedicine refers to the use of information and communication technologies for providing health care at a distance. Through the use of telecommunication technologies such as cell phones, computers, and other electronic devices, health care providers are able to conduct patient visits, mentor/train other providers, and monitor patients' chronic diseases remotely, potentially hundreds or thousands of miles away. Over the past 2 decades, the use of telemedicine has grown in the field of hepatology. In this review, we provide a focused primer on telemedicine and its current applications in hepatology. In particular, we discuss the use of telemedicine in the management of chronic hepatitis C, the complications of liver disease, as well as preliver transplantation evaluation and posttransplantation care. In addition, we provide a synopsis of the effect of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the use of telemedicine in hepatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian M Fung
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ.,Banner - University Medical Center Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ
| | | | - Yuval A Patel
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - James H Tabibian
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Olive View - UCLA Medical Center, Sylmar, CA.,David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
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14
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Campagna BR, Tutino R, Stevanovic K, Flood J, Halevi G, Shemesh E, Annunziato RA. Acceleration of mobile health for monitoring post-transplant in the COVID-19 era: Applications for pediatric settings. Pediatr Transplant 2022; 26:e14152. [PMID: 34661316 PMCID: PMC8646582 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and consequent lockdowns, the use of telehealth interventions has rapidly increased both in the general population and among transplant recipients. Among pediatric transplant recipients, this most frequently takes the form of interventions on mobile devices, or mHealth, such as remote visits via video chat or phone, phone-based monitoring, and mobile apps. Telehealth interventions may offer the opportunity to provide care that minimizes many of the barriers of in-person care. METHODS The present review followed the PRISMA guidelines. Sources up until October 2020 were initially identified through searches of PsycInfo® and PubMed® . RESULTS We identified ten papers that reported findings from adult interventions and five studies based in pediatrics. Eight of the adult publications stemmed from the same two trials; within the pediatric subset, this was the case for two papers. Studies that have looked at mHealth interventions have found high acceptability rates over the short run, but there is a general lack of data on long-term use. CONCLUSIONS The literature surrounding pediatric trials specifically is sparse with all findings referencing interventions that are in early stages of development, ranging from field tests to small feasibility trials. The lack of research highlights the need for a multi-center RCT that utilizes robust measures of medication adherence and other outcome variables, with longer-term follow-up before telehealth interventions should be fully embraced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca R. Campagna
- Department of PsychologyFordham UniversityBronxNew YorkUSA,Department of PediatricsKravis Children’s HospitalIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Rebecca Tutino
- Department of PsychologyFordham UniversityBronxNew YorkUSA,Department of PediatricsKravis Children’s HospitalIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | | | - Julia Flood
- Department of PsychologyFordham UniversityBronxNew YorkUSA
| | - Gali Halevi
- Department of MedicineIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA,Department of Medical EducationIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Eyal Shemesh
- Department of PediatricsKravis Children’s HospitalIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Rachel A. Annunziato
- Department of PsychologyFordham UniversityBronxNew YorkUSA,Department of PediatricsKravis Children’s HospitalIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
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15
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Serper M, Asrani S, VanWagner L, Reese PP, Kim M, Wolf MS. Redefining Success After Liver Transplantation: From Mortality Toward Function and Fulfillment. Liver Transpl 2022; 28:304-313. [PMID: 34608746 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT), the only cure for end-stage liver disease, is a lifesaving, costly, and limited resource. LT recipients (LTRs) are aging with an increasing burden of medical comorbidities. Patient and graft survival rates exceed 70% at 5 years; however, patient-centered health outcomes beyond survival have received relatively little attention. LTRs must have strong self-management skills to navigate health systems, adhere to clinical monitoring, and take complex, multidrug regimens. All of these tasks require formidable cognitive abilities for active learning and problem solving. Yet, LTRs are at higher risk for impaired cognition as a result of the high prevalence of pretransplant hepatic encephalopathy, multiple chronic conditions, alcohol use, physical frailty, sarcopenia, and older age. Cognitive impairment after transplant may persist and has been causally linked to poor self-management skills, worse physical function, and inferior health outcomes in other health care settings, yet its impact after LT is largely unknown. There is a need to study potentially modifiable, posttransplant targets including caregiver support, physical activity, sleep, and treatment adherence to inform future health system responses to promote the long-term health and well-being of LTRs. Prospective, longitudinal data collection that encompasses key sociodemographic, cognitive-behavioral, psychosocial, and medical factors is needed to improve risk prediction and better inform patient and caregiver expectations. Interventions with proactive monitoring, reducing medical complexity, and improved care coordination can be tailored to optimize posttransplant care. We propose a research agenda focused on understudied, potentially modifiable risk factors to improve the long-term health of LTRs. Our conceptual model accounts for cognitive function, caregiver and patient self-management skills, health behaviors, and patient-centered outcomes beyond mortality. We propose actionable health-system, patient, and caregiver-directed interventions to fill knowledge gaps and improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Serper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA.,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Lisa VanWagner
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL.,Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL.,Comprehensive Transplant Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Peter P Reese
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.,Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.,Division of Renal Electrolyte and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Minjee Kim
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL.,Center for Circadian and Sleep Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL.,Northwestern University Transplant Outcomes Research Collaborative, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Michael S Wolf
