Change in health status in long-term conditions over a one year period: a cohort survey using patient-reported outcome measures

The outcomes of considering goals of care in medication reviews for older adults: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

This is a systematic review of prescribing, clinical, patient-reported, and health utilization outcomes of goal-directed medication reviews in older adults.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS and CINAHL databases to identify studies examining outcomes of goal-directed medication reviews in humans, with mean/median age ≥ 60 years and in English.

RESULTS

Seventeen out of 743 articles identified were included. Whilst there were inconsistent findings regarding changes in the number of medications between groups or post-intervention in one group (n = 6 studies), studies found reductions in drug-related problems (n = 2) and potential to reduce anticholinergics and sedatives (n = 2). Two out of seven studies investigating clinical outcomes found improvements, such as reduced hospital readmissions and improved depression severity. One study found 75% of patients achieved ≥ 1 goals and another found 43% of goals were achieved at six months. Four out of five studies found significant improvements in patient-reported quality of life between groups (n = 2) or post-intervention in one group (n = 2). Both studies investigating cost-effectiveness reported the intervention was cost-effective.

CONCLUSIONS

There is evidence of positive impact on medication rationalization, quality of life and cost-effectiveness, supporting goal-directed medication reviews. Larger, longitudinal studies, exploring patient-focused outcomes may provide further insights into the ongoing impact of goal-directed medication reviews.

The implementation, use and impact of patient reported outcome measures in value-based healthcare programmes: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Value-Based Healthcare (VBHC) focuses on the value of patient outcomes and is achieved by ensuring resources already available are managed to realise the best possible individual and population health outcomes. Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) measure the impact of illnesses from the patient perspective. We conducted a scoping review to understand how PROMs were implemented and used, and their impact in the context of VBHC.

METHODS

Arksey and O'Malley's overarching framework supplemented by principles from mixed-methods Framework Synthesis were used. CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Google Scholar and reference lists were searched. An a priori data extraction framework was created using the review question and objectives as key domains against which to extract data. Mixed-methods data were organised, integrated and preserved in original format and reported for each domain.

RESULTS

Forty-three studies were included with 60,200 participants. Few studies reported a well-developed programme theory and we found little robust evidence of effect. PROMs were universally considered to have the potential to increase patient satisfaction with treatment and services, enhance patient awareness of symptoms and self-management, and improve health outcomes such as quality of life and global health status. Evidence is currently limited on how PROMs work and how best to optimally implement PROMs to achieve the target outcome. Implementation challenges commonly prevented the realisation of optimal outcomes and patients generally needed better and clearer communication about why PROMs were being given and how they could optimally be used to support their own self-management.

CONCLUSION

PROMSs have yet to demonstrate their full potential in a VBHC context. Optimal PROMs implementation is poorly understood by clinicians and patients. Future studies should explore different models of PROM implementation and use within VBHC programmes to understand what works best and why for each specific context, condition, and population.

Systems thinking and designerly tools for medical device design in engineering curricula

Background

In this paper we focus on medical device development (MDD) in Industrial Design Engineering (IDE) academia. We want to find which methods our MDD-students currently use, where our guidance has shortcomings and where it brings added value.

Methods

We have analysed 19 master and 3 doctoral MDD-theses in our IDE curriculum. The evaluation focusses around four main themes: 1) regulatory 2) testing 3) patient-centricity and 4) systemic design.

Results

Regulatory aspects and medical testing procedures seem to be disregarded frequently. We assume this is because of a lack of MDD experience and the small thesis timeframe. Furthermore, many students applied medical-oriented systemic tools, which enhances multiperspectivism. However, we found an important lack in the translation to the List of Specifications and to business models of these medical devices. Finally, students introduced various participatory techniques, but seem to struggle with implementing this in the setting of evidence-based medicine.

Prognostic factors associated with quality of life in heart failure patients considering the use of the generic EQ-5D-5L™ in primary care: new follow-up results of the observational RECODE-HF study

BACKGROUND

The implementation of care concepts fitting the needs of patients with chronic heart failure (HF) remains challenging. In this context, psycho-emotional well-being is not routinely assessed, and under-researched despite indications that it is of great relevance for, e.g., acceptance, adherence, and prognosis. The aim of this study was to observe clinical characteristics for their prognostic utility in HF patients, and to compare the patients' health-related quality of life (QoL) with German population norm values.

