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Kim RG, Patel S, Satre DD, Shumway M, Chen JY, Magee C, Wong RJ, Monto A, Cheung R, Khalili M. Telehepatology Satisfaction Is Associated with Ethnicity: The Real-World Experience of a Vulnerable Population with Fatty Liver Disease. Dig Dis Sci 2024; 69:732-742. [PMID: 38217682 PMCID: PMC10960743 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-023-08222-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic began, telemedicine use has transformed healthcare delivery. Yet there is concern that telemedicine may widen care disparities for vulnerable populations, and patient experience data are limited. AIMS We aimed to assess patient satisfaction with hepatology-related telemedicine (telehepatology) for delivery of fatty liver disease (FLD) care in a safety-net healthcare system. METHODS Adult patients with FLD were surveyed regarding satisfaction with telehepatology. Clinical, demographic, resources, and social determinants of health (SDoH) data were collected to identify factors associated with satisfaction through multivariable modeling. RESULTS From June 2020 to March 2022, 220 participants were enrolled: the median age was 52 years, 37% were men, and 68% were Hispanic. One hundred nineteen (54%) had prior telehepatology experience. Overall, satisfaction was high; 70% reported being somewhat or very satisfied. On univariate analysis, Hispanic ethnicity (versus non-Hispanic, OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.1-0.9, p = 0.03) and limited access to personal cellphone/internet (OR 0.16, 95% CI 0.04-0.6, p = 0.01) were associated with lower satisfaction. On multivariable logistic regression modeling adjusted for pandemic duration, age, sex, severity of liver disease, and coexisting liver disease, Hispanic ethnicity and lack of personal cellphone/internet remained independently associated with lower telehepatology satisfaction (OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.07-0.9, p = 0.03 and OR 0.2, 95% CI 0.04-0.9, p = 0.04, respectively). The association remained statistically significant after inclusion of various SDoH in the multivariable model. CONCLUSIONS Satisfaction with telehepatology among FLD patients in a safety-net clinical setting was high overall. However, Hispanic ethnicity and lack of personal cellphone/internet were independently associated with lower telehepatology satisfaction. A better understanding of patients' experience with telehepatology is needed to identify reasons for dissatisfaction, and in-person visits should remain an option for patients to ensure equitable care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca G Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shyam Patel
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zuckerberg San Francisco General, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Derek D Satre
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Martha Shumway
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Y Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zuckerberg San Francisco General, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Catherine Magee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zuckerberg San Francisco General, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Robert J Wong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Alexander Monto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Veterans Affairs San Francisco Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ramsey Cheung
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Mandana Khalili
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zuckerberg San Francisco General, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Passamani RS, de Vargas Ciello H, Brugnaro BH, Dos Santos AN. The psychometric properties and feasibility of the Alberta infant motor scale used in telehealth: A scoping review. Early Hum Dev 2024; 189:105941. [PMID: 38237305 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2024.105941] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telehealth can be a viable option for improving equitable access to early motor assessment for financially vulnerable individuals. AIM This review aimed to identify the psychometric properties of the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS) when applied via telehealth and assess its feasibility. METHODS Papers were systematically retrieved from electronic databases until October 4, 2023. We included studies that assessed the motor development of infants using the AIMS through telehealth. RESULTS Thirteen studies, encompassing 897 infants (449 male and 396 female), were included in this review. Among them, 805 were typical infants and 92 were at risk of motor delay. The age range of participants spanned from 4.9 weeks to 20 months. The studies found good concurrent validity between telehealth and in-person assessments (ICC > 0.98, SEM < 1.6, mean difference = 0.5) and good to excellent reliability (ICC > 0.80) using home videos recorded by parents or video calls with researchers. Telehealth was perceived as feasible by parents, who expressed high satisfaction, and the quality of images and assessments met commendable standards. CONCLUSION Considering the limited number of studies that have assessed infants with neuromotor disorders, this scale has the potential for telehealth application in evaluating typical infants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Herika de Vargas Ciello
- Department of Health Science, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Araranguá, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Helena Brugnaro
- Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriana Neves Dos Santos
- Department of Health Science, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Araranguá, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
