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Laurido-Soto OJ, Faust IM, Nielsen SS, Racette BA. Adherence to practice parameters in Medicare beneficiaries with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304083. [PMID: 38829866 PMCID: PMC11146737 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304083] [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] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Physician adherence to evidence-based clinical practice parameters impacts outcomes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. We sought to investigate compliance with the 2009 practice parameters for treatment of ALS patients in the United States, and sociodemographic and provider characteristics associated with adherence. METHODS In this population-based, retrospective cohort study of incident ALS patients in 2009-2014, we included all Medicare beneficiaries age ≥20 with ≥1 International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification ALS code (335.20) in 2009 and no prior years (N = 8,575). Variables of interest included race/ethnicity, sex, age, urban residence, Area Deprivation Index (ADI), and provider specialty (neurologist vs. non-neurologist). Outcomes were use of practice parameters, which included feeding tubes, non-invasive ventilation (NIV), riluzole, and receiving care from a neurologist. RESULTS Overall, 42.9% of patients with ALS received neurologist care. Black beneficiaries (odds ratio [OR] 0.56, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.47-0.67), older beneficiaries (OR 0.964, 95% CI 0.961-0.968 per year), and those living in disadvantaged areas (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.61-0.80) received less care from neurologists. Overall, only 26.7% of beneficiaries received a feeding tube, 19.2% NIV, and 15.3% riluzole. Neurologist-treated patients were more likely to receive interventions than other ALS patients: feeding tube (OR 2.80, 95% CI 2.52-3.11); NIV (OR 10.8, 95% CI 9.28-12.6); and riluzole (OR 7.67, 95% CI 6.13-9.58), after adjusting for sociodemographics. These associations remained marked and significant when we excluded ALS patients who subsequently received a code for other diseases that mimic ALS. CONCLUSIONS ALS patients treated by neurologists received care consistent with practice parameters more often than those not treated by a neurologist. Black, older, and disadvantaged beneficiaries received less care consistent with the practice parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osvaldo J. Laurido-Soto
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Irene M. Faust
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Susan Searles Nielsen
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Brad A. Racette
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Sullivan-Baca E, Tantillo G, Zhou R, Rehman R, Raquel Lopez M, Haneef Z. Comorbidities in Hispanic/Latino Veterans with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 157:109871. [PMID: 38833739 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hispanic/Latino people with epilepsy may be at a differential risk of medical and psychiatric comorbidities given genetic, environmental, sociocultural, and quality of care factors. In people with epilepsy, comorbidities are especially crucial to investigate given the well-known impact on quality of life and risk of adverse outcomes. Yet, Hispanic/Latino Veterans with Epilepsy (HL-VWE) remain an understudied population. The present nationwide population study sought to investigate medical and psychiatric comorbidities in this group. METHODS Data from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Corporate Data Warehouse administrative data were used to identify 56,556 VWE (5.7 % HL-VWE) using a one-year cross-sectional analysis of ICD codes. Elixhauser Comorbidity Index scores and psychiatric diagnoses were calculated based on ICD-9/ICD-10-CM diagnoses using a lookback period. Comparisons were made between HL-VWE and non-HL-VWE using chi-squared and student t-tests. Regression analyses were then performed to examine group differences while accounting for age. RESULTS HL-VWE had higher probability of being diagnosed with several psychiatric conditions when accounting for age, including depression (OR 1.21, 95 % CI 1.13-1.31) and schizophrenia (OR 1.56, 95 % CI 1.31-1.84). There were no significant differences in medical comorbidities between the HL-VWE and non-HL-VWE groups. CONCLUSIONS We present results from the largest known study of HL people with epilepsy examining their psychiatric and medical comorbidities and one of the first to specifically study HL-VWE. Compared to non-HL-VWE, the Hispanic/Latino group had comparable medical comorbidity, but higher rates of multiple psychiatric conditions. Results indicate a need for increased screening and interventions in this population to reduce psychiatric disease burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Sullivan-Baca
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States; Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Gabriela Tantillo
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Richard Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
| | - Rizwana Rehman
- Durham VA Medical Center, 508 Fulton St., Durham, NC 27705, United States.
| | - María Raquel Lopez
- Miami VA Medical Center, 1201 NW 16th Street, Miami, FL 33125, United States; Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1600 NW 10th Ave, Miami, FL 33136, United States.
| | - Zulfi Haneef
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States; Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, United States.
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Tian N, Kobau R, Friedman D, Liu Y, Eke PI, Greenlund KJ. Mortality and mortality disparities among people with epilepsy in the United States, 2011-2021. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 155:109770. [PMID: 38636143 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109770] [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: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Studies on epilepsy mortality in the United States are limited. We used the National Vital Statistics System Multiple Cause of Death data to investigate mortality rates and trends during 2011-2021 for epilepsy (defined by the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, codes G40.0-G40.9) as an underlying, contributing, or any cause of death (i.e., either an underlying or contributing cause) for U.S. residents. We also examined epilepsy as an underlying or contributing cause of death by selected sociodemographic characteristics to assess mortality rate changes and disparities in subpopulations. During 2011-2021, the overall age-standardized mortality rates for epilepsy as an underlying (39 % of all deaths) or contributing (61 % of all deaths) cause of death increased 83.6 % (from 2.9 per million to 6.4 per million population) as underlying cause and 144.1 % (from 3.3 per million to 11.0 per million population) as contributing cause (P < 0.001 for both based on annual percent changes). Compared to 2011-2015, in 2016-2020 mortality rates with epilepsy as an underlying or contributing cause of death were higher overall and in nearly all subgroups. Overall, mortality rates with epilepsy as an underlying or contributing cause of death were higher in older age groups, among males than females, among non-Hispanic Black or non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native persons than non-Hispanic White persons, among those living in the West and Midwest than those living in the Northeast, and in nonmetro counties compared to urban regions. Results identify priority subgroups for intervention to reduce mortality in people with epilepsy and eliminate mortality disparity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niu Tian
- Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
| | - Rosemarie Kobau
- Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Daniel Friedman
- Department of Neurology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016 USA
| | - Yong Liu
- Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Paul I Eke
- Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Kurt J Greenlund
- Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
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Gotlieb E, Agarwal P, Blank LJ, Kwon CS, Muxfeldt M, Young JJ, Jette N. Disparities in Teleneurology Use in Medicaid Beneficiaries With Epilepsy by Practice Setting: Promoting Health Equity in Academic Centers. Neurology 2024; 102:e209348. [PMID: 38608210 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000209348] [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: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Medicaid beneficiaries in many American academic medical centers can receive care in a separate facility than those not covered by Medicaid. We aimed to identify possible disparities in care by evaluating the association between facility type (integrated faculty practice or Medicaid-only outpatient clinic) and telehealth utilization in people with epilepsy. METHODS We performed retrospective analyses using structured data from the Mount Sinai Health System electronic medical record data from January 2003 to August 2021. We identified people of all ages with epilepsy who were followed by an epileptologist after January 3, 2018, using a validated ICD-9-CM/10-CM coded case definition. We evaluated associations between practice setting and telehealth utilization, an outcome measure that captures the evolving delivery of neurologic care in a post-coronavirus disease 2019 era, using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS We identified 4,586 people with epilepsy seen by an epileptologist, including Medicaid beneficiaries in the Medicaid outpatient clinic (N = 387), Medicaid beneficiaries in the faculty practice after integration (N = 723), and non-Medicaid beneficiaries (N = 3,476). Patients not insured by Medicaid were significantly older (average age 40 years vs 29 in persons seen in Medicaid-only outpatient clinic and 28.5 in persons insured with Medicaid seen in faculty practice [p < 0.0001]). Medicaid beneficiaries were more likely to have drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), with 51.94% of people seen in Medicaid-only outpatient clinic, 41.63% of Medicaid beneficiaries seen in faculty practice, and 37.2% of non-Medicaid beneficiaries having DRE (p < 0.0001). Medicaid outpatient clinic patients were less likely to have telehealth visits (phone or video); 81.65% of patients in the Medicaid outpatient clinic having no telehealth visits vs 71.78% of Medicaid beneficiaries in the faculty practice and 70.89% of non-Medicaid beneficiaries (p < 0.0001). In an adjusted logistic regression analysis, Medicaid beneficiaries had lower odds (0.61; 95% CI 0.46-0.81) of using teleneurology compared with all patients seen in faculty practice (p = 0.0005). DISCUSSION Compared with the Medicaid-only outpatient clinic, we found higher telehealth utilization in the integrated faculty practice with no difference by insurance status (Medicaid vs other). Integrated care may be associated with better health care delivery in people with epilepsy; thus, future research should examine its impact on other epilepsy-related outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Gotlieb
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Parul Agarwal
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Leah J Blank
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Churl-Su Kwon
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Maria Muxfeldt
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - James J Young
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Nathalie Jette
- From the Departments of Neurology (L.J.B., M.M., J.J.Y., N.J.), Population Health Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), and Policy and Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science (P.A., L.J.B., N.J.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (E.G., P.A.), New York; Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Epidemiology, and the Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center (C.-S.K.), Columbia University, New York, NY; and Department of Clinical Neurosciences (N.J.), University of Calgary, AB, Canada
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Tantillo GB, Dongarwar D, Venkatasubba Rao CP, Johnson A, Camey S, Reyes O, Baroni M, Kapur J, Salihu HM, Jetté N. Health care disparities in morbidity and mortality in adults with acute and remote status epilepticus: A national study. Epilepsia 2024. [PMID: 38687128 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although disparities have been described in epilepsy care, their contribution to status epilepticus (SE) and associated outcomes remains understudied. METHODS We used the 2010-2019 National Inpatient Sample to identify SE hospitalizations using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM)/ICD-10-CM codes. SE prevalence was stratified by demographics. Logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with electroencephalographic (EEG) monitoring, intubation, tracheostomy, gastrostomy, and mortality. RESULTS There were 486 861 SE hospitalizations (2010-2019), primarily at urban teaching hospitals (71.3%). SE prevalence per 10 000 admissions was 27.3 for non-Hispanic (NH)-Blacks, 16.1 for NH-Others, 15.8 for Hispanics, and 13.7 for NH-Whites (p < .01). SE prevalence was higher in the lowest (18.7) compared to highest income quartile (18.7 vs. 14, p < .01). Older age was associated with intubation, tracheostomy, gastrostomy, and in-hospital mortality. Those ≥80 years old had the highest odds of intubation (odds ratio [OR] = 1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.43-1.58), tracheostomy (OR = 2, 95% CI = 1.75-2.27), gastrostomy (OR = 3.37, 95% CI = 2.97-3.83), and in-hospital mortality (OR = 6.51, 95% CI = 5.95-7.13). Minority populations (NH-Black, NH-Other, and Hispanic) had higher odds of tracheostomy and gastrostomy compared to NH-White populations. NH-Black people had the highest odds of tracheostomy (OR = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.57-1.86) and gastrostomy (OR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.65-1.92). The odds of receiving EEG monitoring rose progressively with higher income quartile (OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.34-1.62 for the highest income quartile) and was higher for those in urban teaching compared to rural hospitals (OR = 12.72, 95% CI = 8.92-18.14). Odds of mortality were lower (compared to NH-Whites) in NH-Blacks (OR = .71, 95% CI = .67-.75), Hispanics (OR = .82, 95% CI = .76-.89), and those in the highest income quartiles (OR = .9, 95% CI = .84-.97). SIGNIFICANCE Disparities exist in SE prevalence, tracheostomy, and gastrostomy utilization across age, race/ethnicity, and income. Older age and lower income are also associated with mortality. Access to EEG monitoring is modulated by income and urban teaching hospital status. Older adults, racial/ethnic minorities, and populations of lower income or rural location may represent vulnerable populations meriting increased attention to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela B Tantillo