METHODS

The current post-hoc analysis was performed on data collected amongst participants of the RECODE-HF study who had fully answered the EQ-5D-5L™ items at both baseline and 12 months (n = 2354). The status in the patients' self-assessment items, EQ-5D visual analog scale (VAS) and EQ-5D index was categorized into worse/unchanged/improved. General linear mixed models (GLMM) with logit link were applied. Subgroups included 630 patients (26.8%) screened positive and 1724 patients (73.2%) screened negative for psychosocial distress (PSD).

RESULTS

The 12-months change in EQ-5D index, generally resulting from change in individual EQ-5D items, additionally associated not only with high NYHA class but sociodemographics (employment/living alone/GP practice years) (96.2% correctly classified in GLMM). The 12- months change in individual QoL aspects showed associations with age*NYHA, gender, body-mass index, and comorbidities dyslipidemia, myocardial infarction, asthma/chronic pulmonary disease. Important social roles were reflected in particular when HF patients lived alone or the doctor mentioned to the patient that the patient had HF. Patients with/without PSD differed in some sociodemographic and clinical parameters. However, no influence of PSD could be demonstrated in the 12-month follow-up of the EQ-5D-5L™. Nonetheless, comparison of the 12-months QoL with general German population norm values by age groups < 75 years and 75+ showed markedly health restrictions in HF patients in all EQ-5D-5L™ aspects.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis revealed different prognostic factors primarily associated with change of burden in different QoL aspects in HF patients. In GP practice it is important to consider in addition to the overall day-related VAS all the individual health-related QoL aspects to take a holistic view of the patient, as well as to pay particular attention to the interrelation of individual characteristics.

Self-reported quality of life following stroke: a systematic review of instruments with a focus on their psychometric properties

PURPOSE

To evaluate the psychometric properties of common health-related quality-of-life instruments used post stroke and provide recommendations for research and clinical use with this diagnostic group.

METHODS

A systematic review of the psychometric properties of the five most commonly used quality-of-life measurement tools (EQ-5D, SF-36, SF-6D, AQoL, SS-QOL) was conducted. Electronic searches were performed in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and EMBASE on November 27th 2019. Two authors screened papers against the inclusion criteria and where consensus was not reached, a third author was consulted. Included papers were appraised using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist and findings synthesized to make recommendations.

RESULTS

A total of n = 50,908 papers were screened and n = 45 papers reporting on 40 separate evaluations of psychometric properties met inclusion criteria (EQ-5D = 19, SF-36 = 16, SF-6D = 4, AQoL = 2, SS-QOL = 4). Studies reported varied psychometric quality of instruments, and results show that psychometric properties of quality-of-life instruments for the stroke population have not been well established. The strongest evidence was identified for the use of the EQ-5D as a quality-of-life assessment for adult stroke survivors.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic evaluation of the psychometric properties of self-reported quality-of-life instruments used with adults after stroke suggests that validity across tools should not be assumed. Clinicians and researchers alike may use findings to help identify the most valid and reliable measurement instrument for understanding the impact of stroke on patient-reported quality of life.

Psychometric properties of measures of upper limb activity performance in adults with and without spasticity undergoing neurorehabilitation-A systematic review

Introduction

This systematic review appraises the measurement quality of tools which assess activity and/or participation in adults with upper limb spasticity arising from neurological impairment, including methodological quality of the psychometric studies. Differences in the measurement quality of the tools for adults with a neurological impairment, but without upper limb spasticity, is also presented.

Methods

29 measurement tools identified in a published review were appraised in this systematic review. For each identified tool, we searched 3 databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL) to identify psychometric studies completed with neurorehabilitation samples. Methodological quality of instrument evaluations was assessed with use of the Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Status Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) checklist. Synthesis of ratings allowed an overall rating of the psychometric evidence for each measurement tool to be calculated.

Results

149 articles describing the development or evaluation of psychometric properties of 22 activity and/or participation measurement tools were included. Evidence specific to tool use for adults with spasticity was identified within only 15 of the 149 articles and provided evidence for 9 measurement tools only. Overall, COSMIN appraisal highlighted a lack of evidence of measurement quality. Synthesis of ratings demonstrated all measures had psychometric weaknesses or gaps in evidence (particularly for use of tools with adults with spasticity).