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Petrie S, Peters P. Health Service Implementation and Antifragile Characteristics in Rural Communities: A Dirt Research Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6418. [PMID: 37510650 PMCID: PMC10379114 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20146418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
The implementation of health and care services within rural communities requires necessary sensitivity to the unique facets of rural places. Often, rural service implementation is executed with inappropriate frameworks based on assumptions derived from urban centres. To understand the characteristics of rural communities that can facilitate successful program implementation better, ethnographic accounts of rural health and care services were compiled in rural communities within Canada, Australia, and Iceland. Ethnographic accounts are presented in the first and third person, with an accompanying reflexive analysis immediately following these accounts. Antifragility was the guiding concept of interest when investigating rural implementation environments, a concept that posits that a system can gain stability from uncertainty rather than lose integrity. These ethnographic accounts provide evidence of antifragile operators such as optionality, hybrid leadership, starting small, nonlinear evaluation, and avoiding suboptimisation. It is shown that the integration of these antifragile operators allows programs to function better in complex rural systems. Further, the presence of capable individuals with sufficient knowledge in several disciplines and with depth in a single discipline allows for innovative local thinking initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Petrie
- Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Paul Peters
- Department of Health Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
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Cardile D, Corallo F, Cappadona I, Ielo A, Bramanti P, Lo Buono V, Ciurleo R, De Cola MC. Auditing the Audits: A Systematic Review on Different Procedures in Telemedicine. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4484. [PMID: 36901491 PMCID: PMC10001883 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Telemedicine is a process of delivering health care using information and communication technologies. Audit and feedback (A&F) constitute a systematic intervention that is aimed at collecting data, which are subsequently compared with reference standards and then returned to health care operators through feedback meetings. The aim of this review is to analyse different audit procedures on and by mean of telemedicine services and to identify a practice that is more effective than the others. Systematic searches were performed in three databases evaluating studies focusing on clinical audits performed on and by means of telemedicine systems. Twenty-five studies were included in the review. Most of them focused on telecounselling services with an audit and a maximum duration of one year. Recipients of the audit were telemedicine systems and service users (general practitioners, referring doctors, and patients). Data resulting from the audit were inherent to the telemedicine service. The overall data collected concerned the number of teleconsultations, service activity, reasons for referral, response times, follow-up, reasons why treatment was not completed, technical issues, and other information specific to each telemedicine service. Only two of the considered studies dealt with organizational aspects, and of these, only one analysed communicative aspects. The complexity and heterogeneity of the treatments and services provided meant that no index of uniformity could be identified. Certainly, some audits were performed in an overlapping manner in the different studies, and these show that although attention is often paid to workers' opinions, needs, and issues, little interest was shown in communicative/organizational and team dynamics. Given the importance and influence that communication has in teamwork and care settings, an audit protocol that takes into account intra- and extra-team communication processes could be essential to improving the well-being of operators and the quality of the service provided.
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Marks D, Kitcher S, Attrazic E, Hing W, Cottrell M. The Health Economic Impact of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Delivered by Telehealth: A Systematic Review. Int J Telerehabil 2022. [DOI: 10.5195/ijt.2022.6524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: While the efficacy of telehealth in musculoskeletal physiotherapy has been supported, its cost effectiveness has not been established. Therefore, the objective of this review was to ascertain the health economic impact of outpatient musculoskeletal physiotherapy delivered by telehealth and describe methodology utilized to date. Methods: Electronic searching of PubMed, CINHAL, PEDro, and Web of Science databases was undertaken alongside handsearching for publications comprising: population: adults with musculoskeletal disorders managed in any type of outpatient ambulatory setting; intervention: physiotherapy delivered by telehealth comparison: traditional in-person physiotherapy; and, outcomes: economic analyses reporting costs and consequences. Appraisal was undertaken with the Downs and Black Questionnaire and the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards Checklist. Results: Eleven studies of mixed methodological quality were included. Most were conducted in the public sector, from the economic perspective of the health service funder. Telehealth consistently produced health outcomes akin to in-person care. In all but one, telehealth was less costly, with savings achieved by reducing in-person consultations and travel costs. Conclusion: Telehealth is as effective and cheaper than in-person physiotherapy for musculoskeletal disorders in public hospital outpatients. Further health economic research is needed to clarify the economic impact of telehealth upon non-government providers of musculoskeletal physiotherapy.