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Deepa Dongarwar
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Amari Johnson
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Stephanie Camey
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Oriana Reyes
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mariana Baroni
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jaideep Kapur
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Hamisu M Salihu
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Nathalie Jetté
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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6
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Lolk K, Werenberg Dreier J, Christensen J. Individual and neighborhood-level socioeconomic deprivation and risk of epilepsy after traumatic brain Injury: A register-based cohort study. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 156:109807. [PMID: 38678986 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Kasper Lolk
- National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Denmark; Centre for Integrated Register-based Research, CIRRAU, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Julie Werenberg Dreier
- National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Denmark; Centre for Integrated Register-based Research, CIRRAU, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jakob Christensen
- National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Denmark; Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
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Hamilton RH. Building an ethnically and racially diverse neurology workforce. Nat Rev Neurol 2024; 20:222-231. [PMID: 38388568 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-024-00941-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
As diversity among patient populations continues to grow, racial and ethnic diversity in the neurology workforce is increasingly essential to the delivery of culturally competent care and for enabling inclusive, generalizable clinical research. Unfortunately, diversity in the workforce is an area in which the field of neurology has historically lagged and faces formidable challenges, including an inadequate number of trainees entering the field, bias experienced by trainees and faculty from minoritized racial and ethnic backgrounds, and 'diversity tax', the disproportionate burden of service work placed on minoritized people in many professions. Although neurology departments, professional organizations and relevant industry partners have come to realize the importance of diversity to the field and have taken steps to promote careers in neurology for people from minoritized backgrounds, additional steps are needed. Such steps include the continued creation of diversity leadership roles in neurology departments and organizations, the creation of robust pipeline programmes, aggressive recruitment and retention efforts, the elevation of health equity research and engagement with minoritized communities. Overall, what is needed is a shift in culture in which diversity is adopted as a core value in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy H Hamilton
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Perez MA, Reyes-Esteves S, Mendizabal A. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Neurological Care in the United States. Semin Neurol 2024; 44:178-192. [PMID: 38485124 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1778639] [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: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
The burden of neurological disease is increasing globally. In the United States, this burden is disproportionally greater for Black and Latino communities who have limited access to neurological care. Health services researchers have attempted to identify racial and ethnic disparities in neurological care and possible solutions. This article reviews the most current literature on racial and ethnic disparities in commonly encountered neurological conditions, including Stroke, Alzheimer's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Epilepsy, Parkinson's Disease, and Migraine. Disparities exist in disease incidence, diagnosis, access to care, treatment, outcomes, and representation in epidemiologic studies and clinical trials. Many of the disparities observed in neurological care in the United States are a consequence of longstanding racist and discriminatory policies and legislation that increase risk factors for the development of neurological disease or lead to disparities in accessing quality neurological care. Therefore, additional efforts on the legislative, community health, and healthcare system levels are necessary to prevent the onset of neurological disease and achieve equity in neurological care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Perez
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Adys Mendizabal
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, California
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9
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Lado FA, Ahrens SM, Riker E, Muh CR, Richardson RM, Gray J, Small B, Lewis SZ, Schofield TJ, Clarke DF, Hopp JL, Lee RR, Salpekar JA, Arnold ST. Guidelines for Specialized Epilepsy Centers: Executive Summary of the Report of the National Association of Epilepsy Centers Guideline Panel. Neurology 2024; 102:e208087. [PMID: 38306606 PMCID: PMC10962912 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000208087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The National Association of Epilepsy Centers first published the guidelines for epilepsy centers in 1990, which were last updated in 2010. Since that update, epilepsy care and the science of guideline development have advanced significantly, including the importance of incorporating a diversity of stakeholder perspectives such as those of patients and their caregivers. Currently, despite extensive published data examining the efficacy of treatments and diagnostic testing for epilepsy, there remain significant gaps in data identifying the essential services needed for a comprehensive epilepsy center and the optimal manner for their delivery. The trustworthy consensus-based statements (TCBS) process produces unbiased, scientifically valid guidelines through a transparent process that incorporates available evidence and expert opinion. A systematic literature search returned 5937 relevant studies from which 197 articles were retained for data extraction. A panel of 41 stakeholders with diverse expertise evaluated this evidence and drafted recommendations following the TCBS process. The panel reached consensus on 52 recommendations covering services provided by specialized epilepsy centers in both the inpatient and outpatient settings in major topic areas including epilepsy monitoring unit care, surgery, neuroimaging, neuropsychology, genetics, and outpatient care. Recommendations were informed by the evidence review and reflect the consensus of a broad panel of expert opinions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred A Lado
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Stephanie M Ahrens
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Ellen Riker
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Carrie R Muh
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - R Mark Richardson
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Johanna Gray
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Barbara Small
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Sandra Z Lewis
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Thomas J Schofield
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Dave F Clarke
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Jennifer L Hopp
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Roland R Lee
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Jay A Salpekar
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
| | - Susan T Arnold
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (F.A.L.), Hempstead, NY; The Ohio State University College of Medicine (S.M.A.), Columbus; National Association of Epilepsy Centers (E.R., J.G., B.S.), Washington, DC; New York Medical College (C.R.M.), Valhalla, NY; Harvard Medical School (R.M.R.), Boston, MA; EBQ Consulting (S.Z.L., T.J.S.), Santa Monica, CA; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School (D.F.C.); University of Maryland School of Medicine (J.L.H.), Baltimore; University of California San Diego School of Medicine (R.R.L.); Johns Hopkins University Medical School (J.A.S.), Baltimore, MD; Yale School of Medicine (S.T.A.), New Haven, CT
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10
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Howard SD, Campbell PA, Montgomery CT, Tomlinson SB, Ojukwu DI, Chen HI, Chin MH. Effect of Race and Insurance Type on Access to, and Outcomes of, Epilepsy Surgery: A Literature Review. World Neurosurg 2023; 178:202-212.e2. [PMID: 37543199 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.07.138] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite higher rates of seizure freedom, a large proportion of patients with medically refractory seizures who could benefit from epilepsy surgery do not receive surgical treatment. This literature review describes the association of race and insurance status with epilepsy surgery access and outcomes. METHODS Searches in Scopus and PubMed databases related to disparities in epilepsy surgery were conducted. The inclusion criteria consisted of data that could be used to compare epilepsy surgery patient access and outcomes by insurance or race in the United States. Two independent reviewers determined article eligibility. RESULTS Of the 289 studies reviewed, 26 were included. Most of the studies were retrospective cohort studies (23 of 26) and national admissions database studies (13 of 26). Of the 17 studies that evaluated epilepsy surgery patient demographics, 11 showed that Black patients were less likely to receive surgery than were White patients or had an increased time to surgery from seizure onset. Nine studies showed that patients with private insurance were more likely to undergo epilepsy surgery and have shorter time to surgery compared with patients with public insurance. No significant association was found between the seizure recurrence rate after surgery with insurance or race. CONCLUSIONS Black patients and patients with public insurance are receiving epilepsy surgery at lower rates after a prolonged waiting period compared with other patients with medically refractory epilepsy. These results are consistent across the current reported literature. Future efforts should focus on additional characterization and potential causes of these disparities to develop successful interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna D Howard
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
| | - Paige-Ashley Campbell
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Canada T Montgomery
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Samuel B Tomlinson
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Disep I Ojukwu
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - H Isaac Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Marshall H Chin
- Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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11
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Kamitaki BK, Zhang P, Master A, Adler S, Jain S, Thomas-Hawkins C, Lin H, Cantor JC, Choi H. Differences in elective epilepsy monitoring unit admission rates by race/ethnicity and primary payer in New Jersey. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 136:108923. [PMID: 36166877 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108923] [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: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Elective admission to the epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) is an essential service provided by epilepsy centers, particularly for those with drug-resistant epilepsy. Given previously characterized racial and socioeconomic healthcare disparities in the management of epilepsy, we sought to understand access and utilization of this service in New Jersey (NJ). We examined epilepsy hospitalizations in NJ between 2014 and 2016 using state inpatient and emergency department (ED) databases. We stratified admissions by race/ethnicity and primary payer and used these to estimate and compare (1) admission rates per capita in NJ, as well as (2) admission rates per number of ED visits for each group. Patients without insurance underwent elective EMU admission at the lowest rates across all racial/ethnic groups and payer types studied. Black patients with Medicaid and private insurance were admitted at disproportionately low rates relative to their number of ED visits. Hispanic/Latino and Asian/Pacific Islanders with private insurance, Hispanic/Latinos with Medicaid, and Asian/Pacific Islanders with Medicare were also admitted at low rates per capita within each respective payer category. Future studies should focus on addressing causal factors driving healthcare disparities in epilepsy, particularly for patients without adequate health insurance coverage and those who have been historically underserved by the healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brad K Kamitaki
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Department of Neurology, 125 Paterson Street, Suite 6200, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA.
