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Ulintz AJ, Podolsky SR, Lapin B, Wyllie RR. Addition of community paramedics to a physician home-visit program: A prospective cohort study. J Am Geriatr Soc 2023; 71:3896-3905. [PMID: 37800363 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.18625] [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: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Home-based primary care promotes aging in place but is not immediately responsive to urgent needs. Community paramedicine leverages emergency medical services clinicians to expedite in-home care, though limited evidence supports this model. We evaluated the primary care and acute care use of older adults evaluated urgently by a community paramedic with telemedicine physician compared to a physician home visit model. METHODS This prospective cohort study enrolled older adults in home-based primary care who requested an urgent evaluation. We allocated participants to the physician home visit model or physician home visit plus community paramedic model by ZIP code. We observed primary care and acute care use for 6 months following enrollment. The primary outcome was the median number of primary care and acute care visits per participant. Secondary outcomes included 30-day readmission rates, median wait times, and physician productivity. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, comparison of means and proportions, and negative binomial regression modeling reported as incidence rate ratios (IRR). RESULTS We screened 255 participants, determined 203 eligible, allocated 199, and completed observation for 167 (84 community paramedicine, 83 physician home visit). Participants were mostly female, age 76-86 years, with 3-5 comorbidities, living in a home/apartment. Community paramedic participants had 29% more primary care visits (IRR 1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06-1.57) and shorter wait times for urgent evaluations (1 vs. 5 days, p < 0.001) without increasing acute care use (IRR 0.75, 95% CI 0.48-1.18) or 30-day readmissions (IRR 1.32, 95% CI 0.49-3.55). Physician productivity increased 81% (40 vs. 22 visits/week, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Older adults evaluated by a community paramedic for urgent needs were seen sooner, used acute care similarly to patients evaluated by a physician home visit, and nearly doubled physician efficiency. This suggests that older adults may benefit from combining emergency medical services and primary care resources for urgent evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Ulintz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Seth R Podolsky
- Medical Operations, Legacy Health, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington, USA
| | - Brittany Lapin
- Department of Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Robert R Wyllie
- Medical Operations, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Lurie T, Adibhatla S, Betz G, Palmer J, Raffman A, Andhavarapu S, Harris A, Tran QK, Gingold DB. Mobile integrated health-community paramedicine programs' effect on emergency department visits: An exploratory meta-analysis. Am J Emerg Med 2023; 66:1-10. [PMID: 36640693 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2022.12.041] [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: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mobile Integrated Health Community Paramedicine (MIH-CP) programs are designed to increase access to care and reduce Emergency Department (ED) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) usage. Previous MIH-CP systematic reviews reported varied interventions, effect sizes, and a high prevalence of biased methods. We aimed to perform a meta-analysis on MIH-CP effect on ED visits, and to evaluate study designs' effect on reported effect sizes. We hypothesized biased methods would produce larger reported effect sizes. METHODS We searched Pubmed, Embase, CINAHL, and Scopus databases for peer-reviewed MIH-CP literature from January 1, 2000, to July 24, 2021. We included all full-text English studies whose program met the National Associations of Emergency Medical Technicians definition, reported ED visits, and had an MIH-CP related intervention and outcome. We established risk ratios for each included study through interpreting the reported data. We performed a random-effects and cumulative meta-analysis of ED visit data, tests of heterogeneity, and a moderator analysis to assess for factors influencing the magnitude of observed effect. RESULTS We identified 16 studies that reported ED visit data and included 12 in our meta-analysis. All studies were observational; 3 used matched controls, 6 pre-post controls, and 3 without controls. 7 studies' intervention were diversion/triage while 5 studies intervened with health education/home primary care services. Pooled risk ratio for our data set was 0.56 (95% confidence interval 0.42-0.74). Cumulative meta-analysis revealed that as of 2018 MIH-CP programs began to show consistent reductions in ED visits. Significant heterogeneity was seen among studies, with I-squared >90%. Moderator analysis showed reduced heterogeneity for matched-control studies. CONCLUSION Our data revealed MIH-CP programs were associated with a reduced risk of ED visits. Study design did not have a statistically significant influence on effect size, though it did influence heterogeneity. We would recommend future studies continue to use high levels of control to produce reliable data with lower heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tucker Lurie
- Wellspan York Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, 1001 South George Street, York, PA 17403, USA.