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Craig M, Chopra A, Lasry O, Dea N, Charest-Morin R, Street J, Paquette S, Dvorak M, Kwon BK, Fisher C, Ailon T. Telehealth for outpatient spine consultation: What do the patients think? INTERDISCIPLINARY NEUROSURGERY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.inat.2021.101462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Clinical pathways for the management of low back pain from primary to specialised care: a systematic review. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2022; 31:1846-1865. [PMID: 35378631 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-022-07180-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Clinical pathways for low back pain (LBP) have potential to improve clinical outcomes and health service efficiency. This systematic review aimed to synthesise the evidence for clinical pathways for LBP and/or radicular leg pain from primary to specialised care and to describe key pathway components. METHODS Electronic database searches (CINAHL, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, EMBASE) from 2006 onwards were conducted with further manual and citation searching. Two independent reviewers conducted eligibility assessment, data extraction and quality appraisal. A narrative synthesis of findings is presented. RESULTS From 18,443 identified studies, 28 papers met inclusion criteria. Pathways were developed primarily to address over-burdened secondary care services in high-income countries and almost universally used interface services with a triage remit at the primary-secondary care boundary. Accordingly, evaluation of healthcare resource use and patient flow predominated, with interface services associated with enhanced service efficiency through decreased wait times and appropriate use of consultant appointments. Low quality study designs, heterogeneous outcomes and insufficient comparative data precluded definitive conclusions regarding clinical- and cost-effectiveness. Pathways demonstrated basic levels of care integration across the primary-secondary care boundary. CONCLUSIONS The limited volume of research evaluating clinical pathways for LBP/radicular leg pain and spanning primary and specialised care predominantly used interface services to ensure appropriate specialised care referrals with associated increased efficiency of care delivery. Pathways demonstrated basic levels of care integration across healthcare boundaries. Well-designed randomised controlled trials to explore the potential of clinical pathways to improve clinical outcomes, deliver cost-effective, guideline-concordant care and enhance care integration are required.
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Zischke C, Simas V, Hing W, Milne N, Spittle A, Pope R. The utility of physiotherapy assessments delivered by telehealth: A systematic review. J Glob Health 2021; 11:04072. [PMID: 34956637 PMCID: PMC8684795 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.11.04072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telehealth use is increasing due to its ability to overcome service access barriers and provide continued care when disease transmission is of concern. However, little is known of the validity, reliability and utility of performing physiotherapy assessments using synchronous forms of telehealth across all physiotherapy practice areas. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the current clinometric value of performing physiotherapy assessments using synchronous forms of telehealth across all areas of physiotherapy practice. METHODS A comprehensive search of databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, The Cochrane Library, Embase and EBSCO) was undertaken to identify studies investigating the clinometric value of performing physiotherapy assessments using synchronous forms of telehealth across all physiotherapy practice areas. Following selection, a quality appraisal was conducted using the Brink and Louw or Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Evidence regarding validity, reliability and utility of synchronous telehealth physiotherapy assessments was extracted and synthesised using a critical narrative approach. RESULTS Thirty-nine studies conducted in a variety of simulated (n = 15) or real-world telehealth environments (n = 24), were included. The quality of the validity, reliability and utility studies varied. Assessments including range of movement, muscle strength, endurance, pain, special orthopaedic tests (shoulder/elbow), Berg Balance Scale, timed up and go, timed stance test, six-minute walk test, steps in 360-degree turn, Movement Assessment Battery for Children (2nd Edition), step test, ABILHAND assessment, active straight leg raise, and circumferential measures of the upper limb were reported as valid/reliable in limited populations and settings (many with small sample sizes). Participants appeared to embrace telehealth technology use, with most studies reporting high levels of participant satisfaction. If given a choice, many reported a preference for in-person physiotherapy assessments. Some inconsistencies in visual/auditory quality and challenges with verbal/non-verbal communication methods were reported. Telehealth was considered relatively cost-effective once services were established. CONCLUSIONS Performing physiotherapy assessments using synchronous forms of telehealth appears valid and reliable for specific assessment types in limited populations. Further research is needed in all areas of physiotherapy practice, to strengthen the evidence surrounding its clinometric value. Clinicians contemplating using this assessment mode should consider the client/family preferences, assessment requirements, cultural needs, environment, cost considerations, access and confidence using technology. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION PROSPERO: CRD42018108166.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cherie Zischke
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Bond University, Robina, Queensland, Australia
- School of Allied Health, Exercise and Sports Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Vinicius Simas