Conclusions

The systematic search, appraisal and synthesis revealed that currently there is insufficient measurement quality evidence to recommend one tool over another. Notwithstanding this conclusion, newer tools specifically designed for use with people with neurological conditions who have upper limb spasticity, have emergent measurement properties that warrant further research.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42014013190.

Overview of the socio-economic consequences of heart failure

Heart failure (HF) is a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The prevalence of HF increases, and in high-income countries, 1-2% of total healthcare expenditure is spent on HF. This article gives an overview on the impact of HF on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and the economic burden of HF. Those suffering from HF are associated with a substantial decrease of HRQoL compared to individuals with most other chronic diseases and to individuals without HF. Therapeutic approaches, which decrease risk factors and lead to an improvement of the clinical status of patients, have a positive effect on HRQoL of the patients. Hospitalization rates have been shown to be correlated with disease severity, mortality, and HRQoL. Inpatient treatments of HF patients are cost intensive and the most important component for the economic burden of HF, responsible for at least half of direct cost. Prevention strategies, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches should focus on avoiding need for hospitalizations, and in particular, readmissions. Outpatient care including medication represents the second largest cost component. The cost of HF varies from less than 1,000 USD per patient in low-income countries to between 5,000 and 15,000 EUR in Europe, and between 17,000 and 30,000 USD in the US. There is a lack of study results on indirect costs. All study results on the socio-economic burden of HF clearly underscore the public health relevance of HF, showing a large economic burden for healthcare systems all over the world and a considerable impact on patients' HRQoL. The results on HRQoL are relatively homogeneous, but there are large differences across countries in respect of the economic burden they have to bear. Despite the large number of studies on the socio-economic consequences of HF further research is necessary, especially on indirect cost and for low- and middle-income countries. Future studies would benefit from a greater standardization of methods and presentation of results.

Humanistic burden and economic impact of heart failure – a systematic review of the literature

Background: Heart failure (HF) is increasing in prevalence worldwide. This systematic review was conducted to inform understanding of its humanistic and economic burden. Methods: Electronic databases (Embase, MEDLINE®, and Cochrane Library) were searched in May 2017. Data were extracted from studies reporting health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in 200 patients or more (published 2007–2017), or costs and resource use in 100 patients or more (published 2012–2017). Relevant HRQoL studies were those that used the 12- or 36-item Short-Form Health Surveys, EuroQol Group 5-dimensions measure of health status, Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire or Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire. Results: In total, 124 studies were identified: 54 for HRQoL and 71 for costs and resource use (Europe: 25/15; North America: 24/50; rest of world/multinational: 5/6). Overall, individuals with HF reported worse HRQoL than the general population and patients with other chronic diseases. Some evidence identified supports a correlation between increasing disease severity and worse HRQoL. Patients with HF incurred higher costs and resource use than the general population and patients with other chronic conditions. Inpatient care and hospitalizations were identified as major cost drivers in HF. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that patients with HF experience worse HRQoL and incur higher costs than individuals without HF or patients with other chronic diseases. Early treatment of HF and careful disease management to slow progression and to limit the requirement for hospital admission are likely to reduce both the humanistic burden and economic impact of HF.

Measurement properties of preference-based measures for economic evaluation in COPD: a systematic review

PURPOSE

Preference-based measures can provide measurements of health-related quality of life and be utilized for cost-effectiveness analyses of interventions in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether generic preference-based measures are reliable, valid, and responsive in COPD.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using the Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) guidelines. Three databases were searched: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL. Studies were included if the sample represented individuals with COPD and the aim was to evaluate one or more psychometric properties or the interpretability of generic preference-based measures.

RESULTS

Six hundred and sixty-seven abstracts were screened, 65 full-text articles were reviewed and 24 articles met the inclusion criteria. Measures which emerged from the search were the EQ-5D, the SF-6D, the Quality of Well-being scale, the 15D, and the Health Utilities Index 3. Evidence for the test-retest reliability of these measures was limited. Construct validity of the measures was well supported with correlations with generic health profiles being 0.37-0.68, and correlations with COPD-specific health profiles being 0.53-0.75. Evidence for known-groups validity of these measures was poor and data on responsiveness were mixed.