| | - Srikar Adibhatla
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
| | - Gail Betz
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
| | - Jamie Palmer
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
| | - Alison Raffman
- Hennepin County Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, 730 S 8th St, Minneapolis, MN 55415, United States of America.
| | - Sanketh Andhavarapu
- University of Maryland at College Park, College Park, MD 20742, USA; The Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine & Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; 22 South Greene Street, suite P1G01, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
| | - Andrea Harris
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
| | - Quincy K Tran
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 South Paca Street; 6th Floor, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Program in Trauma, The R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; 22 South Greene Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; The Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine & Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; 22 South Greene Street, suite P1G01, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
| | - Daniel B Gingold
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 South Paca Street; 6th Floor, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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Louras N, Reading Turchioe M, Shafran Topaz L, Demetres MR, Ellison M, Abudu-Solo J, Blutinger E, Munjal KG, Daniels B, Masterson Creber RM. Mobile Integrated Health Interventions for Older Adults: A Systematic Review. Innov Aging 2023; 7:igad017. [PMID: 37090165 PMCID: PMC10114527 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igad017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Mobile integrated health (MIH) interventions have not been well described in older adult populations. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the characteristics and effectiveness of MIH programs on health-related outcomes among older adults. Research Design and Methods We searched Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, CINAHL, AgeLine, Social Work Abstracts, and The Cochrane Library through June 2021 for randomized controlled trials or cohort studies evaluating MIH among adults aged 65 and older in the general community. Studies were screened for eligibility against predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Using at least 2 independent reviewers, quality was appraised using the Downs and Black checklist and study characteristics and findings were synthesized and evaluated for potential bias. Results Screening of 2,160 records identified 15 studies. The mean age of participants was 67 years. The MIH interventions varied in their focus, community paramedic training, types of assessments and interventions delivered, physician oversight, use of telemedicine, and post-visit follow-up. Studies reported significant reductions in emergency call volume (5 studies) and immediate emergency department (ED) transports (3 studies). The 3 studies examining subsequent ED visits and 4 studies examining readmission rates reported mixed results. Studies reported low adverse event rates (5 studies), high patient and provider satisfaction (5 studies), and costs equivalent to or less than usual paramedic care (3 studies). Discussion and Implications There is wide variability in MIH provider training, program coordination, and quality-based metrics, creating heterogeneity that make definitive conclusions challenging. Nonetheless, studies suggest MIH reduces emergency call volume and ED transport rates while improving patient experience and reducing overall health care costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Louras
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Leah Shafran Topaz
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Michelle R Demetres
- Samuel J. Wood Library and C.V. Starr Biomedical Information Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Melani Ellison
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jamie Abudu-Solo
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Erik Blutinger
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kevin G Munjal
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Brock Daniels
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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4
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Goldstein J, Lajeunesse D, Abawajy K, Luan A, Hancock K, Carter A, Greene JA, McVey J, Lee JS. Paramedic supportive discharge programmes to improve health system efficiency and patient outcomes: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e066645. [PMID: 36797012 PMCID: PMC9936280 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Discharging older adults with frailty home from the emergency department (ED) poses unique challenges due to multiple interacting physical and social problems. Paramedic supportive discharge services help overcome these challenges by adding in-home assessment and/or interventions. Our objective is to describe existing paramedic programmes designed to support discharge from the ED or hospital to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions. A comprehensive description of paramedic supportive discharge services will be conducted by mapping the literature to describe: (1) why such programmes are needed; (2) who is being targeted, making referrals and delivering the services and (3) what assessments and interventions are offered. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will include studies that focus on expanded paramedic roles (community paramedicine) and extended scope postdischarge from the ED or hospital. All study designs will be included with no limit by language. We will include peer-reviewed articles and preprints and a targeted search of grey literature from January 2000 to June 2022. The proposed scoping review will be conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. We will use a search strategy designed by a health science librarian to search MEDLINE All (Ovid), CINAHL Full Text (EBSCO), Embase (Elsevier) and Scopus (Elsevier) for eligible studies from 2000 to present. Two independent reviewers will conduct screening and full-text review. Data extraction will be conducted by one reviewer and verified by another. We will report our findings descriptively by charting trends in the research. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Research ethics review is not required as this is a scoping review comprised published studies. The results of this research will be published in a manuscript and presented at national and international geriatric and emergency medicine conferences. This research will inform future implementation studies on community paramedic supportive discharge services. REGISTRATION This scoping review protocol was registered in Open Science Framework and can be found here: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/X52P7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judah Goldstein
- Emergency Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Dominic Lajeunesse
- System Performance, Emergency Health Services, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Khadija Abawajy
- Dalhousie Department of Emergency Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Angela Luan
- Emergency Medicine, Sinai Health/ Schwartz/Reisman Emergency Medicine Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kristy Hancock
- Nova Scotia Health, Maritime SPOR SUPPORT Unit, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Alix Carter
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jennifer Anne Greene
- Division of EMS, Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jen McVey
- System Performance, Emergency Health Services, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jacques Simon Lee
- Emergency Medicine, Schwartz Reisman Emergency Medicine Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Adibhatla S, Lurie T, Betz G, Palmer J, Raffman A, Andhavarapu S, Harris A, Tran QK, Gingold DB. A Systematic Review of Methodologies and Outcome Measures of Mobile Integrated Health-Community Paramedicine Programs. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2022; 28:168-178. [PMID: 36260780 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2022.2138654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mobile integrated health-community paramedicine (MIH-CP) uses patient-centered, mobile resources in the out-of-hospital environment to increase access to care and reduce unnecessary emergency department (ED) usage. The objective of this systematic review is to characterize the outcomes and methodologies used by MIH-CP programs around the world and assess the validity of the ways programs evaluate their effectiveness. METHODS The PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Scopus databases were searched for peer-reviewed literature related to MIH-CP programs. We included all full-length studies whose programs met the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians definition, had MIH-CP-related interventions, and measured outcomes. We excluded all non-English papers, abstract-only, and incomplete studies. RESULTS Our initial literature review identified 6434 titles. We screened 178 full-text studies to assess for eligibility and identified 33 studies to include in this review. These 33 include four randomized controlled trials, 17 cohort studies, eight 8 case series, and four 4 cross-sectional studies. Of the 29 non-randomized trials, five used matched controls, 13 used pre-post, and 11 used no controls. Outcomes measured were hospital usage (24 studies), ED visits (15), EMS usage (23), patient satisfaction (8), health-related outcomes (8), and cost (9). Studies that evaluated hospital usage reported one of several outcome measures: hospital admissions (11), ED length of stay (3), and hospital readmission rate (2). EMS usage was measured by ambulance transports (12) and EMS calls (10). Cost outcomes observed were ambulance transport savings (7), ED visit savings (4), hospital admission savings (3), and cost per quality-adjusted life year (2). CONCLUSION Most studies assessing MIH-CP programs reported success of their interventions. However, significant heterogeneity of outcome measures and varying quality of study methodologies exist among studies. Future studies designed with adequately matched controls and applying uniform core metrics for cost savings and health care usage are needed to better evaluate the effectiveness of MIH-CP programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tucker Lurie
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Wellspan York Hospital, York, Pennsylvania
| | - Gail Betz
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jamie Palmer
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Alison Raffman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Sanketh Andhavarapu