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Bond University, Robina, Queensland, Australia
| | - Wayne Hing
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Bond University, Robina, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nikki Milne
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Bond University, Robina, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alicia Spittle
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rodney Pope
- School of Allied Health, Exercise and Sports Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Albury, New South Wales, Australia
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Adams L, Lester S, Hoon E, van der Haak H, Proudman C, Hall C, Whittle S, Proudman S, Hill CL. Patient satisfaction and acceptability with telehealth at specialist medical outpatient clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia. Intern Med J 2021; 51:1028-1037. [PMID: 34213046 PMCID: PMC8444675 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Outpatient clinics were shifted rapidly to telehealth in Australia during the Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19) pandemic, drastically altering patient care and experience. Aims To investigate patient satisfaction and acceptability of telehealth consultations during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Methods Prospective observation study conducted in two hospital rheumatology outpatient departments (OPD) undertaking telehealth consultations during COVID‐19. A modified version of a validated telehealth evaluation survey was posted to all patients attending the telehealth OPD rheumatology clinics, including balanced 5‐point Likert scales and free‐text responses. Cluster analysis was applied to the Likert‐scale questions, alongside thematic analysis of free‐text responses. Results There were 128 respondents (29% response rate), of which 69.5% were women and the majority (87.5%) was aged 50 years or older. All telehealth consultations were conducted by telephone. Nearly one‐fifth of patients indicated consistent dissatisfaction with telehealth across the range of questions. These patients were older, reported lower educational qualifications and lower health literacy scores and lacked access to the Internet. While many patients found this mode of consultation to be convenient, patients expressed concerns regarding absence of physical examination. A recurrent theme was a desire for a mixed‐model clinic in the future, with flexibility of having both telehealth and face‐to‐face consultations. Conclusions This study offers unique insights into patients' experiences with telehealth, which until the current global pandemic, has been an uncommon mode of consultation delivery in urban areas. This study suggests when defining the place of telehealth in future healthcare delivery, patient perspective and careful patient selection will be key. Disease progression, language and cognitive ability, health literacy, technology access and patient and clinician preference are important considerations when deciding how effectively to embed and integrate telehealth into consultations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucinda Adams
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susan Lester
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Hoon
- Discipline of General Practice, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Heather van der Haak
- Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Charlotte Proudman
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Cindy Hall
- Discipline of General Practice, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Samuel Whittle
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susanna Proudman
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Catherine L Hill
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Rheumatology Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Altulaihi BA, Alharbi KG, Alhassan AM, Altamimi AM, Al Akeel MA. Physician's Perception Toward Using Telemedicine During COVID-19 Pandemic in King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2021; 13:e16107. [PMID: 34350074 PMCID: PMC8325927 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.16107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The novel coronavirus, officially known as COVID-19, was first reported in Wuhan, China, in December of 2019. Since that time, medical services in Saudi Arabia have adapted to the situation by delivering medical care via virtual clinics. Therefore, the aim of the study is to assess physicians' perception and the level of satisfaction with telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods This was a cross-sectional study that included family medicine consultants and fellows who had used telemedicine in primary health care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It was conducted using an online validated questionnaire. The questionnaire was completed by 219 family medicine consultants and fellows, after obtaining their informed consent. The data that were extracted from the questionnaire included demographics, level of satisfaction, and questions related to their experience with telemedicine. Results Two hundred and nineteen participants enrolled in this study with 50.6% males and 49.4% females. The overall level of physicians’ satisfaction with telemedicine was 64.3%. However, only one-third preferred telemedicine over office visits. Of these, 60% were males and 40% were females. The only factor that had a statistically significant effect on the preference of office visits or telemedicine was time efficiency (p-value < 0.001). Of those who preferred office visits over telemedicine, 52% of them cited ease of discussion and the ability to make a comprehensive physical examination as the most important reasons for choosing office visits. Technologic issues were the least important factor for choosing either clinic (4.1%). Of those who preferred telemedicine, avoiding contact with patients suspected of COVID-19 was the most commonly cited factor (27.4%). Family medicine physicians face multiple barriers while using telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic. The most commonly cited barrier was the inability to make a full and comprehensive assessment of the patient. Conclusions In the setting of highly transmissible disease epidemics, telemedicine has a lot of potential for providing quick and safe care that is appropriate for screening and management. Based on our findings, using telemedicine should be encouraged by improving physicians’ skills in this field since telemedicine is a crucial step to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission and provide community-wide treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bader A Altulaihi