- Division of General Internal Medicine & Geriatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
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16
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Musaoğlu M, Yuksel M, Mizikoglu O, Arikan C. Telemedicine in monitoring pediatric LT patients before and during COVID-19 pandemic. Pediatr Transplant 2022; 26:e14138. [PMID: 34505750 PMCID: PMC8646366 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The delivery of healthcare services by telemedicine decreases costs of traveling for patients, is less time-consuming, and most importantly permits the connection between highly skilled specialists and patients. However, whether the use of telemedicine (text messaging) for LT patients was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic is unknown. METHODS We collected data (following consent from patients and parents) from 57 patients (33 male/24 female) with a median age of 47 (IQR: 9-91) months, whom we followed up with text messaging between September 2019 and September 2020, spanning the 6 months prior to COVID-19 and during this period. RESULTS In total, 723 text message mediated consultations occurred during this period, henceforth simply referred to as "messages." Three hundred and twenty-eight (45%) messages occurred during the 6 months up to the start of the pandemic. Following the COVID-19 outbreak, the number of messages increased to 395 (55%). The three most common reasons of messaging were post-liver-LT follow-up messages (n = 215/723, 29.7%), consultations for drug use (n = 157/723, 21.7%), and medication prescriptions (n = 113/723, 15.6%). Protocol biopsy discussions (n = 33/723, 4.6%) and fever (n = 27/723, 3.7%) were among others (vaccination, rash, diarrhea, cough, fatigue, acne). During the COVID-19 outbreak, only post-LT follow-up messages increased significantly to 132/395 (33%) from 83/328 (25%) (p-value: .02). CONCLUSIONS We found that the pandemic resulted in an increase in the total number of text message mediated consultations and specifically for the use of post-LT follow-up. Messaging was effective for post-LT follow-ups and all patients were at least satisfied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirac Musaoğlu
- Koç UniversityPediatric Gastroenterology‐Hepatology/Liver Transplantation CenterIstanbulTurkey
| | - Muhammed Yuksel
- Koç UniversityPediatric Gastroenterology‐Hepatology/Liver Transplantation CenterIstanbulTurkey,Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM)‐Liver Immunology LabIstanbulTurkey
| | - Ozlem Mizikoglu
- Koç UniversityPediatric Gastroenterology‐Hepatology/Liver Transplantation CenterIstanbulTurkey
| | - Cigdem Arikan
- Koç UniversityPediatric Gastroenterology‐Hepatology/Liver Transplantation CenterIstanbulTurkey,Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM)‐Liver Immunology LabIstanbulTurkey
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17
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Khungar V, Fix OK. The Evolution and Future of Telehealth for Gastroenterology and Hepatology. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2022; 19:161-166. [PMID: 35505913 PMCID: PMC9053675 DOI: 10.1002/cld.1184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Content available: Author Audio Recording.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vandana Khungar
- Department of MedicineSection of Digestive DiseasesYale University School of MedicineNew HavenCT
| | - Oren K. Fix
- Department of MedicineDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
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18
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Wahid N, Rosenblatt R. Disparities in Telehealth for Liver Disease: Revealing What Was Hidden in Plain Sight. Dig Dis Sci 2022; 67:3-5. [PMID: 33948757 PMCID: PMC8096140 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-021-06996-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nabeel Wahid
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1305 York Avenue, 4th floor, New York, NY 10021 USA
| | - Russell Rosenblatt
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1305 York Avenue, 4th floor, New York, NY 10021 USA
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19
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Gachabayov M, Latifi LA, Parsikia A, Latifi R. The Role of Telemedicine in Surgical Specialties During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review. World J Surg 2021; 46:10-18. [PMID: 34743242 PMCID: PMC8572066 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-021-06348-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background The objective of this study was to evaluate the current body of evidence on the use of telemedicine in surgical subspecialties during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This was a scoping review conducted in compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). MEDLINE via Ovid, PubMed, and EMBASE were systematically searched for any reports discussing telemedicine use in surgery and surgical specialties during the first period (February 2020–August 8, 2020) and second 6-month period (August 9–March 4, 2021) of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results Of 466 articles screened through full text, 277 articles were included for possible qualitative and/or quantitative data synthesis. The majority of publications in the first 6 months were in orthopedic surgery, followed by general surgery and neurosurgery, whereas in the second 6 months of COVID-19 pandemic, urology and neurosurgery were the most productive, followed by transplant and plastic surgery. Most publications in the first 6 months were opinion papers (80%), which decreased to 33% in the second 6 months. The role of telemedicine in different aspects of surgical care and surgical education was summarized stratifying by specialty. Conclusion Telemedicine has increased access to care of surgical patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, but whether this practice will continue post-pandemic remains unknown. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00268-021-06348-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahir Gachabayov
- Department of Surgery, Westchester Medical Center Health, New York Medical College, School of Medicine, Taylor Pavilion, Suite D334, 100 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA.,Department of Surgery, Westchester Medical Center, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Lulejeta A Latifi
- Department of Surgery, Westchester Medical Center Health, New York Medical College, School of Medicine, Taylor Pavilion, Suite D334, 100 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA.,University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.,Department of Surgery, Westchester Medical Center, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Afshin Parsikia
- Department of Surgery, Westchester Medical Center Health, New York Medical College, School of Medicine, Taylor Pavilion, Suite D334, 100 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA.,Department of Surgery, Westchester Medical Center, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Rifat Latifi
- Department of Surgery, Westchester Medical Center Health, New York Medical College, School of Medicine, Taylor Pavilion, Suite D334, 100 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA. .,Department of Surgery, Westchester Medical Center, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.
