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Winder GS, Fernandez AC, Perumalswami PV, Mellinger JL, Clifton EG. Reexamining "psychosocial clearance": A procedural framework for psychosocial evaluation in liver transplantation. Liver Transpl 2024; 30:431-442. [PMID: 38009890 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Psychosocial and "nonmedical" phenomena are commonly encountered in liver transplantation (LT) evaluations. They are simultaneously crucial decision-making factors and some of the most difficult and controversial clinical matters clinicians confront. Epidemiology, societal trends, and the preponderance of psychological and behavioral factors underpinning common end-stage liver diseases ensure that LT teams will continue to encounter highly complex psychosocial patient presentations. Psychosocial policies, practices, and opinions vary widely among clinicians and LT centers. Liver clinicians already report insufficient psychosocial expertise, which creates a large gap between the stark need for psychosocial expansion, improvement, and innovation in LT and the lack of accompanying guidance on how to achieve it. While the clinical domains of an LT psychosocial evaluation have been well-described, few articles analyze the procedures by which teams determine candidates' "psychosocial clearance" and no conceptual frameworks exist. This article proposes a framework of core domains of psychosocial evaluation procedures, common pitfalls, and practical improvement strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald Scott Winder
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anne C Fernandez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Ponni V Perumalswami
- Department of Internal Medicine, Veterans Affairs, Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jessica L Mellinger
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Erin G Clifton
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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2
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Perry JM, Deutsch-Link S, Marfeo E, Serper M, Ladin K. Assessing reliability and validity of SIPAT and opportunities for improvement: A single-center cohort study. Liver Transpl 2024; 30:356-366. [PMID: 37938131 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Psychosocial assessment is a standard component of patient evaluations for transplant candidacy. The Stanford Integrated Psychosocial Assessment for Transplant (SIPAT) is a widely used measure to assess psychosocial risk for transplant. However, there are questions regarding the SIPAT's reliability and validity. We examined the SIPAT's psychometric performance and its impact on equitable access to transplant in a diverse cohort of 2825 patients seeking liver transplantation between 2014 and 2021 at an urban transplant center. The SIPAT demonstrated good internal consistency reliability at the overall score [Cronbach's α = 0.85, 95% CI (0.83, 0.86)] and domain levels (0.80 > α > 0.70). There was mixed support for structural validity, with poor overall model fit in confirmatory factor analysis and 50% of questions achieving the 0.70-factor loadings threshold. Adjusting for sociodemographic variables, the odds of not being waitlisted for psychosocial reasons were three times higher for patients with Medicaid insurance than patients with private insurance [OR 3.24, 95% CI (2.09, 4.99)] or Medicare [OR 2.89, 95% CI (1.84, 4.53)], mediated by higher SIPAT scores. Black patients had nearly twice the odds of White patients [OR 1.88, 95% CI (1.20, 2.91)], partially mediated by higher social support domain scores. Patients with Medicaid, non-White patients, and those without a college degree scored significantly higher on collinear questions, disproportionately contributing to higher SIPAT scores. The SIPAT did not perform equally across insurance type, race/ethnicity, and education groups, with the lowest subgroup validity associated with patient readiness and psychopathology domains. The SIPAT should be interpreted with caution, especially as a composite score. Future studies should examine validity in other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Perry
- Department of Community Health, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sasha Deutsch-Link
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Elizabeth Marfeo
- Department of Community Health, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marina Serper
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Keren Ladin
- Department of Community Health, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
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3
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Amdani S, Gossett JG, Chepp V, Urschel S, Asante-Korang A, Dalton JE. Review on clinician bias and its impact on racial and socioeconomic disparities in pediatric heart transplantation. Pediatr Transplant 2024; 28:e14704. [PMID: 38419391 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14704] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
This expert review seeks to highlight implicit bias in health care, transplant medicine, and pediatric heart transplantation to focus attention on the role these biases may play in the racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities noted in pediatric heart transplantation. This review breaks down the transplant decision making process to highlight points at which implicit bias may affect outcomes and discuss how the science of human decision making may help understand these complex processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahnawaz Amdani
- Children's Institute Department of Heart, Vascular & Thoracic, Division of Cardiology & Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jeffrey G Gossett
- Northwell, Cohen Children's Medical Center, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
| | - Valerie Chepp
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Simon Urschel
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Alfred Asante-Korang