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Department of Neurology, 125 Paterson Street, Suite 6200, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Aditi Master
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 675 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Shoshana Adler
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 675 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Saloni Jain
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 675 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Charlotte Thomas-Hawkins
- Rutgers University School of Nursing, Division of Nursing Science, 180 University Ave, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Haiqun Lin
- Rutgers University School of Nursing, Division of Nursing Science, 180 University Ave, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Joel C Cantor
- Rutgers University, Center for State Health Policy, 112 Paterson Street, 5th Floor, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Hyunmi Choi
- Columbia University, Department of Neurology, 710 West 168(th) Street, 7(th) Floor, New York, NY 10032, USA
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12
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Premature discontinuation among individuals with epilepsy participating in epilepsy self-management research interventions. Epilepsy Res 2022; 187:107034. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.107034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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13
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Baumer FM, Mytinger JR, Neville K, Briscoe Abath C, Gutierrez CA, Numis AL, Harini C, He Z, Hussain SA, Berg AT, Chu CJ, Gaillard WD, Loddenkemper T, Pasupuleti A, Samanata D, Singh RK, Singhal NS, Wusthoff CJ, Wirrell EC, Yozawitz E, Knupp KG, Shellhaas RA, Grinspan ZM. Inequities in therapy for infantile spasms: a call to action. Ann Neurol 2022; 92:32-44. [PMID: 35388521 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether selection of treatment for children with infantile spasms (IS) varies by race/ethnicity. METHODS The prospective US National Infantile Spasms Consortium database includes children with IS treated from 2012-2018. We examined the relationship between race/ethnicity and receipt of standard IS therapy (prednisolone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, vigabatrin), adjusting for demographic and clinical variables using logistic regression. Our primary outcome was treatment course, which considered therapy prescribed for the first and, when needed, the second IS treatment together. RESULTS Of 555 children, 324 (58%) were Non-Hispanic white, 55 (10%) Non-Hispanic Black, 24 (4%) Non-Hispanic Asian, 80 (14%) Hispanic, and 72 (13%) Other/Unknown. Most (398, 72%) received a standard treatment course. Insurance type, geographic location, history of prematurity, prior seizures, developmental delay or regression, abnormal head circumference, hypsarrhythmia, and IS etiologies were associated with standard therapy. In adjusted models, Non-Hispanic Black children had lower odds of receiving a standard treatment course compared with Non-Hispanic white children (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.20-0.89, p = 0.02). Adjusted models also showed that children with public (vs. private) insurance had lower odds of receiving standard therapy for treatment 1 (OR 0.42, CI 0.21-0.84, p = 0.01). INTERPRETATION Non-Hispanic Black children were more often treated with non-standard IS therapies than Non-Hispanic white children. Likewise, children with public (vs. private) insurance were less likely to receive standard therapies. Investigating drivers of inequities, and understanding the impact of racism on treatment decisions, are critical next steps to improve care for patients with IS. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona M Baumer
- Department of Neurology, Division of Child Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA
| | - John R Mytinger
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Kerri Neville
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of Michigan (Michigan Medicine), Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Christina Briscoe Abath
- Department of Child Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Camilo A Gutierrez
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD
| | - Adam L Numis
- Department of Neurology, Division of Epilepsy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Chellamani Harini
- Department of Child Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Zihuai He
- Department of Neurology, Division of Child Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Shaun A Hussain
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Anne T Berg
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Catherine J Chu
- Department of Neurology, Divisions of Child Neurology and Neurophysiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | - Tobias Loddenkemper
- Department of Child Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | - Debopam Samanata
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, AR
| | - Rani K Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, Atrium Health-Levine Children's, Charlotte, NC
| | - Nilika S Singhal
- Department of Neurology, Division of Epilepsy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Courtney J Wusthoff
- Department of Neurology, Division of Child Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Elaine C Wirrell
- Department of Neurology, Divisions of Epilepsy and Child and Adolescent Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Elissa Yozawitz
- Isabelle Rapin Division of Child Neurology of the Saul R Korey Department of Neurology and Department of Pediatrics, Montefiore Medical Center, NY
| | - Kelly G Knupp
- Department of Pediatrics, New York-Presbyterian Komansky Children's Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Renée A Shellhaas
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of Michigan (Michigan Medicine), Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Zachary M Grinspan
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO.,Department of Healthcare Policy & Research, New York-Presbyterian Komansky Children's Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
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14
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Samanta D, Elumalai V, Hoyt ML, Modi AC, Sajatovic M. A qualitative study of epilepsy self-management barriers and facilitators in Black children and caregivers in Arkansas. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 126:108491. [PMID: 34929473 PMCID: PMC8764703 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify facilitators and barriers of epilepsy self-management practices among Black children and caregivers. METHODS Qualitative semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 11 child-caregiver dyads (11 children with epilepsy and 11 caregivers). A deductive-inductive analysis was undertaken to describe the range of barriers and facilitators significant to participants. RESULTS The barriers and facilitators were classified into 3 management themes: epilepsy-specific knowledge and information, treatment, and lifestyle. Within these themes, several important subthemes were identified. Two subthemes related to knowledge barriers emerged: children and caregivers' limited understanding and retention of complex written and spoken information and variable training and confidence in seizure first-aid. In contrast, facilitators for introducing and encouraging access to epilepsy self-management concepts were participants' eagerness to learn about this topic and a keen interest in using educational materials enriched with visual aids on a phone platform as an adjunct to in-person education. The second theme revealed various practical barriers to optimum treatment adherence, including mistrust of the healthcare system. In comparison, caregivers' collaborative approach and innovative strategies were identified as facilitators for treatment adherence. Finally, the lifestyle management barriers included a lack of defined processes to adopt healthy behaviors and challenges with disclosing epilepsy. Facilitators of this theme were comprised of building a team around the child to foster wellbeing and making healthy habits a fun and joyful experience for children. DISCUSSION Qualitative evidence in this study highlights caregivers' mistrust in the healthcare system and the lack of community support. Culturally competent interventions may improve access to and quality and utilization of self-management programs in Black children and families while reducing disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debopam Samanta
- Neurology Division, Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
| | - Vimala Elumalai
- Division of Neurology, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, United States of America
| | - Megan Leigh Hoyt
- Division of Neurology, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, United States of America
| | - Avani C. Modi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Martha Sajatovic
- Neurological and Behavioral Outcomes Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio,Department of Psychiatry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio
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15
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Spruill TM, Friedman D, Diaz L, Butler MJ, Goldfeld KS, O'Kula S, Montesdeoca J, Payano L, Shallcross AJ, Kaur K, Tau M, Vazquez B, Jongeling A, Ogedegbe G, Devinsky O. Telephone-based depression self-management in Hispanic adults with epilepsy: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Transl Behav Med 2021; 11:1451-1460. [PMID: 33963873 PMCID: PMC8320882 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibab045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Depression is associated with adverse outcomes in epilepsy but is undertreated in this population. Project UPLIFT, a telephone-based depression self-management program, was developed for adults with epilepsy and has been shown to reduce depressive symptoms in English-speaking patients. There remains an unmet need for accessible mental health programs for Hispanic adults with epilepsy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and effects on depressive symptoms of a culturally adapted version of UPLIFT for the Hispanic community. Hispanic patients with elevated depressive symptoms (n = 72) were enrolled from epilepsy clinics in New York City and randomized to UPLIFT or usual care. UPLIFT was delivered in English or Spanish to small groups in eight weekly telephone sessions. Feasibility was assessed by recruitment, retention, and adherence rates and acceptability was assessed by self-reported satisfaction with the intervention. Depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 scores) were compared between study arms over 12 months. The mean age was 43.3±11.3, 71% of participants were female and 67% were primary Spanish speakers. Recruitment (76% consent rate) and retention rates (86–93%) were high. UPLIFT participants completed a median of six out of eight sessions and satisfaction ratings were high, but rates of long-term practice were low. Rates of clinically significant depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥5) were lower in UPLIFT versus usual care throughout follow-up (63% vs. 72%, 8 weeks; 40% vs. 70%, 6 months; 47% vs. 70%, 12 months). Multivariable-adjusted regressions demonstrated statistically significant differences at 6 months (OR = 0.24, 95% CI, 0.06–0.93), which were slightly reduced at 12 months (OR = 0.30, 95% CI, 0.08–1.16). Results suggest that UPLIFT is feasible and acceptable among Hispanic adults with epilepsy and demonstrate promising effects on depressive symptoms. Larger trials in geographically diverse samples are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya M Spruill
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniel Friedman
- Department of Neurology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laura Diaz
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mark J Butler
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.,Center for Personalized Health, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Keith S Goldfeld
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Susanna O'Kula
- Department of Neurology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Leydi Payano
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Amanda J Shallcross
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kiranjot Kaur
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael Tau
- Department of Neurology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Blanca Vazquez
- Department of Neurology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Amy Jongeling
- Department of Neurology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gbenga Ogedegbe
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.,Institute for Excellence in Health Equity, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Orrin Devinsky
- Department of Neurology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
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16
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Social determinants do not affect access to specialized epilepsy care in veterans. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 121:108071. [PMID: 34052631 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION It is well established that sociodemographic and neighborhood determinants impact access to healthcare. Veterans with epilepsy (VWE) face unique challenges that may limit access to specialized epilepsy care, though institutional initiatives have aimed to minimize disparities. We assessed the extent to which surrogate markers of access to quality care in VWE were impacted by sociodemographic and neighborhood determinants. METHODS The sample included 180 VWE. Surrogate markers included time between initial diagnosis and admission to epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) (time to referral, TTR), and the number of CT, MRI, and EEGs conducted prior to initial EMU evaluation. Sociodemographic and neighborhood determinants included age, sex, race, education, neighborhood advantage, rural status, distance from home to the nearest VAMC, and number of service connection (SC) conditions. Significant correlations across variables of interest were entered into a linear regression. Group differences between social factors were assessed for early and late TTR groups (based on 1st and 4th quartiles). RESULTS The mean TTR was 12 years (SD ± 13.18). Longer TTR was correlated to older age (p < 0.001) and fewer SC conditions (p = 0.03). None of the other factors were significantly correlated to TTR. Older age significantly predicted longer TTR on regression. The earlier TTR group was younger, had more SC conditions, lived closer to a VAMC, and was more likely to be female. Greater geographic distance was correlated with fewer CT scans (p = 0.01). A greater number of MRIs was correlated with older age (p = 0.04). Younger age (p < 0.01) and greater education (p = 0.01) were correlated with more SC. CONCLUSION Access to epilepsy care among VWE was largely unimpacted by social determinants, with the exception of older age leading to longer TTR. The TTR in VWE was considerably shorter than has been reported in the literature for civilian patients. The Veterans Health Administration model of care may harbor certain advantages in epilepsy treatment.
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17
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Andersson K, Ozanne A, Bolin K, Tomson T, Zelano J. Valproic acid and socioeconomic associations in Swedish women with epilepsy 2010-2015. Acta Neurol Scand 2021; 143:383-388. [PMID: 33523460 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated the correlation between socioeconomic status and the prescription of Valproic acid (VPA) in women of fertile age in Sweden. METHODS This is a registered-based cohort study including all women living in Sweden aged 18-45 years in the years 2010-2015, with a diagnosis of epilepsy and no intellectual disability (n = 9143). Data were collected from the National Patient Register, the Drug Prescription Register, and the Longitudinal integration database for health insurance and labor market studies (LISA). RESULTS Women with only 9 years of school were more often prescribed VPA than women with a University degree (12.9% compared to 10.7% in 2015 [p = 0.015]). Similar differences were seen between the lowest and highest income group (16.6% compared to 12.7% in 2015 [p < 0.001]). The odds of having a VPA prescription in 2015 was 1.59 (p < 0.001) in women with 9 years of school compared to women with a University degree, and 1.60 (p < 0.001) in the lowest income group relative to the highest income group after adjusting for age. From 2010 to 2015, the proportion with VPA prescription in the whole cohort diminished with an absolute reduction of -2.2% (p < 0.001). The decrease was similar among the different education and income groups (p = 0.919 and p = 0.280). SIGNIFICANCE The results indicate that the increased knowledge on VPA teratogenicity was implemented across socioeconomic strata in the Swedish healthcare system. Women with lower income or education level remained more frequent VPA users. Whether this difference reflects epilepsy type or severity, or socioeconomic disparities, merit further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Andersson
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology Sahlgrenska AcademyGothenburg University Gothenburg Sweden
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences Sahlgrenska AcademyGothenburg University Gothenburg Sweden
- Sahlgrenska University Hospital Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Anneli Ozanne