- Family and Community Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Khalid G Alharbi
- Family Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, SAU
| | | | - Abdullah M Altamimi
- Family Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, SAU
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The impacts of and outcomes from telehealth delivered in prisons: A systematic review. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251840. [PMID: 33999946 PMCID: PMC8128277 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the delivery of healthcare services within prison systems is underpinned by different models, access to timely and optimal healthcare is often constrained by multifaceted factors. Telehealth has been used as an alternative approach to conventional care. To date, much of the focus has been on evaluation of telehealth interventions within certain geographical contexts such as rural and remote communities. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the evidence base to date for the impacts of, and outcomes from, telehealth delivered in prisons. METHODS This systematic review was underpinned by best practice in the conduct and reporting of systematic reviews. A systematic search was conducted to reinforce the literature selection process. The modified McMaster Critical Appraisal Tool was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. A narrative synthesis of the study outcomes was undertaken. RESULTS Twenty-nine quantitative studies were included. Telehealth interventions were greatly varied in terms of types of healthcare services, implementation process and intervention parameters. Methodological concerns such as rigour in data collection and analysis, and psychometric properties of outcome measures were commonly identified. Process-related outcomes and telehealth outcomes were the two overarching categories identified. CONCLUSION This systematic review provides mixed evidence on the impact of, and outcomes from, telehealth in prisons. While the evidence base does highlight some positive impacts of telehealth, which at the least, is as effective as conventional care while achieving patient satisfaction, it is also important to consider the local context and drivers that may influence what, when and how telehealth services are provided. Addressing critical factors throughout the lifecycle of telehealth is equally important for successful implementation and sustainability.
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Timm B, O'Connor E, Liodakis P, Jayarajan J, Bolton D. We still need the clinic; patient perceptions on doctor-in-training delivered telehealth versus in-person consultation. ANZ J Surg 2021; 90:658-659. [PMID: 32421936 DOI: 10.1111/ans.15884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brennan Timm
- Department of Urology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,North Eastern Urology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ellen O'Connor
- Department of Urology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Liodakis
- Department of Urology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,North Eastern Urology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jyotsna Jayarajan
- Department of Urology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,North Eastern Urology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Damien Bolton
- Department of Urology, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Haveland S, Islam S. Key Considerations in Ensuring a Safe Regional Telehealth Care Model: A Systematic Review. Telemed J E Health 2021; 28:602-612. [PMID: 33956524 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2020.0580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: This literature review sets out to increase the knowledge on patient safety within the telehealth modality of care, to inform the relevant local health service departments on the key considerations to minimize patient harm. Methods: A systematic search in Medline and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Google Scholar, and the University of New England (UNE) Library Search was conducted. A combination of key terms "Telehealth" OR "Telecare" OR "Telemedicine" AND "patient safety" AND "rural" was used. Based on the screening and eligibility criteria, 21 peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2015 and 2020 were included in the review. Results and Discussion: On evaluating the included studies, three main themes and various corresponding subthemes emerged. The main themes were that of telehealth experience (TE), telehealth outcomes (TO), and telehealth risks (TR), with the corresponding subthemes of telehealth experience from a patient perspective (TE-PT), telehealth experience from a carer perspective (TE-CR), telehealth experience from a clinician perspective (TE-CN), positive telehealth (TO-P), and negative telehealth outcomes (TO-N), and patient (TR-PT) and clinician telehealth risks (TR-CN). Conclusions: The results suggest that patients generally have positive experiences and are accepting telehealth as a modality of care. Furthermore, patient outcomes appear to be comparable with in-person care, with additional benefits of lower costs to both the service and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siggy Haveland
- Mid North Coast Local Health District, New South Wales, Health, Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shahidul Islam