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St Petersburg, Florida, USA
| | - Jarrod E Dalton
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Cotter TG, Mitchell MC, Patel MJ, Anouti A, Lieber SR, Rich NE, Arab JP, Díaz LA, Louissaint J, Kerr T, Mufti AR, Hanish SI, Vagefi PA, Patel MS, VanWagner LB, Lee WM, O'Leary JG, Singal AG. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Liver Transplantation for Alcohol-associated Liver Diseases in the United States. Transplantation 2024; 108:225-234. [PMID: 37340542 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging data suggest disparities exist in liver transplantation (LT) for alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). As the incidence of ALD increases, we aimed to characterize recent trends in ALD LT frequency and outcomes, including racial and ethnic disparities. METHODS Using United Network for Organ Sharing/Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network data (2015 through 2021), we evaluated LT frequency, waitlist mortality, and graft survival among US adults with ALD (alcohol-associated hepatitis [AH] and alcohol-associated cirrhosis [AAC]) stratified by race and ethnicity. We used adjusted competing-risk regression analysis to evaluate waitlist outcomes, Kaplan-Meier analysis to illustrate graft survival, and Cox proportional hazards modeling to identify factors associated with graft survival. RESULTS There were 1211 AH and 26 526 AAC new LT waitlist additions, with 970 AH and 15 522 AAC LTs performed. Compared with non-Hispanic White patients (NHWs) with AAC, higher hazards of waitlist death were observed for Hispanic (subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR] = 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16-1.32), Asian (SHR = 1.22, 95% CI:1. 01-1.47), and American Indian/Alaskan Native (SHR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.15-1.76) candidates. Similarly, significantly higher graft failures were observed in non-Hispanic Black (HR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.09-1.61) and American Indian/Alaskan Native (HR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.15-2.38) patients with AAC than NHWs. We did not observe differences in waitlist or post-LT outcomes by race or ethnicity in AH, although analyses were limited by small subgroups. CONCLUSIONS Significant racial and ethnic disparities exist for ALD LT frequency and outcomes in the United States. Compared with NHWs, racial and ethnic minorities with AAC experience increased risk of waitlist mortality and graft failure. Efforts are needed to identify determinants for LT disparities in ALD that can inform intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G Cotter
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Mack C Mitchell
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Mausam J Patel
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Ahmad Anouti
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Sarah R Lieber
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Nicole E Rich
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Juan Pablo Arab
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine, Western University & London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - Luis Antonio Díaz
- Departmento de Gastroenterología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jeremy Louissaint
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Thomas Kerr
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Arjmand R Mufti
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Steven I Hanish
- Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Parsia A Vagefi
- Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Madhukar S Patel
- Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Lisa B VanWagner
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - William M Lee
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Jacqueline G O'Leary
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Amit G Singal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
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Ufere NN, Lago-Hernandez C, Alejandro-Soto A, Walker T, Li L, Schoener K, Keegan E, Gonzalez C, Bethea E, Singh S, El-Jawahri A, Nephew L, Jones P, Serper M. Health care-related transportation insecurity is associated with adverse health outcomes among adults with chronic liver disease. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0358. [PMID: 38206200 PMCID: PMC10786597 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care-related transportation insecurity (delayed or forgone medical care due to transportation barriers) is being increasingly recognized as a social risk factor affecting health outcomes. We estimated the national burden and adverse outcomes of health care-related transportation insecurity among US adults with chronic liver disease (CLD). METHODS Using the U.S. National Health Interview Survey from 2014 to 2018, we identified adults with self-reported CLD. We used complex weighted survey analysis to obtain national estimates of health care-related transportation insecurity. We examined the associations between health care-related transportation insecurity and health care-related financial insecurity, food insecurity, self-reported health status, work productivity, health care use, and mortality. RESULTS Of the 3643 (representing 5.2 million) US adults with CLD, 267 [representing 307,628 (6%; 95% CI: 5%-7%)] reported health care-related transportation insecurity. Adults with CLD experiencing health care-related transportation insecurity had 3.5 times higher odds of cost-related medication nonadherence [aOR, 3.5; (2.4-5.0)], 3.5 times higher odds of food insecurity [aOR, 3.5; (2.4-5.3)], 2.5 times higher odds of worsening self-reported health status over the past year [aOR, 2.5; (1.7-3.7)], 3.1 times higher odds of being unable to work due to poor health over the past year [aOR, 3.1; (2.0-4.9)], and 1.7 times higher odds of being in a higher-risk category group for number of hospitalizations annually [aOR, 1.7; (1.2-2.5)]. Health care-related transportation insecurity was independently associated with mortality after controlling for age, income, insurance status, comorbidity burden, financial insecurity, and food insecurity [aHR, 1.7; (1.4-2.0)]. CONCLUSIONS Health care-related transportation insecurity is a critical social risk factor that is associated with health care-related financial insecurity, food insecurity, poorer self-reported health status and work productivity, and increased health care use and mortality among US adults with CLD. Efforts to screen for and reduce health care-related transportation insecurity are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nneka N. Ufere