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences Sahlgrenska AcademyGothenburg University Gothenburg Sweden
- Sahlgrenska University Hospital Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Kristian Bolin
- Department of Economics Gothenburg University Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Tomson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
| | - Johan Zelano
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology Sahlgrenska AcademyGothenburg University Gothenburg Sweden
- Sahlgrenska University Hospital Gothenburg Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine Sahlgrenska AcademyGothenburg University Gothenburg Sweden
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Uepping P, Hamer H, Scholten J, Kostev K. Physical and mental health comorbidities of patients with epilepsy in Germany - A retrospective cohort study. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 117:107857. [PMID: 33636528 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.107857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of physical and psychological comorbidities in patients with epilepsy in Germany in order to better understand the complex clinical picture and its consequences. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included adult individuals with a diagnosis of epilepsy between January 2018 and December 2018 (index date). Patients with epilepsy were matched 1:1 with patients without epilepsy by age, sex, and physician. The study outcomes included the associations between epilepsy and different physical and mental disorders documented within 365 days after the index date as well as multimorbidity defined as at least two, three, four, and five different diagnoses. The present study used multivariate logistic regression models with all study disorders as dependent variables and epilepsy as an impact variable. RESULTS After 1:1 matching, the present study included 7942 patients with and 7942 patients without epilepsy (mean age: 58.0 years; 49.7% female). Epilepsy was significantly positively associated with nine disorders, and the strongest associations were with mental retardation (Odds Ratio (OR): 21.11 (95% Confidence Intervals (CI): 12.52-35.59)), cerebrovascular diseases (OR: 3.14 (95% CI: 2.80-3.55)), and dementia (OR: 1.72 (95% CI: 1.47-2.01)). Epilepsy was associated with significantly increased odds of multimorbidity. CONCLUSION In summary, individuals with epilepsy have an increased prevalence of comorbidities that increase with age. Further research should be undertaken in this area, including the etiology of comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hajo Hamer
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Karel Kostev
- University Hospital of Marburg, Marburg, Germany; Epidemiologie, IQVIA, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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Kobau R, Boring M, Zack MM, Croft JB. In 2016, Medicaid and Medicare paid about 65% of all inpatient hospitalization costs for all-age persons hospitalized with epilepsy as the principal diagnosis. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107601. [PMID: 33298379 PMCID: PMC8514127 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine both the distribution of payers for inpatient hospitalizations (all-ages) by principal diagnosis status (epilepsy versus nonepilepsy) and selected organizational- and community-level factors associated with hospitalizations using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's (AHRQ) Healthcare Utilization Project 2016 National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. We compared cases with epilepsy (any ICD-10CM diagnostic code beginning with "G40") as a principal diagnosis ("epilepsy discharges") versus cases without epilepsy as the principal diagnosis ("nonepilepsy discharges"). Accounting for the complex survey design, we examined how the principal payer source, median income for Zip Code, admission type, hospital location, teaching status, and hospital region varied by principal diagnosis status. For persons of all ages with epilepsy as a principal diagnosis, Medicaid and Medicare public insurance paid for about 65% of inpatient hospitalization costs. The percentage paid by Medicaid among epilepsy discharges (31.6%) significantly exceeded that among nonepilepsy discharges (23.1%). The percentage paid by Medicare among epilepsy discharges (33.9%) was significantly less than that among nonepilepsy discharges (39.7%), as was payment by private insurers (26.1% vs. 30.1%). Median Zip Code income, hospital and admission characteristics, and geographic region differed between hospitalizations with epilepsy versus those with a nonepilepsy discharge. These findings may be used to inform stakeholders' understanding of epilepsy care-related costs and factors associated with hospitalizations for improved interventions and programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemarie Kobau
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, 4770 Buford Highway NE, MS 107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
| | - Michael Boring
- Starr and Associates, Epilepsy Program, Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Mail Stop 107-6, 4770 Buford Hwy, 30341 GA, USA
| | - Matthew M. Zack
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, 4770 Buford Highway NE, MS 107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Janet B. Croft
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, 4770 Buford Highway NE, MS 107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
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Bonkowsky JL, deVeber G, Kosofsky BE. Pediatric Neurology Research in the Twenty-First Century: Status, Challenges, and Future Directions Post-COVID-19. Pediatr Neurol 2020; 113:2-12. [PMID: 32979654 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2020.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The year 2020 marked a fundamental shift in the pediatric neurology field. An impressive positive trajectory of advances in patient care and research faced sudden global disruptions by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and by an international movement protesting racial, socioeconomic, and health disparities. The disruptions revealed obstacles and fragility within the pediatric neurology research mission. However, renewed commitment offers unique opportunities for the pediatric neurology research community to enhance and prioritize research directions for the coming decades. METHODS The Research Committee of the Child Neurology Society evaluated the challenges and opportunities facing the pediatric neurology research field, including reviewing published literature, synthesizing publically available data, and conducting a survey of pediatric neurologists. RESULTS We identified three priority domains for the research mission: funding levels, active guidance, and reducing disparities. Funding levels: to increase funding to match the burden of pediatric neurological disease; to tailor funding mechanisms and strategies to support clinical trial efforts unique to pediatric neurology; and to support investigators across their career trajectory. Active guidance: to optimize infrastructure and strategies, to leverage novel therapeutics, enhance data collection, and improve inclusion of children in clinical trials. Reducing disparities: to reduce health disparities in children with neurological disease, to develop proactive measures to enhance workforce diversity and inclusion, and increase avenues to balance work-life obligations for investigators. CONCLUSIONS In this uniquely challenging epoch, the pediatric neurology research community has a timely and important mission to re-engage the public and government, advancing the health of children with neurological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua L Bonkowsky
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah; Primary Children's Hospital, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, Utah.
| | - Gabrielle deVeber
- Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Barry E Kosofsky
- Department of Pediatrics, New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
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Wallar LE, Rosella LC. Individual and neighbourhood socioeconomic status increase risk of avoidable hospitalizations among Canadian adults: A retrospective cohort study of linked population health data. Int J Popul Data Sci 2020; 5:1351. [PMID: 32935060 PMCID: PMC7477780 DOI: 10.23889/ijpds.v5i1.1351] [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] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Avoidable hospitalizations refer to acute care use for conditions that should normally be managed in primary care settings. Lower socioeconomic status that is often measured using area-based indicators (e.g. median household income) has been shown to increase risk of avoidable hospitalizations. However, both area- and individual-level socioeconomic status can contribute to hospitalization risk, but previous data limitations have prevented separate analyses. Further, the joint effect of individual and neighbourhood socioeconomic status has not been established in the Canadian population. To address this, this study links individual-level household income and neighbourhood-level material deprivation data within a population-based Canadian cohort. OBJECTIVES To determine the individual and joint effect of individual-level household income and neighbourhood-level material deprivation on risk of hospitalization for a set of chronic ambulatory care sensitive conditions using linked health survey, hospital discharge, and census-derived data. METHODS A pooled cohort was created by linking sociodemographic and health information from eight cycles of the Canadian Community Health Survey (2000/2001 - 2010) to hospital discharge records and Canadian Marginalization Indices (2001, 2006) (N = 354,595). The primary outcome variable was risk of index hospitalization with a primary diagnosis of angina, asthma, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, epilepsy, or hypertension. The primary exposure variable was joint individual-level national household income quintile and neighbourhood-level material deprivation quintile. Relative risk (RR) was estimated by constructing modified Poisson regression models with robust error variance. RESULTS In fully adjusted models with income and deprivation considered separately, individuals in the lowest household income quintile and highest material deprivation quintile were at increased risk of hospitalization (Income RR: 1.82 (95% CI 1.56-2.13) Deprivation RR: 1.67 (1.44-1.95)). When income and deprivation were jointly considered, those with low individual income living in high deprivation neighbourhoods were at greatest risk of hospitalization (RR 1.83 (95% CI 1.63 - 2.05)). CONCLUSION Both individual income and neighbourhood deprivation separately and jointly increase risk of avoidable hospitalizations. Additional research is needed to understand their mechanisms of action. However, both levels should be considered when designing effective policies and interventions to reduce avoidable hospitalizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- LE Wallar
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, 155 College St Room 500, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7
| | - LC Rosella
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, 155 College St Room 500, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7
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Tian N, Croft JB, Kobau R, Zack MM, Greenlund KJ. CDC-supported epilepsy surveillance and epidemiologic studies: A review of progress since 1994. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 109:107123. [PMID: 32451250 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
To report progress, to identify gaps, and to plan epilepsy surveillance and research activities more effectively, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Epilepsy Program has summarized findings from selected CDC-supported surveillance and epidemiologic studies about epilepsy from 1994 through 2019. We identified publications supported by CDC funding and publications conducted by the CDC Epilepsy Program alone or with partners. We included only epilepsy surveillance and epidemiologic studies focusing on epilepsy burden, epilepsy-related outcomes, and healthcare utilization. We describe the findings of these studies in the following order: 1)prevalence; 2)incidence; 3)epilepsy-related outcomes by selected demographic characteristics; 4)cysticercosis or neurocysticercosis (NCC); 5)traumatic brain injury (TBI); 6)comorbidity; 7)mortality; 8)access to care; 9)quality of care; and 10) cost. We have characterized these findings in relation to the scope of the first three domains of the 2012 Institute of Medicine report on epilepsy and its relevant first four recommendations. From 1994 through 2019, 76 publications on epilepsy-related epidemiologic and surveillance studies were identified. Over the past 25 years, CDC has expanded community, state, and national surveillance on epilepsy and supported epidemiologic studies by using multiple assessment methods and validated case-ascertainment criteria to identify epilepsy burden, epilepsy-related outcomes, and healthcare utilization in the general population or in population subgroups. Among identified research opportunities, studies on epilepsy incidence and risk factors, mortality, and cost are considered as important surveillance gaps. Other remaining gaps and suggested surveillance strategies are also proposed. Findings from this review may help epilepsy researchers and other stakeholders reference and prioritize future activities for epidemiologic and surveillance studies in epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niu Tian
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, Epilepsy Program, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Mailstop S107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
| | - Janet B Croft
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, Epilepsy Program, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Mailstop S107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Rosemarie Kobau
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, Epilepsy Program, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Mailstop S107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Matthew M Zack
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, Epilepsy Program, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Mailstop S107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Kurt J Greenlund
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health, Epilepsy Program, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Mailstop S107-6, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
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Epilepsy self-management behaviors among African Americans with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 109:107098. [PMID: 32376207 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although self-management practices are heavily studied in the general population of adults with epilepsy, African American people with epilepsy (PWE) have been understudied. Improving understanding about epilepsy self-management among African Americans is warrantedbecause of the significantly greater mortality rates among this population compared withPWE from other racial/ethnic groups. The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of the Adult Epilepsy Self-Management Measurement Instrument (AESMMI) for Black/African American adults and describe their self-management behaviors. METHODS This study was a cross-sectional survey of self-identified Black/African American adults who reported that a health provider diagnosed them as having epilepsy or a seizure disorder. Participants completed a cross-sectional survey between spring 2017 and fall 2018. The survey measured self-management behaviors (65-itemAESMMI), quality of life, depression, seizure severity, epilepsy history, and demographics. We ran descriptive analyses, computed scales, and ran reliability statistics for the AESMMI. Correlations were run between total AESMMI score and depression symptoms and quality of life to assess construct validity. RESULTS Generally, participants (N = 114) were male (58.6%), from urban/suburban settings (90.5%), at least high school graduates (86.4%), and of lowerincome (90.3%). Their ages ranged from 19 to 64 years with a mean age of 53 years (standard deviation [SD] = 10.9). Participants had general (72.8%) and focal seizures (55.3%) primarily. Many were diagnosed at a young age (M = 10.9), were on antiepileptic medications (91.2%), and had seen a primary care doctor (68.4%) or general neurologist for treatment (54.4%). Sixty percent had visited a neurologist in the past year. African American participants had a low score on quality of life (Quality of Life in Epilepsy [QOLIE], M = 1.86) and low depression symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ-8], M = 3.13). Participants reported conducting self-management behaviors in the following domains more frequently: proactivity (M = 4.11), medication adherence (M = 3.92), healthcare communications (M = 3.91), and social support (M = 3.90). In contrast, they performed self-management behaviors related to treatment (M = 3.34), stress management (M = 3.56), and safety (M = 3.58) less frequently. The overall reliability of the AESMMI was 0.88. Adult Epilepsy Self-Management Measurement Instrument score was correlated with quality of life (r = 0.151). CONCLUSION Findings are clinically relevant as knowing patients'self-management behaviors enables healthcare clinicians to support and encourage adults to improve the management of their epilepsy. Services or interventions related to coping with stress, safety, and adherence with treatment and medication may be warranted for African Americans with epilepsy.