- School of Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
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Mousa AY, Broce M, Duvall N, AbuRahma AF. A proposed protocol for the comparison of virtual to physical health assessments and treatment plans for patients presenting for initial vascular clinic visits. Vascular 2019; 28:205-211. [PMID: 31711374 DOI: 10.1177/1708538119888342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The current manuscript contains a protocol proposal for a prospective research trial comparing virtual vascular clinic visits to actual physical clinic visits. Patient dissatisfaction can increase because of the complexities associated with navigating modern health care systems. It is easy to speculate that some of this dissatisfaction is associated with travel, wait times and other issues that arise during routine clinic visits. The authors of recent studies have demonstrated that it is possible and feasible to conduct many routine visits remotely. It is our belief that virtual health assessments and treatment plans (VHAT) conducted remotely can be as effective, perhaps be more efficient and increase patient satisfaction when compared to regular physical health assessments and treatment plans (PHAT). Physicians want to provide optimal health care; however, in geographically isolated areas such as some locations in West Virginia that can be a challenge. It seems reasonable to believe that monitoring patients with telehealth technology, collecting on-going real time data and conducting VHAT can provide high-quality health care for patients. It can also help to classify health risk, increase patient and medical staff satisfaction, decrease staff time for visits, while at the same time increase the efficiency of the follow-up process. We plan to compare the physician assessments and future treatment plans made using VHAT to those made after PHAT. It is believed that VHAT will be in agreement with those made with PHAT. Aims/objectives: The primary objective of the current project is to compare assessment and future treatment plans for low-risk patients made via VHAT and PHAT visits. A secondary objective is to measure patient and physician satisfaction. Methods Study hypotheses: 1. There will be good agreement (kappa coefficient ≥ 0.80) between VHAT and PHAT assessments and treatment plans. More specifically, VHAT and PHAT assessments will be used to classify patients into low, moderate and high risk for intervention and there will be good agreement between the two methods. 2. Patient satisfaction will be greater for VHAT as compared to PHAT visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albeir Y Mousa
- Department of Surgery, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center/West Virginia University, Charleston Area Medical Center, Vascular Center of Excellence, Charleston, WV, USA
| | - Mike Broce
- Center for Health Services and Outcomes Research, Charleston Area Medical Center Health Education and Research Institute, Charleston, WV, USA
| | - Nancy Duvall
- Center for Clinical Sciences Research, Charleston Area Medical Center Health Education and Research Institute, Charleston, WV, USA
| | - Ali F AbuRahma
- Department of Surgery, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center/West Virginia University, Charleston Area Medical Center, Vascular Center of Excellence, Charleston, WV, USA
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Cottrell M, Judd P, Comans T, Easton P, Chang AT. Comparing fly-in fly-out and telehealth models for delivering advanced-practice physiotherapy services in regional Queensland: An audit of outcomes and costs. J Telemed Telecare 2019; 27:32-38. [PMID: 31280639 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x19858036] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recruitment of advanced-practice physiotherapists to regional and rural healthcare facilities in Queensland, Australia remains a challenge. To overcome this barrier, two different service delivery models (Fly-In, Fly-Out (FIFO), Telehealth) were trialled by one regional facility. This study aims to describe the economic- and service-related outcomes of these two methods of service delivery. METHODS A retrospective audit was conducted where two nine-week time periods were selected for each service delivery model. Outcomes of interests include patient demographics and case-mix, service utilisation, clinical actions, adverse events and costs. Net financial position for both models was calculated based upon costs incurred and revenue generated by service activity. RESULTS A total of 33 appointment slots were recorded for each service delivery model. Patient case-mix was variable, where the Telehealth model predominately involved patients with musculoskeletal spinal conditions managed from a neurosurgical waiting list. Appointment slot utilisation and pattern of referral for further investigations were similar between models. No safety incidents occurred in either service delivery model. An estimated cost-savings of 13% for the Telehealth model could be achieved when compared to the FIFO model. DISCUSSION Telehealth is a safe, efficient and viable option when compared to a traditional in-person outreach service, while providing cost-savings. Telehealth should be seen as a service delivery medium in which sustainable recruitment of advanced-practice physiotherapists to regional and rural healthcare facilities can be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Cottrell
- Physiotherapy Department, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Australia
| | - Perry Judd
- Physiotherapy Department, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Australia
| | - Tracy Comans
- Centre for Health Services Research, University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Paula Easton
- Physiotherapy Department, Mackay Base Hospital, Australia
| | - Angela T Chang
- Centre for Allied Health Research, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Australia
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Abstract