- Liver Center, Gastrointestinal Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carlos Lago-Hernandez
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hospital Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Alysa Alejandro-Soto
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tiana Walker
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lucinda Li
- Liver Center, Gastrointestinal Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kimberly Schoener
- Department of Social Services, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Eileen Keegan
- Department of Social Services, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carolina Gonzalez
- Department of Social Services, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emily Bethea
- Liver Center, Gastrointestinal Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Siddharth Singh
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Biomedical Informatics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Areej El-Jawahri
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lauren Nephew
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Patricia Jones
- Department of Medicine, Division of Digestive Health and Liver Services, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Marina Serper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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6
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Kaplan A, Lee-Riddle GS, Nobel Y, Dove L, Shenoy A, Rosenblatt R, Samstein B, Emond JC, Brown RS. National survey of second opinions for hospitalized patients in need of liver transplantation. Liver Transpl 2023; 29:1264-1271. [PMID: 37439670 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Decisions about patient candidacy for liver transplant (LT) can mean the difference between life and death. We surveyed LT centers across the United States to assess their perceptions of and barriers to second-opinion referrals for inpatients declined for transplant. The medical and surgical directors of 100 unique US LT programs that had done >20 LTs in 2021 were surveyed with a 33-item questionnaire including both multiple-choice and free-response questions. The response rate was 60% (60 LT centers) and included 28 larger-volume ( ≥100 LTs in 2021) and 32 smaller-volume (<100 LTs in 2021) programs. The top 3 reasons for inpatient denial for LT included lack of social support (21%), physical frailty (20%), and inadequate remission duration from alcohol use (11%). Twenty-five percent of the programs reported "frequently" facilitating a second opinion for a declined inpatient, 52% of the programs reported "sometimes" doing so, and 7% of the programs reported never doing so. One hundred percent of the programs reported that they receive referrals for second opinions. Twenty-five percent of the programs reported transplanting these referrals frequently (over 20% of the time). Neither program size nor program location statistically impacted the findings. When asked if centers would be in favor of standardizing the evaluation process, 38% of centers would be in favor, 39% would be opposed, and 23% were unsure. The practices and perceptions of second opinions for hospitalized patients evaluated for LT varied widely across the United States. Opportunities exist to improve equity in LT but must consider maintaining individual program autonomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyson Kaplan
- Weill Cornell Medical Center, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, New York, New York, USA
| | - Grace S Lee-Riddle
- Columbia University Medical Center, Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yael Nobel
- Columbia University Medical Center, Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lorna Dove
- Columbia University Medical Center, Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Akhil Shenoy
- Columbia University Medical Center, Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Russell Rosenblatt
- Weill Cornell Medical Center, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, New York, New York, USA
| | - Benjamin Samstein
- Weill Cornell Medical Center, Department of Surgery, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jean C Emond
- Columbia University Medical Center, Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Robert S Brown
- Weill Cornell Medical Center, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, New York, New York, USA
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7