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Wallar LE, De Prophetis E, Rosella LC. Socioeconomic inequalities in hospitalizations for chronic ambulatory care sensitive conditions: a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature, 1990-2018. Int J Equity Health 2020; 19:60. [PMID: 32366253 PMCID: PMC7197160 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-020-01160-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospitalizations for chronic ambulatory care sensitive conditions are an important indicator of health system equity and performance. Chronic ambulatory care sensitive conditions refer to chronic diseases that can be managed in primary care settings, including angina, asthma, and diabetes, with hospitalizations for these conditions considered potentially avoidable with adequate primary care interventions. Socioeconomic inequities in the risk of hospitalization have been observed in several health systems globally. While there are multiple studies examining the association between socioeconomic status and hospitalizations for chronic ambulatory care sensitive conditions, these studies have not been systematically reviewed. The objective of this study is to systematically identify and describe socioeconomic inequalities in hospitalizations for chronic ambulatory care sensitive conditions amongst adult populations in economically developed countries reported in high-quality observational studies published in the peer-reviewed literature. METHODS Peer-reviewed literature was searched in six health and social science databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycInfo, CINAHL, ASSIA, and IBSS using search terms for hospitalization, socioeconomic status, and chronic ambulatory care sensitive conditions. Study titles and abstracts were first screened followed by full-text review according to the following eligibility criteria: 1) Study outcome is hospitalization for selected chronic ambulatory care sensitive conditions; 2) Primary exposure is individual- or area-level socioeconomic status; 3) Study population has a mean age ± 1 SD < 75 years of age; 4) Study setting is economically developed countries; and 5) Study type is observational. Relevant data was then extracted, and studies were critically appraised using appropriate tools from The Joanna Briggs Institute. Results were narratively synthesized according to socioeconomic constructs and type of adjustment (minimally versus fully adjusted). RESULTS Of the 15,857 unique peer-reviewed studies identified, 31 studies met the eligibility criteria and were of sufficient quality for inclusion. Socioeconomic constructs and hospitalization outcomes varied across studies. However, despite this heterogeneity, a robust and consistent association between lower levels of socioeconomic status and higher risk of hospitalizations for chronic ambulatory care sensitive conditions was observed. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review is the first to comprehensively identify and analyze literature on the relationship between SES and hospitalizations for chronic ambulatory care sensitive conditions, considering both aggregate and condition-specific outcomes that are common to several international health systems. The evidence consistently demonstrates that lower socioeconomic status is a risk factor for hospitalization across global settings. Effective health and social interventions are needed to reduce these inequities and ensure fair and adequate care across socioeconomic groups. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42018088727.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Wallar
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Eric De Prophetis
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Laura C Rosella
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada.
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Cihan E, Hesdorffer DC, Brandsoy M, Li L, Fowler DR, Graham JK, Karlovich M, Donner EJ, Devinsky O, Friedman D. Socioeconomic disparities in SUDEP in the US. Neurology 2020; 94:e2555-e2566. [PMID: 32327496 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000009463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the impact of socioeconomic status (SES) on sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) rates. METHODS We queried all decedents presented for medico-legal investigation at 3 medical examiner (ME) offices across the country (New York City, Maryland, San Diego County) in 2009 to 2010 and 2014 to 2015. We identified all decedents for whom epilepsy/seizure was listed as cause/contributor to death or comorbid condition on the death certificate. We then reviewed all available reports. Decedents determined to have SUDEP were included for analysis. We used median income in the ZIP code of residence as a surrogate for SES. For each region, zip code regions were ranked by median household income and divided into quartiles based on total population for 2 time periods. Region-, age-, and income-adjusted epilepsy prevalence was estimated in each zip code. SUDEP rates in the highest and lowest SES quartiles were evaluated to determine disparity. Examined SUDEP rates in 2 time periods were also compared. RESULTS There were 159 and 43 SUDEP cases in the lowest and highest SES quartiles. ME-investigated SUDEP rate ratio between the lowest and highest SES quartiles was 2.6 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.7-4.1, p < 0.0001) in 2009 to 2010 and 3.3 (95% CI 1.9-6.0, p < 0.0001) in 2014 to 2015. There was a significant decline in overall SUDEP rate between the 2 study periods (36% decrease, 95% CI 22%-48%, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION ME-investigated SUDEP incidence was significantly higher in people with the lowest SES compared to the highest SES. The difference persisted over a 5-year period despite decreased overall SUDEP rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esma Cihan
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dale C Hesdorffer
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Brandsoy
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ling Li
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David R Fowler
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason K Graham
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Karlovich
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth J Donner
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Orrin Devinsky
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Friedman
- From the Department of Neurology (E.C., M.K., O.D., D.F.), NYU School of Medicine; Department of Epidemiology (D.C.H.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office (M.B.), CA; Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (L.L., D.R.F.), Baltimore; New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (J.K.G.), NY; and Department of Paediatrics (E.J.D.), Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Socioeconomic outcome and access to care in adults with epilepsy in Sweden: A nationwide cohort study. Seizure 2020; 74:71-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2019.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
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Scrivner B, Szaflarski M, Baker EH, Szaflarski JP. Health literacy and quality of life in patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 99:106480. [PMID: 31465909 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.106480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
This exploratory study examined the impact of health literacy on quality of life (QoL) in patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy (TRE). Health literacy is a discrete form of literacy in which an individual can readily interpret prose and apply that skill to understand medical, pharmaceutical, and self-management information. From the perspectives of cultural health capital (CHC) and social disability theory, we hypothesized that greater levels of health literacy would be associated with a higher QoL score. The sample (n = 79) included adult patients with TRE enrolled in the University of Alabama at Birmingham Cannabidiol Program. The data were analyzed by using nested linear regression. Respondents aged 19-63 years (mean, standard deviation [SD] = 32.9 [13.65]) and were 92% white; 44% of patients were in Special Education until age 21 years, and 29% reported a total annual family income of less than $25,000. Significant bivariate relationships were found between health literacy and QoL (p = .004), age (p = .0001), and income (p = .036). There was a significant difference in health literacy scores for patients who completed high school or less (mean [SD] = 0.68 [0.86]) and those with any postsecondary education (mean [SD] = 1.59 [1.0]). The regression results showed health literacy to be positively associated with QoL where a 1% increase in health literacy was associated with a 6.61-point increase in QoL (p = .004), and this pattern persisted through each addition of other independent factors and control variables. This is one of the first studies investigating the role of health literacy in QoL among patients with TRE. The results suggest that health literacy is important and may function as a tool through which healthcare participation is expanded. Further research is needed with larger, more diverse, and longitudinal samples to accurately model the development of health literacy and its impact on QoL in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brie Scrivner
- Department of Sociology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, HHB 460H, 1720 2nd Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35294-1152, USA.
| | - Magdalena Szaflarski
- Department of Sociology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, HHB 460H, 1720 2nd Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35294-1152, USA.
| | - Elizabeth H Baker
- Department of Sociology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, HHB 460H, 1720 2nd Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35294-1152, USA.
| | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- UAB Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 312 Civitan International Research Center (CIRC 312), 1720 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294-0021, USA.
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Quarells RC, Spruill TM, Escoffery C, Shallcross A, Montesdeoca J, Diaz L, Payano L, Thompson NJ. Depression self-management in people with epilepsy: Adapting project UPLIFT for underserved populations. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 99:106422. [PMID: 31371202 PMCID: PMC7432961 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Data from the 2015 National Health Interview Survey found that the prevalence of active epilepsy has increased to three million adults. Although findings have been mixed, some research indicates that Blacks and Hispanics share a higher burden of epilepsy prevalence compared with non-Hispanic whites. Moreover, depression is a common comorbid condition among people with epilepsy (PWE), affecting up to 55% of the epilepsy population. Widespread use and increased public health impact of evidence-based self-management interventions is critical to reducing disease burden and may require adapting original interventions into more culturally relevant versions for racial and ethnic minority groups. Project UPLIFT provides access to mental health self-management skills training that is distance-delivered, does not interfere with medication management, and has been shown to be effective in reducing depressive symptoms. This paper presents the process of exploring the adaptation of Project UPLIFT for Black and Hispanic PWE and herein suggests that evidence-based interventions can be successfully adapted for new populations or cultural settings through a careful and systematic process. Additional key lessons learned include the importance of community engagement and that language matters. Ultimately, if the adapted Project UPLIFT intervention produces positive outcomes for diverse populations of PWE, it will extend the strategies available to reduce the burden of depression. Implementing evidence-based interventions such as Project UPLIFT is critical to reducing disease burden; however, their delivery may need to be tailored to the needs and culture of the populations of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakale C Quarells
- Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, SW, Atlanta, GA 30310, United States.
| | - Tanya M Spruill
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Cam Escoffery
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Amanda Shallcross
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Jacqueline Montesdeoca
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Laura Diaz
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Leydi Payano
- NYU School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Nancy J Thompson
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
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Magnusson C, Zelano J. High-resolution mapping of epilepsy prevalence, ambulance use, and socioeconomic deprivation in an urban area of Sweden. Epilepsia 2019; 60:2060-2067. [PMID: 31529472 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Geographic differences in epilepsy prevalence between areas of different socioeconomic standing have been demonstrated in the United Kingdom, but knowledge from other health care systems is scarce. Our objective was to compare epilepsy prevalence and emergency medical service (EMS) assignments for seizures in areas of different socioeconomic standings in the urban area of Gothenburg. METHODS Register-based study in Gothenburg (population 690 000), the second largest city in Sweden. Epilepsy cases were identified in the comprehensive national patient register in 2014-2015. EMS assignments were identified in the EMS dispatch system in 2013-2018. Socioeconomic variables were mean income and proportion of welfare recipients. RESULTS Significant correlations were seen between epilepsy prevalence and the proportion of welfare recipients (r = .49, P = .0014) and annual income per capita (r = -.42, P = .0071). There were 7907 assignments for seizures during the study years. GPS-based analysis showed that most assignments occurred in the city center. In addition, several high-density areas correlated with areas with a high proportion of inhabitants receiving welfare. Correlation analysis showed significant associations between the number of EMS assignments per capita and the proportion of welfare recipients (r = .31, P < .0001) and income (r = -.19, P < .0001). When comparing representative areas, a greater proportion of assignments was given the highest priority in high status areas compared to low status areas, both by the dispatch center and EMS clinicians on scene. SIGNIFICANCE Our findings that epilepsy prevalence and seizure frequency differ with socioeconomic status on a microgeographic level considerably strengthen the generalizability of previous observations across different health care systems. Differences in priority may reflect health utilization behavior or access to neurologic care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl Magnusson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institution of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johan Zelano
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Ridsdale L, McKinlay A, Wojewodka G, Robinson EJ, Mosweu I, Feehan SJ, Noble AJ, Morgan M, Taylor SJ, McCrone P, Landau S, Richardson M, Baker G, Goldstein LH. Self-Management education for adults with poorly controlled epILEpsy [SMILE (UK)]: a randomised controlled trial. Health Technol Assess 2019; 22:1-142. [PMID: 29717699 DOI: 10.3310/hta22210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is a common neurological condition resulting in recurrent seizures. Research evidence in long-term conditions suggests that patients benefit from self-management education and that this may improve quality of life (QoL). Epilepsy self-management education has yet to be tested in a UK setting. OBJECTIVES To determine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Self-Management education for people with poorly controlled epILEpsy [SMILE (UK)]. DESIGN A parallel pragmatic randomised controlled trial. SETTING Participants were recruited from eight hospitals in London and south-east England. PARTICIPANTS Adults aged ≥ 16 years with epilepsy and two or more epileptic seizures in the past year, who were currently being prescribed antiepileptic drugs. INTERVENTION A 2-day group self-management course alongside treatment as usual (TAU). The control group received TAU. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome is QoL in people with epilepsy at 12-month follow-up using the Quality Of Life In Epilepsy 31-P (QOLIE-31-P) scale. Other outcomes were seizure control, impact of epilepsy, medication adverse effects, psychological distress, perceived stigma, self-mastery and medication adherence. Cost-effectiveness analyses and a process evaluation were undertaken. RANDOMISATION A 1 : 1 ratio between trial arms using fixed block sizes of two. BLINDING Participants were not blinded to their group allocation because of the nature of the study. Researchers involved in data collection and analysis remained blinded throughout. RESULTS The trial completed successfully. A total of 404 participants were enrolled in the study [SMILE (UK), n = 205; TAU, n = 199] with 331 completing the final follow-up at 12 months [SMILE (UK), n = 163; TAU, n = 168]. In the intervention group, 61.5% completed all sessions of the course. No adverse events were found to be related to the intervention. At baseline, participants had a mean age of 41.7 years [standard deviation (SD) 14.1 years], and had epilepsy for a median of 18 years. The mean QOLIE-31-P score for the whole group at baseline was 66.0 out of 100.0 (SD 14.2). Clinically relevant levels of anxiety symptoms were reported in 53.6% of the group and depression symptoms in 28.0%. The results following an intention-to-treat analysis showed no change in any measures at the 12-month follow-up [QOLIE-31-P: SMILE (UK) mean: 67.4, SD 13.5; TAU mean: 69.5, SD 14.8]. The cost-effectiveness study showed that SMILE (UK) was possibly cost-effective but was also associated with lower QoL. The process evaluation with 20 participants revealed that a group course increased confidence by sharing with others and improved self-management behaviours. CONCLUSIONS For people with epilepsy and persistent seizures, a 2-day self-management education course is cost-saving, but does not improve QoL after 12-months or reduce anxiety or depression symptoms. A psychological intervention may help with anxiety and depression. Interviewed participants reported attending a group course increased their confidence and helped them improve their self-management. FUTURE WORK More research is needed on self-management courses, with psychological components and integration with routine monitoring. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN57937389. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 22, No. 21. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leone Ridsdale
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neurosciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alison McKinlay
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neurosciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Gabriella Wojewodka
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neurosciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Emily J Robinson
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Iris Mosweu
- King's Health Economics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah J Feehan
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neurosciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Adam J Noble
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Institute of Psychology, Health and Society, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Myfanwy Morgan
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Stephanie Jc Taylor
- Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health, London, UK
| | - Paul McCrone
- King's Health Economics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sabine Landau
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mark Richardson
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neurosciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Gus Baker
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Laura H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Effect of health disparities on overall survival of patients with glioblastoma. J Neurooncol 2019; 142:365-374. [PMID: 30671709 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-019-03108-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Examine the potential effects of health disparities in survival of glioblastoma (GB) patients. METHODS We conducted a retrospective chart review of newly diagnosed GB patients from 2000 to 2015 at a free standing dedicated cancer center (MD Anderson Cancer Center-MDACC) and a safety net county hospital (Ben Taub General Hospital-BT) located in Houston, Texas. We obtained demographics, insurance status, extent of resection, treatments, and other known prognostic variables (Karnofsky Score-KPS) to evaluate their role on overall GB survival (OS). RESULTS We identified 1073 GB patients consisting of 177 from BT and 896 from MDACC. We found significant differences by ethnicity, insurance status, KPS at diagnosis, extent of resection, and percentage of patients receiving standard of care (SOC) between the two centers. OS was 1.64 years for MDACC patients and 1.24 years for BT patients (p < 0.0176). Only 81 (45.8%) BT patients received SOC compared to 577 (64%) of MDACC patients (p < 0.0001). However, there was no significant difference in OS for patients who received SOC, 1.84 years for MDACC patients and 1.99 years for BT patients (p < 0.4787). Of the 96 BT patients who did not receive SOC, 29 (30%) had KPS less than 70 at time of diagnosis and 77 (80%) lacked insurance. CONCLUSIONS GB patients treated at a safety net county hospital had similar OS compared to a free standing comprehensive cancer center when receiving SOC. County hospital patients had poorer KPS at diagnosis and were often lacking health insurance affecting their ability to receive SOC.