CONCLUSION

Generic preference-based measures' sensitivity to change and ability to discriminate between different disease severities in COPD was poorly supported. Future research may consider examining the development of COPD-specific preference-based measures that may allow for a more accurate detection of change and discrimination among disease severities to facilitate cost-effectiveness evaluations.

Applied systems thinking: a viable approach to identify leverage points for accelerating progress towards ending neglected tropical diseases

BACKGROUND

Systems thinking is a conceptual approach that can assist stakeholders in understanding complexity and making progress on persistent public health challenges. Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), a complex global health problem, are responsible for a large disease burden among impoverished populations around the world. This aim of this study was to better discern the many complexities of the global NTD system in order to identify and act on leverage points to catalyse progress towards ending NTDs.

METHODS

Existing frameworks for systems change were adapted to form the conceptual framework for the study. Using a semi-structured interview guide, key informant interviews were conducted with NTD stakeholders at the global level and at the country level in Nigeria. The interview data were coded and analysed to create causal loop diagrams that resulted in a qualitative model of the global NTD system.

RESULTS

The complete qualitative model is discussed and presented visually as six separate sub-components that highlight key forces and feedback loops within the global NTD system.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified five leverage points for NTD system change, namely (1) clarify the potential for and assess realistic progress towards NTD elimination, (2) increase support for interventions besides drug delivery, (3) reduce dependency on international donors, (4) create a less insular culture within the global NTD community, and (5) systemically address the issue of health worker incentives. The specific findings for NTDs raise a number of uncomfortable questions that have not been addressed, at least in part, because it is easier to continue focusing on 'quick win' solutions. The study provides a model of a systems thinking approach that can be applied to other complex global health and development challenges in order to understand complexity and identify leverage points for system change.

Self-Management education for adults with poorly controlled epILEpsy [SMILE (UK)]: a randomised controlled trial

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.

The effectiveness of a group self-management education course for adults with poorly controlled epilepsy, SMILE (UK): A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions affecting about 1% of adults. Up to 40% of people with epilepsy (PWE) report recurring seizures while on medication. And optimal functioning requires good self-management. Our objective was to evaluate a group self-management education courses for people with epilepsy and drug-resistant seizures by means of a multicenter, pragmatic, parallel group, randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

We recruited adults with epilepsy, having ≥2 seizures in the prior 12 months, from specialist clinics. Consenting participants were randomized 1:1 to a group course or treatment as usual. The primary outcome measure was quality of life 12 months after randomization using Quality of Life 31-P (QOLIE-31-P). Secondary outcome measures were seizure frequency and recency, psychological distress, impact and stigma of epilepsy, self-mastery, medication adherence, and adverse effects. Analysis of outcomes followed the intention-to-treat principle using mixed-effects regression models.

RESULTS

We enrolled 404 participants (intervention: n = 205, control: n = 199) with 331 (82%) completing 12-month follow-up (intervention: n = 163, control: n = 168). Mean age was 41.7 years, ranging from 16 to 85, 54% were female and 75% were white. From the intervention arm, 73.7% attended all or some of the course. At 12-month follow-up, there were no statistically significant differences between trial arms in QOLIE-31-P (intervention mean: 67.4, standard deviation [SD]: 13.5; control mean: 69.5, SD 14.8) or in secondary outcome measures.

SIGNIFICANCE

This is the first pragmatic trial of group education for people with poorly controlled epilepsy. Recruitment, course attendance, and follow-up rates were higher than expected. The results show that the primary outcome and quality of life did not differ between the trial arms after 12 months. We found a high prevalence of felt-stigma and psychological distress in this group of people with drug-resistant seizures. To address this, social and psychological interventions require evaluation, and may be necessary before or alongside self-management-education courses.

The health impacts of energy performance investments in low-income areas: a mixed-methods approach

Background

Cold homes and fuel poverty contribute to health inequalities in ways that could be addressed through energy efficiency interventions.

Objectives

To determine the health and psychosocial impacts of energy performance investments in low-income areas, particularly hospital admissions for cardiorespiratory conditions, prevalence of respiratory symptoms and mental health status, hydrothermal conditions and household energy use, psychosocial outcomes, cost consequences to the health system and the cost utility of these investments.