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McElroy LM, Schappe T, Mohottige D, Davis L, Peskoe SB, Wang V, Pendergast J, Boulware LE. Racial Equity in Living Donor Kidney Transplant Centers, 2008-2018. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2347826. [PMID: 38100105 PMCID: PMC10724764 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.47826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance It is unclear whether center-level factors are associated with racial equity in living donor kidney transplant (LDKT). Objective To evaluate center-level factors and racial equity in LDKT during an 11-year time period. Design, Setting, and Participants A retrospective cohort longitudinal study was completed in February 2023, of US transplant centers with at least 12 annual LDKTs from January 1, 2008, to December 31, 2018, identified in the Health Resources Services Administration database and linked to the US Renal Data System and the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients. Main Outcomes and Measures Observed and model-based estimated Black-White mean LDKT rate ratios (RRs), where an RR of 1 indicates racial equity and values less than 1 indicate a lower rate of LDKT of Black patients compared with White patients. Estimated yearly best-case center-specific LDKT RRs between Black and White individuals, where modifiable center characteristics were set to values that would facilitate access to LDKT. Results The final cohorts of patients included 394 625 waitlisted adults, of whom 33.1% were Black and 66.9% were White, and 57 222 adult LDKT recipients, of whom 14.1% were Black and 85.9% were White. Among 89 transplant centers, estimated yearly center-level RRs between Black and White individuals accounting for center and population characteristics ranged from 0.0557 in 2008 to 0.771 in 2018. The yearly median RRs ranged from 0.216 in 2016 to 0.285 in 2010. Model-based estimations for the hypothetical best-case scenario resulted in little change in the minimum RR (from 0.0557 to 0.0549), but a greater positive shift in the maximum RR from 0.771 to 0.895. Relative to the observed 582 LDKT in Black patients and 3837 in White patients, the 2018 hypothetical model estimated an increase of 423 (a 72.7% increase) LDKTs for Black patients and of 1838 (a 47.9% increase) LDKTs for White patients. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study of patients with kidney failure, no substantial improvement occurred over time either in the observed or the covariate-adjusted estimated RRs. Under the best-case hypothetical estimations, modifying centers' participation in the paired exchange and voucher programs and increased access to public insurance may contribute to improved racial equity in LDKT. Additional work is needed to identify center-level and program-specific strategies to improve racial equity in access to LDKT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. McElroy
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Tyler Schappe
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Dinushika Mohottige
- Institute of Health Equity Research and Barbara T. Murphy Division of Nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - LaShara Davis
- Department of Surgery and J. C. Walter Jr Transplant Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Sarah B. Peskoe
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Virginia Wang
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jane Pendergast
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - L. Ebony Boulware
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, North Carolina
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8
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Patel S, Alfafara C, Kraus MB, Buckner-Petty S, Bonner T, Youssef MR, Poterack KA, Mour G, Mathur AK, Milam AJ. Individual- and Community-Level Socioeconomic Status and Deceased Donor Renal Transplant Outcomes. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023:10.1007/s40615-023-01851-8. [PMID: 37962790 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01851-8] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study examined the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES), race, and ethnicity and clinical outcomes following deceased donor kidney transplant (DDKT) at a high-volume transplant center. METHODS This retrospective cohort study used regression models and survival analyses to examine the relationship between individual- and community-level SES, race, and ethnicity and DDKT outcomes (i.e., delayed graft function, graft failure, mortality) adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS The analytic sample included 3366 patients; 40.7% (n = 1370) were female, the mean age was 54.7 (SD = 13.3) years, 49.3% were non-Hispanic White, and the median follow-up time was 39.5 months (IQR = 24.2-68.1). Patients living in the most disadvantaged communities (using the US Census data) had a higher likelihood of delayed graft function (adjusted relative risk [RR] = 1.12, p = 0.042) and a higher hazard of mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.32, p = 0.025) compared to patients living in the least disadvantaged communities. Patients without a high school diploma had a higher risk of delayed graft function compared to patients with an associate degree or more (RR = 1.37, p < 0.001). Patients with public insurance coverage had a higher risk of delayed graft function (RR = 1.24, p < 0.001) and a higher hazard of mortality (HR = 1.37, p < 0.001) and graft failure (HR = 1.71, p < 0.001) compared to patients without public insurance. There were no differences in graft failure or mortality by race and ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS SES was not consistently associated with outcomes following DDKT; however, many of the predictors were associated with delayed graft function. With a large and diverse sample size, these findings further the heterogeneity of the present renal transplant research suggesting the need for further investigation to guide implementation of innovative strategies and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyam Patel
- Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Scottsdale, AZ, 85259, USA
| | - Chelsea Alfafara
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Molly B Kraus
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Skye Buckner-Petty
- Department of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Timethia Bonner
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Mohanad R Youssef
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Karl A Poterack
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Girish Mour
- Division of Nephrology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Amit K Mathur
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA
| | - Adam J Milam
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA.