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Marulanda-Londoño ET, Bell MW, Hope OA, Leacock RO, O'Carroll CB, Posas J, Stover NP, Young R, Hamilton R. Reducing neurodisparity: Recommendations of the 2017 AAN Diversity Leadership Program. Neurology 2019; 92:274-280. [PMID: 30659140 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000006874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Many advances in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of neurologic disease have emerged in the last few decades, resulting in reduced mortality and decreased disability. However, these advances have not benefitted all populations equally. A growing body of evidence indicates that barriers to care fall along racial and ethnic lines, with persons from minority groups frequently having lower rates of evaluation, diagnosis, and intervention, and consequently experiencing worse neurologic outcomes than their white counterparts. The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) challenged its 2017 Diversity Leadership Program cohort to determine what the AAN can do to improve quality of care for racially and ethnically diverse patients with neurologic disorders. Developing a fuller understanding of the effect of disparities in neurologic care (neurodisparity) on patients is an important prerequisite for creating meaningful change. Clear insight into how bias and trust affect the doctor-patient relationship is also crucial to grasp the complexity of this issue. We propose that the AAN take a vital step toward achieving equity in neurologic care by enhancing health literacy, patient education, and shared decision-making with a focus on internet and social media. Moreover, by further strengthening its focus on health disparities research and training, the AAN can continue to inform the field and aid in the development of current and future leaders who will address neurodisparity. Ultimately, the goal of tackling neurodisparity is perfectly aligned with the mission of the AAN: to promote the highest-quality patient-centered neurologic care and enhance member career satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika T Marulanda-Londoño
- From the Department of Neurology (E.T.M.-L.), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL; Department of Neurology (M.W.B.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (O.A.H.), University of Texas, Houston; Palmetto Health (R.O.L.), University of South Carolina, Columbia; Department of Neurology (C.B.O.), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ; Department of Neurology (J.P.), Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA; Department of Neurology (N.P.S.), University of Alabama at Birmingham; Department of Neurology (R.Y.), University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington; and Department of Neurology (R.H.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Michelle W Bell
- From the Department of Neurology (E.T.M.-L.), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL; Department of Neurology (M.W.B.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (O.A.H.), University of Texas, Houston; Palmetto Health (R.O.L.), University of South Carolina, Columbia; Department of Neurology (C.B.O.), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ; Department of Neurology (J.P.), Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA; Department of Neurology (N.P.S.), University of Alabama at Birmingham; Department of Neurology (R.Y.), University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington; and Department of Neurology (R.H.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Omotola A Hope
- From the Department of Neurology (E.T.M.-L.), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL; Department of Neurology (M.W.B.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (O.A.H.), University of Texas, Houston; Palmetto Health (R.O.L.), University of South Carolina, Columbia; Department of Neurology (C.B.O.), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ; Department of Neurology (J.P.), Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA; Department of Neurology (N.P.S.), University of Alabama at Birmingham; Department of Neurology (R.Y.), University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington; and Department of Neurology (R.H.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Rodney O Leacock
- From the Department of Neurology (E.T.M.-L.), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL; Department of Neurology (M.W.B.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (O.A.H.), University of Texas, Houston; Palmetto Health (R.O.L.), University of South Carolina, Columbia; Department of Neurology (C.B.O.), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ; Department of Neurology (J.P.), Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA; Department of Neurology (N.P.S.), University of Alabama at Birmingham; Department of Neurology (R.Y.), University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington; and Department of Neurology (R.H.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Cumara B O'Carroll
- From the Department of Neurology (E.T.M.-L.), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL; Department of Neurology (M.W.B.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (O.A.H.), University of Texas, Houston; Palmetto Health (R.O.L.), University of South Carolina, Columbia; Department of Neurology (C.B.O.), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ; Department of Neurology (J.P.), Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA; Department of Neurology (N.P.S.), University of Alabama at Birmingham; Department of Neurology (R.Y.), University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington; and Department of Neurology (R.H.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Jose Posas
- From the Department of Neurology (E.T.M.-L.), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL; Department of Neurology (M.W.B.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (O.A.H.), University of Texas, Houston; Palmetto Health (R.O.L.), University of South Carolina, Columbia; Department of Neurology (C.B.O.), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ; Department of Neurology (J.P.), Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA; Department of Neurology (N.P.S.), University of Alabama at Birmingham; Department of Neurology (R.Y.), University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington; and Department of Neurology (R.H.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Natividad P Stover
- From the Department of Neurology (E.T.M.-L.), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL; Department of Neurology (M.W.B.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (O.A.H.), University of Texas, Houston; Palmetto Health (R.O.L.), University of South Carolina, Columbia; Department of Neurology (C.B.O.), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ; Department of Neurology (J.P.), Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA; Department of Neurology (N.P.S.), University of Alabama at Birmingham; Department of Neurology (R.Y.), University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington; and Department of Neurology (R.H.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Richard Young
- From the Department of Neurology (E.T.M.-L.), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL; Department of Neurology (M.W.B.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (O.A.H.), University of Texas, Houston; Palmetto Health (R.O.L.), University of South Carolina, Columbia; Department of Neurology (C.B.O.), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ; Department of Neurology (J.P.), Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA; Department of Neurology (N.P.S.), University of Alabama at Birmingham; Department of Neurology (R.Y.), University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington; and Department of Neurology (R.H.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Roy Hamilton
- From the Department of Neurology (E.T.M.-L.), University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL; Department of Neurology (M.W.B.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Neurology (O.A.H.), University of Texas, Houston; Palmetto Health (R.O.L.), University of South Carolina, Columbia; Department of Neurology (C.B.O.), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ; Department of Neurology (J.P.), Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA; Department of Neurology (N.P.S.), University of Alabama at Birmingham; Department of Neurology (R.Y.), University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington; and Department of Neurology (R.H.), University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.
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Nathan CL, Gutierrez C. FACETS of health disparities in epilepsy surgery and gaps that need to be addressed. Neurol Clin Pract 2018; 8:340-345. [PMID: 30140586 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000000490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review Disparities in treatment and outcomes of patients with epilepsy have been identified in several distinct patient populations. The purpose of this review is to organize the literature and establish clear pathways as to why certain patient populations are not receiving epilepsy surgery. By establishing the acronym FACETS (fear of treatment, access to care, communication barriers, education, trust between patient and physician, and social support), we set up a pathway to further study this area in an organized fashion, hopefully leading to objective solutions. Recent findings Studies revealed that African American, Hispanic, and non-English-speaking patients underwent surgical treatment for epilepsy at rates significantly lower compared to white patients. Summary This article explains possible reasons outlined by FACETS for the health disparities in epilepsy surgery that exist in patients of a certain race, socioeconomic status, and language proficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody L Nathan
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (CLN), Philadelphia; and Department of Neurology (CG), University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore
| | - Camilo Gutierrez
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (CLN), Philadelphia; and Department of Neurology (CG), University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore
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Relationship between office-based provider visits and emergency department encounters among publicly-insured adults with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2018; 80:235-239. [PMID: 29429907 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The proportion of adults with epilepsy using the emergency department (ED) is high. Among this patient population, increased frequency of office-based provider visits may be associated with lesser frequency of ED encounters, and key patient features may be linked to more ED encounters. METHODS We analyzed the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey Household Component (MEPS-HC) dataset for years 2003-2014, which represents a weighted sample of 842,249 publicly-insured US adults aged ≥18years. The Hurdle Poisson model that accommodates excess zeros was used to estimate the association between office-based and ED visits. RESULTS Annual mean ED and office-based visits for publicly-insured adults with epilepsy were 0.70 and 10.8 respectively. Probability of at least one ED visit was 0.4% higher for every unit of office-based visit. Individuals in the high income category were less likely to visit the ED at least once while women with epilepsy had a higher likelihood of visiting the ED at least once. Among those who visited the ED at least once, there was a 0.3% higher likelihood of visiting the ED for every unit of office-based visit. Among individuals who visited the ED at least once, being aged 45-64years, residing in the West, and the year 2011/14 were associated with higher ED visits. CONCLUSION In this representative sample of publicly-insured adults with epilepsy, higher frequency of office visits was not associated with lower ED utilization, which may be due to underlying greater disease severity or propensity for more treatment complications.