Design

A mixed-methods study comprising data linkage (25,908 individuals living in 4968 intervention homes), a field study with a controlled pre-/post-test design (intervention,n = 418; control,n = 418), a controlled multilevel interrupted time series analysis of internal hydrothermal conditions (intervention,n = 48; control,n = 40) and a health economic assessment.

Setting

Low-income areas across Wales.

Participants

Residents who received energy efficiency measures through the intervention programme and matched control groups.

Main outcome measures

Primary outcomes – emergency hospital admissions for cardiorespiratory conditions, self-reported respiratory symptoms, mental health status, indoor air temperature and indoor relative humidity. Secondary outcomes – emergency hospital admissions for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-related cardiorespiratory conditions, excess winter admissions, health-related quality of life, subjective well-being, self-reported fuel poverty, financial stress and difficulties, food security, social interaction, thermal satisfaction and self-reported housing conditions.

Methods

Anonymously linked individual health records for emergency hospital admissions were analysed using mixed multilevel linear models. A quasi-experimental controlled field study used a multilevel repeated measures approach. Controlled multilevel interrupted time series analyses were conducted to estimate changes in internal hydrothermal conditions following the intervention. The economic evaluation comprised cost–consequence and cost–utility analyses.

Data sources

The Patient Episode Database for Wales 2005–14, intervention records from 28 local authorities and housing associations, and scheme managers who delivered the programme.

Results

The study found no evidence of changes in physical health. However, there were improvements in subjective well-being and a number of psychosocial outcomes. The household monitoring study found that the intervention raised indoor temperature and helped reduce energy use. No evidence was found of substantial increases in indoor humidity levels. The health economic assessment found no explicit cost reductions to the health service as a result of non-significant changes in emergency admissions for cardiorespiratory conditions.

Limitations

This was a non-randomised intervention study with household monitoring and field studies that relied on self-response. Data linkage focused on emergency admissions only.

Conclusion

Although there was no evidence that energy performance investments provide physical health benefits or reduce health service usage, there was evidence that they improve social and economic conditions that are conducive to better health and improved subjective well-being. The intervention has been successful in reducing energy use and improving the living conditions of households in low-income areas. The lack of association of emergency hospital admissions with energy performance investments means that we were unable to evidence cost saving to health-service providers.

Future work

Our research suggests the importance of incorporating evaluations with follow-up into intervention research from the start.

Funding

The National Institute for Health Research Public Health Research programme.

Effect of Prostate Cancer Severity on Functional Outcomes After Localized Treatment: Comparative Effectiveness Analysis of Surgery and Radiation Study Results

BACKGROUND

Whether prostate cancer severity modifies patient-reported functional outcomes after radical prostatectomy (RP) or external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for localized cancer is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine whether differences in predicted function over time between RP and EBRT varied by risk group.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

The Comparative Effectiveness Analysis of Surgery and Radiation (CEASAR) study is a prospective, population-based, observational study that enrolled men with localized prostate cancer in 2011-2012. Among 2117 CEASAR participants who underwent RP or EBRT, 817 had low-risk, 902 intermediate-risk, and 398 high-risk disease.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Patient-reported, disease-specific function was measured using the 26-item Expanded Prostate Index Composite (at baseline and 6, 12, and 36 mo). Predicted function was estimated using regression models and compared by disease risk.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Low-risk EBRT patients reported 3-yr sexual function scores 12 points higher than those of low-risk RP patients (RP, 39 points [95% confidence interval {CI}, 37-42] vs EBRT, 52 points [95% CI, 47-56]; p<0.001). The difference in 3-yr scores for high-risk patients was not clinically significant (RP, 32 points [95% CI, 28-35] vs EBRT, 38 points [95% CI, 33-42]; p=0.03). However, when using a commonly used binary definition of sexual function (erections firm enough for intercourse), no major differences were noted between RP and EBRT at 3 yr across low-, intermediate-, and high-risk disease strata. No clinically significant interactive effects between treatment and cancer severity were observed for incontinence, bowel, irritative voiding, and hormone domains. The primary limitation is the lack of firmly established thresholds for clinically significant differences in Expanded Prostate Index Composite domain scores.