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9
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Strauss AT, Sidoti CN, Sung HC, Jain VS, Lehmann H, Purnell TS, Jackson JW, Malinsky D, Hamilton JP, Garonzik-Wang J, Gray SH, Levan ML, Hinson JS, Gurses AP, Gurakar A, Segev DL, Levin S. Artificial intelligence-based clinical decision support for liver transplant evaluation and considerations about fairness: A qualitative study. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0239. [PMID: 37695082 PMCID: PMC10497243 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of large-scale data and artificial intelligence (AI) to support complex transplantation decisions is in its infancy. Transplant candidate decision-making, which relies heavily on subjective assessment (ie, high variability), provides a ripe opportunity for AI-based clinical decision support (CDS). However, AI-CDS for transplant applications must consider important concerns regarding fairness (ie, health equity). The objective of this study was to use human-centered design methods to elicit providers' perceptions of AI-CDS for liver transplant listing decisions. METHODS In this multicenter qualitative study conducted from December 2020 to July 2021, we performed semistructured interviews with 53 multidisciplinary liver transplant providers from 2 transplant centers. We used inductive coding and constant comparison analysis of interview data. RESULTS Analysis yielded 6 themes important for the design of fair AI-CDS for liver transplant listing decisions: (1) transparency in the creators behind the AI-CDS and their motivations; (2) understanding how the AI-CDS uses data to support recommendations (ie, interpretability); (3) acknowledgment that AI-CDS could mitigate emotions and biases; (4) AI-CDS as a member of the transplant team, not a replacement; (5) identifying patient resource needs; and (6) including the patient's role in the AI-CDS. CONCLUSIONS Overall, providers interviewed were cautiously optimistic about the potential for AI-CDS to improve clinical and equitable outcomes for patients. These findings can guide multidisciplinary developers in the design and implementation of AI-CDS that deliberately considers health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra T. Strauss
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Carolyn N. Sidoti
- Department of Surgery, New York University, Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Hannah C. Sung
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Vedant S. Jain
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Harold Lehmann
- Department of Medicine, Division of Biomedical Informatics & Data Science, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Tanjala S. Purnell
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - John W. Jackson
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Daniel Malinsky
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - James P. Hamilton
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jacqueline Garonzik-Wang
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Stephen H. Gray
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Macey L. Levan
- Department of Surgery, New York University, Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jeremiah S. Hinson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ayse P. Gurses
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ahmet Gurakar
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Dorry L. Segev
- Department of Surgery, New York University, Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Scott Levin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Beckman Coulter, Brea, California, USA
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10
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Kilani Y, Kamal SAF, Vikash F, Vikash S, Aldiabat M, Alsakarneh S, Aljabiri Y, Sohail H, Kumar V, Numan L, Al Khalloufi K. Racial Disparities in Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the United States: An Update. Dig Dis Sci 2023; 68:4050-4059. [PMID: 37584869 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-023-08084-z] [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: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have demonstrated a disparity in liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) among races in the United States (U.S.). AIMS We aimed to update the literature on the odds, trends, and complications of LT in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), among individuals of different racial backgrounds. METHODS This is a nationwide study of adult individuals admitted for LT with a primary diagnosis of HCC. Using weighted data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database, we compared the odds of LT among different races from 2016 to 2020, using a multivariate regression analysis. We further assessed the trends and outcomes of LT among races. RESULTS A total of 112,110 adult were hospitalized with a primary diagnosis of HCC. 3020 underwent LT. When compared to Whites, the likelihood of undergoing LT for HCC was significantly reduced in Blacks (OR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.46-0.78). Further, Blacks had increased mortality rates (7% in Blacks vs. 1% in Whites, p < 0.001), sepsis (11% in Blacks vs. 3% in Whites, p = 0.015), and acute kidney injury (AKI) (54% in Blacks vs. 31% in Whites, p < 0.001) following LT. CONCLUSIONS Individuals identifying as Blacks were less likely to undergo LT for HCC, and more likely to develop complications. Further initiatives are warranted to mitigate the existing disparities among racial groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yassine Kilani
- Department of Medicine, Lincoln Medical Center/Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | | | - Fnu Vikash
- Department of Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sindhu Vikash
- Department of Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Saqr Alsakarneh
- Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Yazan Aljabiri
- Department of Medicine, Lincoln Medical Center/Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Haris Sohail
- Department of Medicine, Lincoln Medical Center/Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vikash Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Brooklyn Hospital Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laith Numan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kawtar Al Khalloufi
- Department of Transplant Hepatology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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11
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Wright LK, Culp S, Gajarski RJ, Nandi D. Racial and socioeconomic disparities in status exceptions for pediatric heart transplant candidates under the current U.S. Pediatric Heart Allocation Policy. J Heart Lung Transplant 2023; 42:1233-1241. [PMID: 37088341 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2016 revision of the US Pediatric Heart Allocation Policy developed stringent rules for priority status creating impetus for clinicians to seek status exceptions. We hypothesized there may be differential status exceptions based on race and socioeconomic status (SES) contributing to disparities in waitlist outcomes. METHODS The Scientific Registry for Transplant Recipients was queried for children listed for heart transplant from 2012 to 2020. Waitlist status & mortality with regards to race and neighborhood SES were stratified by listing before (Era 1) or after (Era 2) the policy change. RESULTS The use of both 1A and 1B exceptions (E) increased in Era 2. In Era 1, there was no association between patient race or neighborhood SES on use of 1A(E) or 1B(E) when controlling for age and diagnosis. In Era 2, neither race nor neighborhood SES were associated with 1A(E), but both were associated with 1B(E): non-Hispanic (NH) Black children and those from low- and middle-SES neighborhoods were significantly less likely to be listed 1B(E). In Era 1, there were no significant differences in waitlist mortality based on race at any waitlist status; in Era 2, NH Black children had higher waitlist mortality when initially listed 1B or 2. CONCLUSIONS Since the 2016 policy change, racial disparities in waitlist mortality have worsened among children initially listed with lower priority status. Unequal use of 1B exceptions, which lower waitlist mortality, may explain some of these disparities. Recently implemented standardized pediatric exception guidance has the potential to improve equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia K Wright
- The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.