- University of Maryland at College Park, College Park, Maryland
- The Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine & Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrea Harris
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Quincy K Tran
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- University of Maryland at College Park, College Park, Maryland
- The Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine & Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Program in Trauma, The R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Daniel B Gingold
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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6
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Agredano RS, Masclans JG, Guix-Comellas EM, Fraile VM, Sarria-Guerrero JA, Pola MS, Fabrellas N. Older Adults With Complex Chronic Conditions Who Receive Care at Home: The Importance of Primary Care Assessment. J Gerontol Nurs 2021; 47:31-38. [PMID: 34704867 DOI: 10.3928/00989134-20211013-02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The current study aimed to describe the characteristics of older adults with complex chronic conditions cared for at home. One hundred thirty-eight participants were recruited. Participants' average age was 85.9 years and 69.6% were female. Poly-pharmacy was present in 89.9% of participants. Participants who presented with polypharmacy had a worse self-perception of health (p = 0.002), and the worst fall rate. A total of 22.5% had experienced a fall during the past 6 months. Approximately one half of participants rated their self-perceived quality of life as bad or very bad. The percentage who used emergency services (54.3%) was greater than the percentage who needed to be admitted (43.5%). A worse self-perception of physical health was significantly associated with hospital admissions (p = 0.01). Geriatric assessment by nurses can provide information to improve care in situations in which frailty, dependency, and chronic conditions occur together. Obtaining information on the needs of individuals with frailty is important in designing successful nursing interventions. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 47(11), 31-38.].
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Abstract
With health care costs continuing to rise, much attention has been focused on appropriate emergency department (ED) utilization, and nationwide interventions have been developed to support reduction in health care costs and ED use including primary care, community, and home health models. The following is a review of the current state of the evidence regarding patients receiving home health care nursing (HHN) services and impacts on ED utilization. There are significant gaps in the literature regarding the transition from home to ED in patients receiving HHN services; what tools are utilized by home health nurses for triage of patients at home in order to recommend transfer to the ED or other care sources; and what measures are in place for HHN patients regarding variables that are considered to have a higher impact on ED utilization. There is a substantial lack of evidence about whether the effects of HHN services have any relation to, in particular decreasing, ED utilization. There is increasing evidence of the impacts of nurse practitioner care within the community.
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8
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Ouchi K, Liu S, Tonellato D, Keschner YG, Kennedy M, Levine DM. Home hospital as a disposition for older adults from the emergency department: Benefits and opportunities. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 2021; 2:e12517. [PMID: 34322684 PMCID: PMC8295243 DOI: 10.1002/emp2.12517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The $1 trillion industry of acute hospital care in the United States is shifting from inside the walls of the hospital to patient homes. To tackle the limitations of current hospital care in the United States, on November 25, 2020, the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced that the acute hospital care at home waiver would reimburse for "home hospital" services. A "home hospital" is the home-based provision of acute services usually associated with the traditional inpatient hospital setting. Prior work suggests that home hospital care can reduce costs, maintain quality and safety, and improve patient experiences for select acutely ill adults who require hospital-level care. However, most emergency physicians are unfamiliar with the evidence of benefits demonstrated by home hospital services, especially for older adults. Therefore, the lead author solicited narrative inputs on this topic from selected experts in emergency medicine and home hospital services with clinical experience, publications, and funding on home hospital care. Then we sought to identify information most relevant to the practice of emergency medicine. We outline the proven and potential benefits of home hospital services specific to older adults compared to traditional acute care hospitalization with a focus on the emergency department.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kei Ouchi
- Department of Emergency MedicineBrigham and Women's HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Shan Liu
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Emergency MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Daniel Tonellato