CONCLUSIONS

For men with low-risk prostate cancer, EBRT was associated with higher sexual function scores at 3 yr than RP; however, for men with high-risk prostate cancer, no clinically significant difference was noted. Men with high-risk prostate cancer should be counseled that EBRT and RP carry similar sexual function outcomes at 3 yr.

PATIENT SUMMARY

In this report, we studied the urinary, sexual, bowel, and hormonal functions of patients 3 yr after undergoing prostate cancer surgery or radiation. We found that for patients with high-risk disease, sexual function was similar between surgery and radiation. We conclude that high-risk patients undergoing radiation therapy should be counseled that sexual function may not be as good as low-risk patients undergoing radiation.

Quality of life and burden of morbidity in primary care users with multimorbidity

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life, number of diseases and burden of morbidity of multimorbid primary care users and whether a simple disease count or a multimorbidity burden score is more predictive of quality of life.

Patients and methods

Primary care patients with at least 1 of 11 specified chronic conditions were invited to participate in a postal survey. Participants completed the Disease Burden Impact Scale (DBIS) questionnaire, the five dimension-five level Euro-Qol (EQ-5D-5L) and standard demographics questions. The DBIS asks participants to self-report chronic conditions and to rate the impact of each condition. Descriptive statistics and analysis of variance were used to determine quality of life, count of diseases and burden of morbidity. Multiple linear regression analyses determined whether disease count or the DBIS, adjusted for demographics, was more predictive of the EQ-5D-5L scores.

Results

Thirty-one percent (n=917) responded, from which 69 were excluded as they reported no or only one condition, leaving 848 (92%) in the analysis. Slightly more women (50.9%) participated; the mean age was 67.0 (SD 13.9) and the mean number of conditions was 6.5 (SD 3.49). The mean scores were: DBIS 15.5 (SD 12.00; score range 0–140, with higher scores indicating higher multimorbidity burden), EQ-5D-5L score 0.69 (SD 0.28; score range −0.28 [a state worse than death] to 1 [best possible health state]) and EQ-5D Visual Analog Scale (EQ-VAS) 65.44 (SD 23.66; score range 0–100 with higher scores meaning better health). The model using the DBIS score was more predictive of the EQ-5D-5L score and EQ-VAS than the model using the disease count (R²_adj=0.53 using DBIS and R²_adj=0.42 using disease count for EQ-5D-5L score, and R²_adj=0.44 using DBIS versus R²_adj=0.34 using disease count for EQ-VAS). All models were statistically significant (p<0.001).

Conclusion

The DBIS is a useful measure for assessing multimorbidity from the perspective of primary care users in particular, as it is more predictive of health outcomes than a simple count of conditions.

Long-Term Conditions Questionnaire (LTCQ): initial validation survey among primary care patients and social care recipients in England

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to validate a new generic patient-reported outcome measure, the Long-Term Conditions Questionnaire (LTCQ), among a diverse sample of health and social care users in England.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional validation survey. Data were collected through postal surveys (February 2016-January 2017). The sample included a healthcare cohort of patients recruited through primary care practices, and a social care cohort recruited through local government bodies that provide social care services.

PARTICIPANTS

1211 participants (24% confirmed social care recipients) took part in the study. Healthcare participants were recruited on the basis of having one of 11 specified long-term conditions (LTCs), and social care participants were recruited on the basis of receiving social care support for at least one LTC. The sample exhibited high multimorbidity, with 93% reporting two or more LTCs and 43% reporting a mental health condition.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The LTCQ's construct validity was tested with reference to the EQ-5D (5-level version), the Self-Efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease scale, an Activities of Daily Living scale and the Bayliss burden of morbidity scale.

RESULTS

Low levels of missing data for each item indicate acceptability of the LTCQ across the sample. The LTCQ exhibits high internal consistency (Cronbach's α=0.95) across the scale's 20 items and excellent test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.94, 95% CI 0.93 to 0.95). Associations between the LTCQ and all reference measures were moderate to strong and in the expected directions, indicating convergent construct validity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence for the reliability and validity of the LTCQ, which has potential for use in both health and social care settings. The LTCQ could meet a need for holistic outcome measurement that goes beyond symptoms and physical function, complementing existing measures to capture fully what it means to live well with LTCs.