| | - Stacey Culp
- Center for Biostatistics, Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | | | - Deipanjan Nandi
- The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
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12
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Gordon EJ, Gacki-Smith J, Kuramitsu BR, Downey M, Vanterpool KB, Nordstrom MJ, Riggleman T, Cooney CM, Jensen S, Dumanian G, Tintle S, Levan M, Brandacher G. Ethical and Psychosocial Factors in the Decision-Making and Informed Consent Process for Upper Extremity Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation: A Mixed-Methods Study. Transplant Direct 2023; 9:e1515. [PMID: 37492079 PMCID: PMC10365204 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000001515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Although upper extremity (UE) vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) aims to improve quality of life, relatively few have been performed worldwide to support evidence-based treatment and informed decision-making. Methods We qualitatively examined factors contributing to anticipated and actual decision-making about UE VCA and perceptions of the elements of informed consent among people with UE amputations, and UE VCA candidates, participants, and recipients through in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Results Fifty individuals participated; most were male (78%) and had a mean age of 45 y and a unilateral amputation (84%). One-third (35%) were "a lot" or "completely" willing to pursue UE VCA. UE VCA decision-making themes included the utility of UE VCA, psychosocial impact of UE VCA and amputation on individuals' lives, altruism, and anticipated burden of UE VCA on lifestyle. Most respondents who underwent UE VCA evaluation (n = 8/10) perceived having no reasonable treatment alternatives. Generally, respondents (n = 50) recognized the potential for familial, societal, cultural, medical, and self-driven pressures to pursue UE VCA among individuals with amputations. Some (n = 9/50, 18%) reported personally feeling "a little," "somewhat," "a lot," or "completely" pressured to pursue UE VCA. Respondents recommended that individuals be informed about the option of UE VCA near the amputation date. Conclusions Our study identified psychosocial and other factors affecting decision-making about UE VCA, which should be addressed to enhance informed consent. Study participants' perceptions and preferences about UE VCA suggest re-examination of assumptions guiding the UE VCA clinical evaluation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa J. Gordon
- Department of Surgery, and Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Jessica Gacki-Smith
- Center for Health Services and Outcomes Research, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Brianna R. Kuramitsu
- Center for Health Services and Outcomes Research, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Max Downey
- Department of Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY
| | - Karen B. Vanterpool
- Department of Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY
| | - Michelle J. Nordstrom
- Center for Rehabilitation Sciences Research, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD
| | - Tiffany Riggleman
- Center for Rehabilitation Sciences Research, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD
| | - Carisa M. Cooney
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Sally Jensen
- Department of Medical Social Sciences and Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Gregory Dumanian
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Scott Tintle
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD
| | - Macey Levan
- Department of Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Gerald Brandacher
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
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13
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Ogundolie M, Chan N, McElroy LM. Equity in liver transplantation: are we any closer? Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2023; 28:259-264. [PMID: 37339515 DOI: 10.1097/mot.0000000000001085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW As policies governing liver transplantation (LT) continue to change and influence clinical practice, it is important to monitor trends in equitable access and outcomes amongst patients. The purpose of this review is to closely examine recent advances and findings in health equity research in LT over the last 2 years; specifically evaluating inequities at the different stages of LT (referral, evaluation, listing, waitlist outcomes and post-LT outcomes). RECENT FINDINGS Advancements in geospatial analysis have enabled investigators to identify and begin to study the role of community level factors (such as neighborhood poverty, increased community capital/urbanicity score) in driving LT disparities. There has also been a shift in investigating center specific characteristics that contributes to disparities in waitlist access. Modification to the current model for end stage liver disease (MELD) score policy accounting for height differences is also crucial to eradicating the disparity in LT amongst sexes. Lastly, Black pediatric patients have been shown to have higher rates of death and worse posttransplant outcome after transitioning to adult healthcare. SUMMARY Although, there have been some advances in methodology and policies, inequities in waitlist access, waitlist outcomes and posttransplant outcomes continue to be pervasive in the field of LT. Future directions include expansion of social determinants of health measures, inclusion of multicenter designs, MELD score modification and investigation into drivers of worse posttransplant outcomes in Black patients.