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20
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Phipps MM, Verna EC. Coronavirus Disease 2019 and Liver Transplantation: Lessons from the First Year of the Pandemic. Liver Transpl 2021; 27:1312-1325. [PMID: 34096188 PMCID: PMC8242435 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Over the last year, the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has continued to spread across the globe, causing significant morbidity and mortality among transplantation candidates and recipients. Patients with end-stage liver disease awaiting liver transplantation and patients with a history of liver transplantation represent vulnerable populations, especially given the high rates of associated medical comorbidities in these groups and their immunosuppressed status. In addition, concerns surrounding COVID-19 risk in this patient population have affected rates of transplantation and general transplantation practices. Here, we explore what we have learned about the impact of COVID-19 on liver transplantation candidates and recipients as well as the many key knowledge gaps that remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meaghan M. Phipps
- Division of Digestive and Liver DiseasesDepartment of MedicineColumbia UniversityNew YorkNY
| | - Elizabeth C. Verna
- Division of Digestive and Liver DiseasesDepartment of MedicineColumbia UniversityNew YorkNY
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21
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Park L, Kim JH, Waldman G, Marks CR, Clark JE. Impact analysis of virtual ambulatory transplant pharmacists during COVID-19. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF CLINICAL PHARMACY 2021; 4:978-987. [PMID: 34518815 PMCID: PMC8427059 DOI: 10.1002/jac5.1488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, transplant centers were challenged to meet the demand for new telemedicine strategies. The ability of lung transplant providers (LTP) to conduct face-to-face clinic visits for high-risk immunocompromised patients, such as lung transplant recipients (LTR), was limited. Through the implementation of comprehensive medication management visits, pharmacists were able to assist LTP in the transition to telemedicine. METHODS A retrospective chart review of telephone encounters from cardiothoracic (CT) transplant pharmacists at our center from March to September 2020 was completed. LTR scheduled for clinic visits with LTP were called prior to the visit by CT transplant pharmacists who conducted medication list reviews, adherence assessments, and medication access assistance. Clinical recommendations were communicated directly to the LTP and documented in patient electronic medical records. The primary outcome was the number of pharmacist-driven clinical interventions. Secondary endpoints included the clinical severity and value of service of each intervention, percentage of accepted recommendations, patient cost savings interventions, prevention of adverse events, and avoidance of inappropriate doses. RESULTS From March to September 2020, the CT transplant pharmacists conducted 385 virtual visits on 157 LTR with a median of 20 minutes spent per visit. There were 891 total interventions made by CT transplant pharmacists, including 778 medication discrepancies identified. Over 60% of encounters demonstrated some form of medication error and over 55% of encounters exhibited value of pharmacy services. CONCLUSION Implementation of CT transplant pharmacist telehealth visits has potential for increased patient access to pharmacy care and improved accuracy of medication lists. When focusing on the severity of errors and value of services, most demonstrated a level of significance. Further investigation is needed to analyze the impact of this service on patient outcomes as well as cost-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Park
- Department of Pharmacy, Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Ju Hee Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Georgina Waldman
- Department of Pharmacy, Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | | | - Jacqueline E. Clark
- Department of Pharmacy, Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
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22
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Lobritto S, Danziger-Isakov L, Michaels MG, Mazariegos GV. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Pediatrics and Pediatric Transplantation Programs. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:612627. [PMID: 33363069 PMCID: PMC7758251 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.612627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has dramatically altered the health care landscape and disrupted global health and world economics in ways that are still being measured. Its impact on children with chronic conditions or those undergoing transplantation is evolving. The organ specific manifestations in children will be reviewed and treatment strategies outlined. The impact on pediatric transplantation in the United States over the initial 6 months of the pandemic has shown significant regional variation and lags persist in resumption of normal transplant activity, particularly for living related transplantation. Finally, guidelines regarding return to school will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Lobritto
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, United States
| | - Lara Danziger-Isakov
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Marian G Michaels
- Division of Infectious Diseases, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - George V Mazariegos
- Hillman Center for Pediatric Transplantation, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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