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Grinspan ZM, Patel AD, Hafeez B, Abramson EL, Kern LM. Predicting frequent emergency department use among children with epilepsy: A retrospective cohort study using electronic health data from 2 centers. Epilepsia 2017; 59:155-169. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.13948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary M. Grinspan
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research; Weill Cornell Medicine; New York NY USA
- Department of Pediatrics; Weill Cornell Medicine; New York NY USA
- New York Presbyterian Hospital; New York NY USA
| | | | - Baria Hafeez
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research; Weill Cornell Medicine; New York NY USA
| | - Erika L. Abramson
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research; Weill Cornell Medicine; New York NY USA
- Department of Pediatrics; Weill Cornell Medicine; New York NY USA
- New York Presbyterian Hospital; New York NY USA
| | - Lisa M. Kern
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research; Weill Cornell Medicine; New York NY USA
- New York Presbyterian Hospital; New York NY USA
- Department of Medicine; Weill Cornell Medicine; New York NY USA
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Recognition of Infantile Spasms Is Often Delayed: The ASSIST Study. J Pediatr 2017; 190:215-221.e1. [PMID: 29144248 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterize and quantify diagnostic and treatment delay among children with infantile spasms, and to estimate the developmental impact of this delay. STUDY DESIGN In this cohort study, we surveyed the parents of 100 patients with infantile spasms about their experiences with diagnosis and treatment, and ascertained medical and sociodemographic factors potentially related to care of these infants. We specifically determined the latency to first visit an "effective provider," defined as a provider who identified infantile spasms, and prescribed an appropriate first-line treatment, namely adrenocorticotropic hormone, corticosteroids, or vigabatrin. Time to the first visit to an effective provider was evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression. RESULTS The median time from the onset of infantile spasms to first visit with an effective provider was 24.5 days. Only 29% of patients were evaluated by an effective provider within 1 week of infantile spasms onset. The time to first effective provider visit was associated with parental language preference, but with no other sociodemographic characteristics. Parents' suspicions that "something is wrong" were often discounted by healthcare providers, and survey respondents frequently reported that pediatricians and neurologists were unfamiliar with infantile spasms. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that substantial delay (ie, >1 week) in appropriate care is common, and suggests that the poor awareness of infantile spasms among healthcare providers is at least partly responsible for preventable and potentially significant delays in treatment.
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Shegog R, Begley CE. Clinic-Based Mobile Health Decision Support to Enhance Adult Epilepsy Self-Management: An Intervention Mapping Approach. Front Public Health 2017; 5:256. [PMID: 29043247 PMCID: PMC5632356 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2017.00256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epilepsy is a neurological disorder involving recurrent seizures. It affects approximately 5 million people in the U.S. To optimize their quality of life people with epilepsy are encouraged to engage in self-management (S-M) behaviors. These include managing their treatment (e.g., adhering to anti-seizure medication and clinical visit schedules), managing their seizures (e.g., responding to seizure episodes), managing their safety (e.g., monitoring and avoiding environmental seizure triggers), and managing their co-morbid conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression). The clinic-based Management Information Decision Support Epilepsy Tool (MINDSET) is a decision-support system founded on theory and empirical evidence. It is designed to increase awareness by adult patients (≥18 years) and their health-care provider regarding the patient's epilepsy S-M behaviors, facilitate communication during the clinic visit to prioritize S-M goals and strategies commensurate with the patient's needs, and increase the patient's self-efficacy to achieve those goals. METHODS The purpose of this paper is to describe the application of intervention mapping (IM) to develop, implement, and formatively evaluate the clinic-based MINDSET prototype and in developing implementation and evaluation plans. Deliverables comprised a logic model of the problem (IM Step 1); matrices of program objectives (IM Step 2); a program planning document comprising scope, sequence, theory-based methods, and practical strategies (IM Step 3); a functional MINDSET program prototype (IM Step 4); plans for implementation (IM Step 5); and evaluation (IM Step 6). IM provided a logical and systematic approach to developing and evaluating clinic-based decision support toward epilepsy S-M.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross Shegog
- School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Charles E. Begley
- School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
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Kutscher EJ, Joshi SM, Patel AD, Hafeez B, Grinspan ZM. Barriers to Genetic Testing for Pediatric Medicaid Beneficiaries With Epilepsy. Pediatr Neurol 2017; 73:28-35. [PMID: 28583702 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2017.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with public insurance (Medicaid) have increased barriers to specialty care in the United States. For children with epilepsy, the relationship between public insurance and barriers to genetic testing is understudied. METHODS We surveyed a sample of US child neurology clinicians. We performed quantitative and qualitative analysis of responses. RESULTS There were 302 responses (of 1982 surveyed; response rate 15%) from clinicians from 46 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, including board-certified child neurologists (82%), resident physicians (6%), nurses (3%), and nurse practitioners (3%). Clinicians felt it was more difficult to get genetic testing for patients with Medicaid insurance compared with commercial insurance, (43% vs 12%, P < 0.05), although many felt it was about the same degree of difficulty (25%) or were not sure (20%). Increased availability of testing was associated with less complex testing (P < 0.001), in-house testing (P < 0.001), and no preauthorization requirements (P < 0.001). Qualitative responses described barriers related to cost, clinician familiarity and comfort, commercial laboratories, health care organization, payer, and patient concerns. Descriptions of facilitators included lowered cost, availability of clinical genetics expertise, clinician knowledge, commercial laboratory assistance, health care organizational changes, improved payer coverage, and increased interest by parents. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric Medicaid beneficiaries with epilepsy have barriers to genetic testing, compared with children with commercial insurance, particularly for more advanced testing. Potential strategies to improve access include broader coverage, lower co-pays, increased capacity for testing outside of specialty laboratories, fewer preauthorization requirements, improved clinician education, ongoing development and dissemination of guidelines, improved availability of clinical genetics services, and continued assistance programs from commercial laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J Kutscher
- Department of Healthcare Policy & Research, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Sucheta M Joshi
- Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Anup D Patel
- Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Baria Hafeez
- Department of Healthcare Policy & Research, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Zachary M Grinspan
- Department of Healthcare Policy & Research, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York.
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Thurman DJ, Kobau R, Luo YH, Helmers SL, Zack MM. Health-care access among adults with epilepsy: The U.S. National Health Interview Survey, 2010 and 2013. Epilepsy Behav 2016; 55:184-8. [PMID: 26627980 PMCID: PMC5317396 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2015.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Revised: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Community-based and other epidemiologic studies within the United States have identified substantial disparities in health care among adults with epilepsy. However, few data analyses addressing their health-care access are representative of the entire United States. This study aimed to examine national survey data about adults with epilepsy and to identify barriers to their health care. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed data from U.S. adults in the 2010 and the 2013 National Health Interview Surveys, multistage probability samples with supplemental questions on epilepsy. We defined active epilepsy as a history of physician-diagnosed epilepsy either currently under treatment or accompanied by seizures during the preceding year. We employed SAS-callable SUDAAN software to obtain weighted estimates of population proportions and rate ratios (RRs) adjusted for sex, age, and race/ethnicity. RESULTS Compared to adults reporting no history of epilepsy, adults reporting active epilepsy were significantly more likely to be insured under Medicaid (RR=3.58) and less likely to have private health insurance (RR=0.58). Adults with active epilepsy were also less likely to be employed (RR=0.53) and much more likely to report being disabled (RR=6.14). They experience greater barriers to health-care access including an inability to afford medication (RR=2.40), mental health care (RR=3.23), eyeglasses (RR=2.36), or dental care (RR=1.98) and are more likely to report transportation as a barrier to health care (RR=5.28). CONCLUSIONS These reported substantial disparities in, and barriers to, access to health care for adults with active epilepsy are amenable to intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Thurman
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rosemarie Kobau
- Epilepsy Program, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Yao-Hua Luo
- Epilepsy Program, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sandra L Helmers
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Matthew M Zack
- Epilepsy Program, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Puka K, Smith ML, Moineddin R, Snead OC, Widjaja E. The influence of socioeconomic status on health resource utilization in pediatric epilepsy in a universal health insurance system. Epilepsia 2016; 57:455-63. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.13290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Klajdi Puka
- Department of Psychology; Hospital for Sick Children; Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Mary Lou Smith
- Department of Psychology; Hospital for Sick Children; Toronto Ontario Canada
- Department of Psychology; University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Rahim Moineddin
- Department of Family and Community Medicine; University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - O. Carter Snead
- Division of Neurology; Hospital for Sick Children; Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Elysa Widjaja
- Division of Neurology; Hospital for Sick Children; Toronto Ontario Canada
- Diagnostic Imaging; Hospital for Sick Children; Toronto Ontario Canada
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Escoffery C, Bamps Y, LaFrance WC, Stoll S, Shegog R, Buelow J, Shafer P, Thompson NJ, McGee RE, Hatfield K. Development of the Adult Epilepsy Self-Management Measurement Instrument (AESMMI). Epilepsy Behav 2015; 50:172-83. [PMID: 26303037 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2015.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy self-management is the total sum of steps that people perform to maximize seizure control, to minimize the impact of having a seizure disorder, and to maximize quality of life. As part of a phased approach to instrument development, we conducted descriptive analyses of data from epilepsy self-management items covering 10 domains of self-management gathered from 422 adults with epilepsy from multiple study sites. Participants most frequently reported performing sets of behaviors related to managing treatment and stigma, information seeking, managing symptoms, and communicating with providers. Behaviors reported with lower frequency were related to seeking social support and engaging in wellness behaviors. Significant differences for the domains were found for income, gender, and education levels but not for other different demographic variables. A subsequent analytic phase, reported in a companion article, will use factor analysis to identify and validate the subscale structure of the domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cam Escoffery
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Yvan Bamps
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - W Curt LaFrance
- Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, 593 Eddy St., Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Shelley Stoll
- University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA
| | - Ross Shegog
- University of Texas School of Public Health, 7000 Fannin St., Suite 2668, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Janice Buelow
- The Epilepsy Foundation, 8301 Professional Place, Landover, MD 20785-2353, USA
| | - Patricia Shafer
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Nancy J Thompson
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Robin E McGee
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Katherine Hatfield
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine B Baca
- From the Department of Neurology (C.B.B.), University of California Los Angeles; Department of Neurology (C.B.B.), Veterans Administration of Greater Los Angeles, CA; Department of Neurology (G.L.B.), Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit; and Wayne State University (G.L.B.), School of Medicine, Detroit, MI.
| | - Gregory L Barkley
- From the Department of Neurology (C.B.B.), University of California Los Angeles; Department of Neurology (C.B.B.), Veterans Administration of Greater Los Angeles, CA; Department of Neurology (G.L.B.), Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit; and Wayne State University (G.L.B.), School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
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Rolston JD, Ouyang D, Englot DJ, Wang DD, Chang EF. National trends and complication rates for invasive extraoperative electrocorticography in the USA. J Clin Neurosci 2015; 22:823-7. [PMID: 25669117 PMCID: PMC5501272 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2014.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Invasive electrocorticography (ECoG) is used in patients when it is difficult to localize epileptogenic foci for potential surgical resection. As MR neuroimaging has improved over the past decade, we hypothesized the utilization of ECoG diminishing over time. Using the USA Nationwide Inpatient Sample, we collected demographic and complication data on patients receiving ECoG over the years 1988-2008 and compared this to patients with medically refractory epilepsy during the same time period. A total of 695 cases using extraoperative ECoG were identified, corresponding to 3528 cases nationwide and accounting for 1.1% of patients with refractory epilepsy from 1988-2008. African Americans were less likely to receive ECoG than whites, as were patients with government insurance in comparison to those with private insurance. Large, urban, and academic hospitals were significantly more likely to perform ECoG than smaller, rural, and private practice institutions. The most frequent complication was cerebrospinal fluid leak (11.7%) and only one death was reported from the entire cohort, corresponding to an estimated six patients nationally. Invasive ECoG is a relatively safe procedure offered to a growing number of patients with refractory epilepsy each year. However, these data suggest the presence of demographic disparities in those patients receiving ECoG, possibly reflecting barriers due to race and socioeconomic status. Among patients with nonlocalized seizures, ECoG often represents their only hope for surgical treatment. We therefore must further examine the indications and efficacy of ECoG, and more work must be done to understand if and why ECoG is preferentially performed in select socioeconomic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Rolston
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Avenue, Box 0112, San Francisco, CA 94143-0112, USA.