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14
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Jones PD, Lai JC, Bajaj JS, Kanwal F. Actionable Solutions to Achieve Health Equity in Chronic Liver Disease. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 21:1992-2000. [PMID: 37061105 PMCID: PMC10330625 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2023.03.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
There are well-described racial and ethnic disparities in the burden of chronic liver diseases. Hispanic persons are at highest risk for developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, the fastest growing cause of liver disease. Hepatitis B disproportionately affects persons of Asian or African descent. The highest rates of hepatitis C occur in American Indian and Alaskan Native populations. In addition to disparities in disease burden, there are also marked racial and ethnic disparities in access to treatments, including liver transplantation. Disparities also exist by gender and geography, especially in alcohol-related liver disease. To achieve health equity, we must address the root causes that drive these inequities. Understanding the role that social determinants of health play in the disparate health outcomes that are currently observed is critically important. We must forge and/or strengthen collaborations between patients, community members, other key stakeholders, health care providers, health care institutions, professional societies, and legislative bodies. Herein, we provide a high-level review of current disparities in chronic liver disease and describe actionable strategies that have potential to bridge gaps, improve quality, and promote equity in liver care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia D Jones
- Division of Digestive Health and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida; Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida.
| | - Jennifer C Lai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Virginia Commonwealth University and Central Virginia Veterans Health Care System, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Fasiha Kanwal
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Section of Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness, and Safety (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas
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15
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Strauss AT, Moughames E, Jackson JW, Malinsky D, Segev DL, Hamilton JP, Garonzik-Wang J, Gurakar A, Cameron A, Dean L, Klein E, Levin S, Purnell TS. Critical interactions between race and the highly granular area deprivation index in liver transplant evaluation. Clin Transplant 2023; 37:e14938. [PMID: 36786505 PMCID: PMC10175104 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation may have important implications on disparities in liver transplant (LT) evaluation. In this retrospective cohort study, we constructed a novel dataset by linking individual patient-level data with the highly granular Area Deprivation Index (ADI), which is advantageous over other neighborhood measures due to: specificity of Census Block-Group (versus Census Tract, Zip code), scoring, and robust variables. Our cohort included 1377 adults referred to our center for LT evaluation 8/1/2016-12/31/2019. Using modified Poisson regression, we tested for effect measure modification of the association between neighborhood socioeconomic status (nSES) and LT evaluation outcomes (listing, initiating evaluation, and death) by race and ethnicity. Compared to patients with high nSES, those with low nSES were at higher risk of not being listed (aRR = 1.14; 95%CI 1.05-1.22; p < .001), of not initiating evaluation post-referral (aRR = 1.20; 95%CI 1.01-1.42; p = .03) and of dying without initiating evaluation (aRR = 1.55; 95%CI 1.09-2.2; p = .01). While White patients with low nSES had similar rates of listing compared to White patients with high nSES (aRR = 1.06; 95%CI .96-1.17; p = .25), Underrepresented patients from neighborhoods with low nSES incurred 31% higher risk of not being listed compared to Underrepresented patients from neighborhoods with high nSES (aRR = 1.31; 95%CI 1.12-1.5; p < .001). Interventions addressing neighborhood deprivation may not only benefit patients with low nSES but may address racial and ethnic inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra T. Strauss
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Eric Moughames
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - John W. Jackson
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Daniel Malinsky
- Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
| | - Dorry L. Segev
- Department of Surgery, New York University, Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - James P. Hamilton
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jacqueline Garonzik-Wang
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Ahmet Gurakar
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Andrew Cameron
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Lorraine Dean
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Eili Klein
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Scott Levin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Tanjala S. Purnell
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
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16