- Department of Emergency MedicineMedStar Georgetown University HospitalWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
- Department of Emergency MedicineGeorgetown University School of MedicineWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Yonatan G. Keschner
- Department of Emergency MedicineBrigham and Women's HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Emergency MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Maura Kennedy
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Emergency MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - David M. Levine
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Primary CareBrigham and Women's HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
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Luck KE, Doucet S. A rapid review exploring nurse-led memory clinics. Nurs Open 2021; 8:1538-1549. [PMID: 34102023 PMCID: PMC8186716 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS To systematically explore the structures, functions, outcomes, roles and nursing credentials of memory clinics where nurses autonomously lead diagnosis and postdiagnostic care. DESIGN A systematic rapid review was conducted. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL Full-Text (EBSCO) and EMBASE were systematically searched in December 2019 with no timeframe limitations imposed. REVIEW METHODS The modified PRISMA checklist was used as a guide to facilitate the review. Articles identified were screened and assessed for inclusion criteria, and screening of reference lists of included studies was also completed. RESULTS Six articles, published between 2011-2019, including two case studies, two descriptive reports, one qualitative study and one programme evaluation were included in the review. Nurse-led memory clinics were situated in community centres, on university campuses, hospitals and in general practitioners' offices. The services offered included assessment, diagnosis and treatment/postdiagnostic care. Nurse credentials included advanced practice nurses and a community psychiatric nurse who was a non-medical prescriber. Overall, there was low quantity and quality of evidence to evaluate outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shelley Doucet
- University of New BrunswickSaint JohnNBCanada
- Dalhousie Medicine New BrunswickSaint JohnNBCanada
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10
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van Vuuren J, Thomas B, Agarwal G, MacDermott S, Kinsman L, O'Meara P, Spelten E. Reshaping healthcare delivery for elderly patients: the role of community paramedicine; a systematic review. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:29. [PMID: 33407406 PMCID: PMC7789625 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-06037-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Healthcare systems are overloaded and changing. In response to growing demands on the healthcare systems, new models of healthcare delivery are emerging. Community paramedicine is a novel approach in which paramedics use their knowledge and skills beyond emergency health response to contribute to preventative and rehabilitative health. In our systematic review, we aimed to identify evidence of the community paramedicine role in care delivery for elderly patients, with an additional focus on palliative care, and the possible impact of this role on the wider healthcare system. Methods A systematic review of peer-reviewed literature from MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Sciences was undertaken to identify relevant full-text articles in English published until October 3, 2019. Additional inclusion criteria were studies focussing on extended care paramedics or community paramedics caring for elderly patients. Case studies were excluded. All papers were screened by at least two authors and underwent a quality assessment, using the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal checklists for cross sectional, qualitative, cohort, and randomised controlled trial studies to assess the methodological quality of the articles. A process of narrative synthesis was used to summarise the data. Results Ten studies, across 13 articles, provided clear evidence that Community Paramedic programs had a positive impact on the health of patients and on the wider healthcare system. The role of a Community Paramedic was often a combination of four aspects: assessment, referral, education and communication. Limited evidence was available on the involvement of Community Paramedics in palliative and end-of-life care and in care delivery in residential aged care facilities. Observed challenges were a lack of additional training, and the need for proper integration and understanding of their role in the healthcare system. Conclusions The use of community paramedics in care delivery could be beneficial to both patients’ health and the wider healthcare system. They already play a promising role in improving the care of our elderly population. With consistent adherence to the training curriculum and effective integration within the wider healthcare system, community paramedics have the potential to take on specialised roles in residential aged care facilities and palliative and end-of-life care. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-020-06037-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia van Vuuren
- Department of Community Health, Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Brodie Thomas