| | - David Ouyang
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Avenue, Box 0112, San Francisco, CA 94143-0112, USA
| | - Dario J Englot
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Avenue, Box 0112, San Francisco, CA 94143-0112, USA
| | - Doris D Wang
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Avenue, Box 0112, San Francisco, CA 94143-0112, USA
| | - Edward F Chang
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Avenue, Box 0112, San Francisco, CA 94143-0112, USA
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Banta JE, Addison A, Beeson WL. Spatial patterns of epilepsy-related emergency department visits in california. J Public Health Res 2015; 4:441. [PMID: 25918697 PMCID: PMC4407042 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2015.441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Socio-demographic factors are associated with increased emergency department (ED) use among patients with epilepsy. However, there has been limited spatial analysis of such visits. Design and methods California ED visit at the patient ZIP Code level were examined using Kulldorf’s spatial scan statistic to identify clusters of increased risk for epilepsy-related visits. Logistic regression was used to examine the relative importance of patient socio-demographics, Census-based and hospital measures. Results During 2009-2011 there were 29,715,009 ED visits at 330 hospitals, of which 139,235 (0.5%) had epilepsy (International Classification of Disease-9 345.xx) as the primary diagnosis. Three large urban clusters of high epilepsy-related ED visits were centred in the cities of Los Angeles, Oakland and Stockton and a large rural cluster centred in Kern County. No consistent pattern by age, race/ethnicity, household structure, and income was observed among all clusters. Regression found only the Los Angeles cluster significant after adjusting for other measures. Conclusions Geospatial analysis within a large and geographically diverse region identified a cluster within its most populous city having an increased risk of ED visits for epilepsy independent of selected socio-demographic and hospital measures. Additional research is necessary to determine whether elevated rates of ED visits represent increased prevalence of epilepsy or an inequitable system of epilepsy care. Significance for public health There have been few spatial analyses regarding treatment for epilepsy. This paper significantly expands upon previous work by simultaneously considering multiple urban centres and sparsely populated agricultural and desert/mountain areas in a large state. Furthermore, most epilepsy studies involve one system of care or funding source (such as Department of Veterans Affairs, Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance plans). This paper considers all funding sources at community-based hospitals. Patient socio-demographics, area-based summaries of socio-demographics, and basic hospital characteristics explain most of the observed spatial variation in rates of emergency department (ED) visits related to epilepsy. However, preliminary spatial analysis demonstrated that an area within downtown Los Angeles did have a higher rate of epilepsy-related visits compared to the rest of the state. A more comprehensive surveillance approach with ED visit data could be readily applied to other large geographic areas and be useful both for on-going monitoring and public health intervention
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim E Banta
- School of Public Health, Loma Linda University , CA
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Perceptions and experiences of epilepsy among patients from black ethnic groups in South London. Prim Health Care Res Dev 2014; 16:450-60. [DOI: 10.1017/s1463423614000437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveThe National Institute of Clinical Excellence suggested black ethnic minorities with epilepsy have different cultural, communicative and health-care needs. However, little is known about these despite increasing migration of black African and Caribbean people to Europe. This study aims to explore perceptions and experiences of epilepsy among black African and Caribbean people in South London.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were undertaken with 11 participants, to examine their beliefs and perceptions of living with epilepsy. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, codes generated and thematic analysis undertaken.ResultsAfrican participants described supernatural causes for epilepsy and experienced considerable stigma whereas Caribbean participants described epilepsy as a ‘normal illness’. However, both African and Caribbean participants experienced social restrictions arising from their epilepsy.ConclusionsThe findings of higher levels of perceived stigma and social restriction seen in African participants may be a continuation of beliefs reported in participants’ country of origin. There is also evidence that views regarding epilepsy transition through generations vary depending on place of birth.Practical ImplicationsHealth-care professionals need to be aware of and engage with the particular beliefs and concerns of black African and Caribbean people to achieve equity in health outcomes.
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Szaflarski M. Social determinants of health in epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2014; 41:283-9. [PMID: 24998313 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Revised: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/07/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Social factors have been identified as key drivers of epilepsy care, outcomes, and disparities, but there is a limited understanding of what these factors are and how they translate into disparities. This targeted review provides an overview of the social determinants of health framework and applies this perspective to the literature about social and psychosocial factors in epilepsy; a social determinants of health--epilepsy model is proposed. The key social determinants of health in epilepsy include socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity, age, and gender. For example, low socioeconomic status and minority status have been associated with a higher risk of epilepsy, more hospitalizations and emergency room visits (versus neurology services), antiepileptic drug nonadherence, and a lower rate of epilepsy surgery. Such differences in care/treatment and outcomes translate into health disparities, many of which are considered unjust (inequitable) and modifiable through social action. Other social determinants of health include structural and sociocultural contextual conditions (e.g., health economy, policy, and social stigma/discrimination) and mediating mechanisms including material (e.g., housing), behavioral/biological (e.g., adherence), psychosocial (e.g., perceived stigma), and health system (e.g., access) factors. There are complex relationships among social determinants of health in epilepsy, which remain poorly understood and hamper efforts to address and eliminate disparities in epilepsy care and outcomes. Further empirical work grounded in sound theory and robust methodologies is needed to identify points of intervention and design effective and socially acceptable solutions to any pervasive disparities in epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Szaflarski
- Department of Sociology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, HHB 460H, 1720 2nd Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35294-1152, USA.
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Kaiboriboon K, Schiltz NK, Bakaki PM, Lhatoo SD, Koroukian SM. Premature mortality in poor health and low income adults with epilepsy. Epilepsia 2014; 55:1781-8. [PMID: 25244361 DOI: 10.1111/epi.12789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine mortality and causes of death (CODs) in socioeconomically disadvantaged persons with epilepsy (PWEs) in the United States. METHODS We performed a retrospective open cohort analysis using Ohio Medicaid claims data between 1992 and 2008 to assess mortality and COD in 68,785 adult Medicaid beneficiaries with epilepsy. Case fatality (CF), mortality rates (MRs), standardized mortality ratios (SMRs), and years of potential life lost (YPLLs) were calculated. The SMRs were estimated to compare risk of death in PWEs with that in the general Medicaid population with and without disabilities. Proportionate mortality ratios (PMRs), YPLLs, and SMRs for specific COD were also obtained. RESULTS There were 12,630 deaths in PWEs. CF was 18.4%, the age-race-sex adjusted MR was 18.6/1,000 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI], 18.3-18.9). The SMR was 1.8 (95% CI, 1.8-1.9) when compared to the general Medicaid population, and was 1.4 (95% CI, 1.3-1.6) when compared to those with disabilities. The average YPLL was 16.9 years (range 1-47 years). Both epilepsy and comorbid conditions significantly contributed to premature mortality in PWEs. Cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and unintentional injuries were the most common COD and account for a large proportion of YPLLs. Deaths from epilepsy-related causes occurred in about 10% of the cases. SIGNIFICANCE Socioeconomically deprived PWEs, especially young adults, experience high mortality and die 17 years prematurely. The high mortality in Medicaid beneficiaries with epilepsy affirms that comorbid conditions and epilepsy play a crucial role in premature death. Management of comorbid conditions is, at a minimum, as important as epilepsy management, and therefore deserves more attention from physicians, particularly those who care for Medicaid beneficiaries with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kitti Kaiboriboon
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A; Behavioral and Neurological Outcome Centers, Neurological Institute, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A
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Hamer HM, Kostev K. Sociodemographic disparities in administration of antiepileptic drugs to adults with epilepsy in Germany: a retrospective, database study of drug prescriptions. CNS Drugs 2014; 28:753-9. [PMID: 25005594 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-014-0187-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Large epidemiological databases facilitate the study of medical care in different subgroups of the population and how such care compares with standard treatment guidelines. This study aimed for such analyses regarding utilization of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) for epilepsy in Germany. METHOD The data source was the Disease Analyzer(®) database that is representative for the German population and assembles anonymous demographic and medical (diagnoses, prescriptions) data obtained from the practice computer system of general practitioners and specialists throughout Germany. A total of 43,712 adult patients with an epilepsy diagnosis (International Classification of Diseases, 10th edition [ICD10] code: G40.X) seen in 2010-2012 by 346 neurologists were retrospectively analysed according to sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidity, and AED treatment. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS As compared with women, men were less likely to receive lamotrigine (OR 0.68; 95 % CI 0.65-0.72; p < 0.001) and were treated preferably with carbamazepine (OR 1.29; 95 % CI 1.23-1.35; p < 0.001). As compared with patients covered by private health insurance (PHI), patients with statutory health insurance (SHI) were treated more often with valproate (OR 1.19; 95 % CI 1.07-1.31; p < 0.001) and showed a higher rate of obesity (SHI: 3.1 %; PHI: 1.6 %; p < 0.001), while PHI was associated with administration of levetiracetam (OR 1.27; 95 % CI 1.16-1.4; p < 0.001). Carbamazepine (OR 1.25; 95 % CI 1.17-1.31; p < 0.001) and primidone (OR 1.23; 95 % CI 1.08-1.38; p < 0.001) were administered to a larger extent in rural versus urban areas. Lamotrigine (OR 1.31; 95 % CI 1.23-1.39; p < 0.001) was used more often in West than in East Germany. Living in an urban community raised the likelihood of being treated with levetiracetam (OR 1.23; 95 % CI 1.17-1.28; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In spite of common guidelines, AED treatment differed significantly among adults with epilepsy in Germany. Besides gender, type of health insurance and place of residence strongly influenced AED administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajo M Hamer
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, University of Erlangen, Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany,
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Bautista RED, Shapovalov D, Saada F, Pizzi MA. The societal integration of individuals with epilepsy: perspectives for the 21st century. Epilepsy Behav 2014; 35:42-9. [PMID: 24798409 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Revised: 04/06/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common neurologic disorder seen throughout the world. Advances in therapy have made it possible for persons with epilepsy (PWEs) to have improved seizure control and a better quality of life. However, it is not entirely clear whether this has resulted in their successful integration into society. This review examines the societal integration of PWEs, identifying both the progress made and the challenges that continue to hamper further advances. In general, PWEs are more integrated in western-oriented cultures. However, there continue to be ongoing difficulties due to poor education and intellectual functioning, poor social and family support, the undertreatment of coexisting psychiatric conditions, transportation and mobility limitations, and problems obtaining employment. This review also discusses the effects of low socioeconomic status on integration and the persisting prejudices that affect certain racial groups. Most importantly, this review underscores the fact that societal stigma towards PWEs is still very much alive. At the beginning of the 21st century, PWEs still encounter difficulties in their quest for full societal integration. Along with medical advances being made to improve seizure control, much still has to be done to bring about the reforms necessary to help PWEs live more meaningful and productive lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramon Edmundo D Bautista
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, University of Florida Health Sciences Center/Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
| | - Denys Shapovalov
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, University of Florida Health Sciences Center/Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Fahed Saada
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, University of Florida Health Sciences Center/Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Michael A Pizzi
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, University of Florida Health Sciences Center/Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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Kharkar S, Pillai J, Rochestie D, Haneef Z. Socio-Demographic Influences on Epilepsy Outcomes in an Inner-City Population. Seizure 2014; 23:290-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2014.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2013] [Revised: 12/31/2013] [Accepted: 01/02/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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