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Samuel S, Choubey A, Koizumi N, Ekwenna O, Baxter PR, Li MH, Malik R, Ortiz J. Demographic inequities exist and influence transplant outcomes in liver transplantation for acute alcohol-associated hepatitis. HPB (Oxford) 2023:S1365-182X(23)00116-8. [PMID: 37088642 DOI: 10.1016/j.hpb.2023.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplantation has inherent disparities but data is scarce in liver transplant (LT) candidates with acute alcohol-associated hepatitis (AAH). We aimed to investigate demographic inequities and its impact on survival outcomes among AAH LT candidates. METHODS A retrospective analysis using the United Network of Organ Sharing database was conducted between 2000 and 2021. 25 981 LT recipients with alcohol-associated liver cirrhosis and 662 recipients with AAH were included. Waitlisted candidates were also evaluated. RESULTS In comparison with alcohol-associated liver cirrhosis, AAH LT recipients were more likely Asian or "other" race and younger. Hispanics demonstrated better graft and patient survival (p < 0.05) but were less likely to be waitlisted and transplanted for AAH than for liver cirrhosis. Women with AAH were more likely to be waitlisted and transplanted. Pre-existing diabetes and male sex were associated with higher graft failure (25% and 8% respectively). Increasing recipient age were 2% more likely to experience negative outcomes. Chronicity of liver disease did not impact graft (p = 0.137) or patient survival (p = 0.145). CONCLUSION Our results revealed demographic factors have a significant impact on transplant listing, organ allocation and survival outcomes. Further investigations are imperative to minimize disparities in LT evaluation and provide equity in healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Samuel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
| | - Ankur Choubey
- Department of Surgery, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Naoru Koizumi
- Schar School of Policy and Government, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
| | - Obi Ekwenna
- Department of Urology, The University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA
| | - Patrick R Baxter
- Schar School of Policy and Government, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
| | - Meng-Hao Li
- Schar School of Policy and Government, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
| | - Raza Malik
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Jorge Ortiz
- Department of Surgery, Erie County Medical Center, Buffalo, NY, 14215, USA
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17
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Guifarro DA, De Oliveira-Gomes D, Beas R, Yibrin-Wakim MJ, Montalvan-Sanchez EE. Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis-Autoimmune Hepatitis Overlap Syndrome: Significant Barriers in Liver Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Experienced by the Latino Community. Cureus 2023; 15:e36126. [PMID: 37065404 PMCID: PMC10099648 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.36126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Overlap syndrome (OS) is a term that comprises the presentation of multiple hepatic disease characteristics in the same patient, such as the presence of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) features in addition to primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) or primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Standard therapy for AIH is immunosuppression, while ursodeoxycholic acid is the preferred treatment for PBC. Additionally, liver transplantation (LT) may be considered in severe cases. Hispanics have been found to have a higher prevalence of chronic liver disease and develop more complications associated with portal hypertension at the time of listing for LT. Despite being the fastest-growing population in the USA, Hispanics have a higher probability of not receiving an LT due to issues with social determinants of health (SDOH). It has been reported that Hispanics are more likely to be removed from the transplant list. We report a case of a 25-year-old female immigrant from a Latin American developing country who presented with symptoms consistent with worsening liver disease after years of inappropriate workup and late diagnosis due to barriers within the healthcare system. The patient had a history of unresolved jaundice and pruritus and presented with worsening of her previous symptoms and new onset abdominal distention, bilateral leg edema, and telangiectasias. Laboratory and imaging studies confirmed the diagnosis of AIH and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC-AIH syndrome). The patient was started on steroids, azathioprine, and ursodeoxycholic acid, showing improvement. Due to her migratory status, she could not receive an appropriate diagnosis and follow up with a single provider or healthcare institution, putting her at increased risk for life-threatening complications. Although medical management is the first step, the probability of future liver transplants exists. The patient is still undergoing liver transplant evaluation and completing a workup since she was found to have an elevated model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score. Even with the introduction of new scores and policies that aim to reduce disparities in LT, Hispanic patients are still at higher risk of being removed from the waitlist because of death or clinical deterioration compared to non-Hispanics. To this day, Hispanics have the highest percentage of waitlist deaths (20.8%) of all ethnicities and the lowest overall rate for undergoing LT. Understanding and addressing the causes that could contribute to and explain this phenomenon is essential. Increasing awareness of this problem is vital to promote more research on LT disparities.
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18
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Louissaint J, Dove LM. Navigating the road to liver transplantation equity. Liver Transpl 2023; 29:125-127. [PMID: 36668689 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Louissaint
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Lorna M Dove
- Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
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