- Department of Community Health, Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gina Agarwal
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Sean MacDermott
- Department of Community Health, Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Leigh Kinsman
- University of Newcastle and Mid-North Coast Local Health District, Port Macquarie Base Hospital, Port Macquarie, Australia
| | - Peter O'Meara
- Department of Paramedicine, Monash University, Peninsula Campus, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Evelien Spelten
- Department of Community Health, Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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11
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Prajankett O, Markaki A. Integrated older people care and advanced practice nursing: an evidence-based review. Int Nurs Rev 2020; 68:67-77. [PMID: 32893354 DOI: 10.1111/inr.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIM To critically appraise and synthesize evidence of integrated care stemming from advanced practice nursing in elderly primary care settings throughout the United States and Thailand. BACKGROUND Advanced practice nurses are key to accelerating integrated elderly care in the community. Yet, their scope and capacity vary greatly across countries, making impact measurement highly challenging. METHODS A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus and ThaiJo databases was performed. Full-text articles in English or Thai language were reviewed using an inductive thematic approach from the integrated people-centred Health Services framework, adopted by the World Health Organization. RESULTS A total of 42 articles were appraised according to framework strategies: (1) people and community empowerment/engagement; (2) governance and accountability strengthening; (3) model of care reorientation; (4) service coordination; and (5) enabling environment creation. Collaborative roles and empowerment of older people were associated with higher quality of care. Thai nurses empowered individuals through community networks and resources, incorporating care models (strategy 1). In contrast, US nurses adopted a quality improvement and safety approach, incorporating technology into nursing interventions (strategy 5). CONCLUSION Advanced practice nurses employ an array of strategies and approaches in caring for older people. Although their role varies from mostly substitute (US) to supplemental (Thailand), nurses in both countries contribute towards integrated person-centred care. IMPLICATION FOR NURSING PRACTICE AND NURSING POLICY Preparing advanced practice nurses to work in the community is a prerequisite for meeting ageing population health needs in a sustainable manner. Education, professional development and leadership training opportunities should focus on capacity building in: a) strengthening mutual accountability, b) reorienting the work environment through innovative care models and c) coordinating services through partnerships to achieve universal health and ensure healthy ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Prajankett
- International Visiting Scholar, School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.,Community Health Nursing Department, Academic Affairs Division, The Royal Thai Army Nursing College, Ratchathewi, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - A Markaki
- WHO Collaborating Center for International Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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12
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Cheung DSK, Kwan RYC, Wong ASW, Ho LYW, Chin KC, Liu JYW, Tse MMY, Lai CKY. Factors Associated With Improving or Worsening the State of Frailty: A Secondary Data Analysis of a 5-Year Longitudinal Study. J Nurs Scholarsh 2020; 52:515-526. [PMID: 32741137 DOI: 10.1111/jnu.12588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to examine the frailty transition patterns of older adults recruited from both community and residential care settings within a 5-year period, and to identify the physical and psychosocial factors associated with the transitions. DESIGN This study is a secondary data analysis of a longitudinal study for tracking the change of health status of older adults 60 years of age or older. Participants who had undergone at least two assessments during 2013-2017 were selected for analysis. Guided by the Gobben's Frailty Model, biopsychosocial predictors were comprehensively identified from the literature, and their relationship to frailty state transition was explored. METHODS We compared the baseline characteristics of participants at the frail, pre-frail, and robust states (categorized using the Fried Frailty Index). A generalized estimating equation was used to identify factors associated with an improvement or a deterioration in frailty. The probability of transitions between frailty states was calculated. FINDINGS Among the 306 participants, 19% (n = 59) improved and 30% (n = 92) declined in frailty within the project period. Sleep difficulties (odds ratio [OR] = 1.76; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-2.90; p = .027), better cognitive status (OR = 0.80-0.84; 95% CI: 0.66-0.98 and 0.73-2.73; p = .031 and .018), good nutritional status (OR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.59-0.91; p = .005), slow mobility (OR = 1.03-1.13; 95% CI: 1.00-1.05 and 1.03-1.25; p = .047 and .014), hearing impairment (OR = 2.83; 95% CI: 1.00-8.01; p = .05), better quality of health-physical domain (OR = 0.95; 95% CI: 0.92-0.99; p = .006), and better functional ability (OR = 0.85-0.97; 95% CI: 0.79-0.92 and 0.96-0.99; p < .001 and p = .003) were significant associated factors in the worsening group. More physical activity (OR = 1.01; 95% CI: 1.00-1.01 and 1.01-1.02; p = .026 and p < .001), hearing impairment (OR = 0.26; 95% CI: 0.08-0.86; p = .028), and slow mobility (OR = 0.93; 95% CI: 0.87-1.00; p = .037) were significant associated factors in the improvement group. CONCLUSIONS Frailty is a crucial global public health issue. This study provides evidence for nurses to holistically consider the associated factors and to design effective interventions to combat frailty in our ageing society. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Frailty is a transient state that can be reversed. Professional nurses working in both community and residential care settings should be able to identify older adults at risk and improve their health conditions appropriately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphne Sze Ki Cheung
- Assistant Professor, Centre for Gerontological Nursing, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Rick Yiu Cho Kwan
- Assistant Professor, Centre for Gerontological Nursing, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Anthony Siu Wo Wong
- Research Assistant, Centre for Gerontological Nursing, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Lily Yuen Wah Ho
- Clinical Instructor, Centre for Gerontological Nursing, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Kenny Cw Chin
- Statistical Consultant, Centre for Gerontological Nursing, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Justina Yat Wah Liu
- Associate Professor, Centre for Gerontological Nursing, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Mimi Mun Yee Tse
- Associate Professor, Centre for Gerontological Nursing, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Claudia Kam Yuk Lai
- Honorary Professor, Centre for Gerontological Nursing, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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Impact of Advanced Practice Prehospital Programs on Health Care Costs and ED Overcrowding: A Literature Review. Adv Emerg Nurs J 2020; 42:128-136. [PMID: 32358429 DOI: 10.1097/tme.0000000000000291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Health care costs in the United States continue to increase, requiring solutions that permit safe, quality care with a lower financial investment. Utilization of the emergency department for nonemergent care is considered to be one of the costliest, and most preventable methods of health care delivery. This review seeks to demonstrate how advanced practice prehospital programs can potentially decrease the cost of health care without sacrificing quality or safety. Utilization of the emergency department for nonemergent care contributes to the escalating cost of health care as well as to emergency department overcrowding. Advanced practice prehospital programs are a novel approach to potentially decreasing health care costs and emergency department overcrowding. This review introduces the current state of health care costs, emergency department overcrowding, and advanced practice prehospital programs. Further research is needed to determine the actual fiscal impact of these programs.
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14
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Thurman WA, Moczygemba LR, Tormey K, Hudzik A, Welton-Arndt L, Okoh C. A scoping review of community paramedicine: evidence and implications for interprofessional practice. J Interprof Care 2020; 35:229-239. [PMID: 32233898 DOI: 10.1080/13561820.2020.1732312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Community paramedicine (CP) is an evolving method of providing community-based health care in which paramedics function outside of their traditional emergency response roles in order to improve access to primary and preventive health care and to basic social services. Early evidence indicates that CP programs have contributed to reducing health care utilization and improving patient outcomes leading some to call for a transformation of EMS into value-based mobile healthcare fully integrated within an interprofessional care team. The purpose of this scoping review was to understand the evidence base of CP in order to inform the further evolution of this model of care. Following the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews, 1,163 titles were screened by our research team. Eligibility criteria were publication in English after January 1, 2000; description of a CP program located in a Western nation; and inclusion of a discussion of outcomes. Twenty-nine publications met the criteria for inclusion. The literature was varied in terms of study design, program purpose, and target audience. The lack of rigorous, longitudinal studies with control groups makes rendering conclusions as to the value and effectiveness of CP programs difficult. Further, the extent to which community paramedics operate within interprofessional teams remains unclear. However, some programs demonstrated improvement in both health services and patient outcomes. As stakeholders continue to explore the potential of CP, results of this review highlight the importance of further investigation of outcomes, the professional identity of the community paramedic, and the role of the community paramedic on interprofessional teams.
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