The average annual rate of tuberculosis (TB) among Inuit in Canada is now more than 290 times higher than Canadian born non-Indigenous people. How did this happen? Using the Territory of Nunavut as a case example, the roots of this situation can largely be traced back to social determinants of health and challenges in access to health care. Half (52%) of all Nunavut residents live in social housing, often under overcrowded conditions. Many experience food insecurity, with food prices in Nunavut that are twice those in southern Canada. Sixty percent of Nunavut residents smoke. Challenges in health care delivery include the small isolated communities, with few roads and difficult weather conditions during the long winters, which impede the ability to reach or provide healthcare, staff that arrive with little TB experience or cultural knowledge, multiple competing health care demands, limited resources and high staff turnover. The housing shortage is not only a social determinant of health, it also impacts the ability to hire new staff or mount an effective response in the event of an outbreak. Yet despite these challenges, progress has been made. Tuberculosis care in Nunavut includes active case finding, contact tracing for all cases of infectious TB, and screening of school age children. Rapid testing with the GeneXpert© platform has resulted in a quicker diagnosis of active TB, earlier treatment (preventing progression of disease) and less transmission. Progressively, there has been a switch from plain film to digital x-rays reducing x-ray turnaround time from as long as two to three weeks to one or two days. Standard treatment protocols include quadruple therapy until sensitivities are known, the use of home isolation for active cases and directly observed treatment (DOT) for both latent and active TB. Special access to rifapentine (Priftin), and its use in combination therapy (3HP), requires only once weekly treatments that can be completed in 12 visits instead of 78 visits for isoniazid (INH) or 120 visits for rifampin, which increases adherence and greatly reduces the health care resources needed to treat TB. In October 2017, the Honourable Jane Philpott, then Minister of Health and now Minister of Indigenous Services, and Natan Obed, president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) announced the establishment of a Task Force to develop an Inuit TB Elimination Action Framework, accompanied by regional action plans. It is hoped that the task force, and current efforts in Nunavut, will lead to the long term changes needed to ultimately eliminate TB among Inuit in Canada.
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Karran EL, Hillier SL, Yau YH, McAuley JH, Moseley GL. A quasi-randomised, controlled, feasibility trial of GLITtER (Green Light Imaging Interpretation to Enhance Recovery)-a psychoeducational intervention for adults with low back pain attending secondary care. PeerJ 2018; 6:e4301. [PMID: 29404212 PMCID: PMC5797685 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.4301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although it is broadly accepted that clinicians should endeavour to reassure patients with low back pain, to do so can present a significant clinical challenge. Guidance for how to provide effective reassurance is scarce and there may be a need to counter patient concerns arising from misinterpretation of spinal imaging findings. ‘GLITtER’ (Green Light Imaging Intervention to Enhance Recovery) was developed as a standardised method of communicating imaging findings in a manner that is reassuring and promotes engagement in an active recovery. This feasibility study is an important step towards definitive testing of its effect. Methods This feasibility study was a prospective, quasi-randomised, parallel trial with longitudinal follow-up, involving sampling of patients attending a spinal outpatient clinic at a metropolitan hospital. English speaking adults (18–75 years) presenting to the clinic with low back pain and prior spinal imaging were considered for inclusion. Eligible patients were allocated to receive a GLITtER consultation or a standard consultation (as determined by appointment scheduling and clinician availability), and were blinded to their allocation. Full details of the GLITtER intervention are described in accordance with the Tidier template.Follow-up data were collected after 1 and 3 months. The primary outcome of this study was the fulfillment of specific feasibility criteria which were established a priori. Determination of a sample size for a definitive randomised controlled trial was a secondary objective. Results Two hundred seventy-six patients underwent preliminary screening and 31 patients met the final eligibility criteria for study inclusion. Seventeen participants were allocated to the intervention group and 14 were allocated to the control group. Three month follow-up data were available from 42% of the 31 enrolled participants (N = 13, six intervention, seven control). Feasibility indicators for consent, resource burden and acceptability of the GLITtER intervention were met, however participant recruitment was slower than anticipated and an acceptable follow-up rate was not achieved. Conclusions Failure to achieve pre-specified recruitment and follow-up rates were important outcomes of this feasibility study. We attribute failure to issues that are likely to be relevant for other clinical trials with this population. It is realistic to consider that these challenges can be overcome through careful strategy, ample funding and continued partnership with health care providers. Trial registration The trial was registered on the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry on 28/2/2017 (ACTRN12617000317392).
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Karran
- School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susan L Hillier
- School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Yun-Hom Yau
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - James H McAuley
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - G Lorimer Moseley
- School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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