Health-related quality of life in asthma patients - A comparison of two cohorts from 2005 and 2015

INTRODUCTION

The aim was to investigate temporal variation in Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL) and factors influencing low HRQL, in patients with asthma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Questionnaire data on patient characteristics and the mini-Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (mini-AQLQ) scores from two separate cohorts of randomly selected Swedish primary and secondary care asthma patients, in 2005 (n = 1034) and 2015 (n = 1126). Student's t-test and analysis of covariance with adjustment for confounders compared mini-AQLQ total and domain scores in 2005 and 2015. Multivariable linear regression analyzed associations with mini-AQLQ scores.

RESULTS

The mean Mini-AQLQ scores were unchanged between 2005 and 2015 (adjusted means (95% CI) 2005: 5.39 (5.27-5.33) and in 2015: 5.44 (95% CI 5.32 to 5.38), p = 0.26). Overweight (regression coefficient 95% CI) (0.21 (-0.36 to -0.07)), obesity (-0.34 (-0,50 to -0.18)), one or more exacerbations during the previous six months (-0.64 (-0.79 to -0.50)), self-rated moderate/severe disease (-1.02 (-1.15 to -0.89)), heart disease (-0.42 (-0.68 to -0.16)), anxiety/depression (-0.31 (-0.48 to -0.13)) and rhinitis (-0.25 (-0.42 to -0.08)) were associated with lower HRQL. Higher educational level (0.32 (0.19-0.46)) and self-reported knowledge of self-management of exacerbations (0.35 (0.19-0.51)) were associated with higher HRQL.

CONCLUSIONS

HRQL in Swedish patients with asthma is generally good and unchanged during the last decade. Overweight, obesity, exacerbations, self-rated moderate/severe disease, heart disease, depression/anxiety and rhinitis were associated with lower HRQL, and high educational level and knowledge on self-management with higher HRQL.

CHOICE: Choosing Health Options In Chronic Care Emergencies

Background

Over 70% of the health-care budget in England is spent on the care of people with long-term conditions (LTCs), and a major cost component is unscheduled health care. Psychological morbidity is high in people with LTCs and is associated with a range of adverse outcomes, including increased mortality, poorer physical health outcomes, increased health costs and service utilisation.

Objectives

The aim of this programme of research was to examine the relationship between psychological morbidity and use of unscheduled care in people with LTCs, and to develop a psychosocial intervention that would have the potential to reduce unscheduled care use. We focused largely on emergency hospital admissions (EHAs) and attendances at emergency departments (EDs).

Design

A three-phase mixed-methods study. Research methods included systematic reviews; a longitudinal prospective cohort study in primary care to identify people with LTCs at risk of EHA or ED admission; a replication study in primary care using routinely collected data; an exploratory and feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial in primary care; and qualitative studies to identify personal reasons for the use of unscheduled care and factors in routine consultations in primary care that may influence health-care use. People with lived experience of LTCs worked closely with the research team.

Setting

Primary care. Manchester and London.

Participants

People aged ≥ 18 years with at least one of four common LTCs: asthma, coronary heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes. Participants also included health-care staff.

Results

Evidence synthesis suggested that depression, but not anxiety, is a predictor of use of unscheduled care in patients with LTCs, and low-intensity complex interventions reduce unscheduled care use in people with asthma and COPD. The results of the prospective study were that depression, not having a partner and life stressors, in addition to prior use of unscheduled care, severity of illness and multimorbidity, were independent predictors of EHA and ED admission. Approximately half of the cost of health care for people with LTCs was accounted for by use of unscheduled care. The results of the replication study, carried out in London, broadly supported our findings for risk of ED attendances, but not EHAs. This was most likely due to low rates of detection of depression in general practitioner (GP) data sets. Qualitative work showed that patients were reluctant to use unscheduled care, deciding to do so when they perceived a serious and urgent need for care, and following previous experience that unscheduled care had successfully and unquestioningly met similar needs in the past. In general, emergency and primary care doctors did not regard unscheduled care as problematic. We found there are missed opportunities to identify and discuss psychosocial issues during routine consultations in primary care due to the ‘overmechanisation’ of routine health-care reviews. The feasibility trial examined two levels of an intervention for people with COPD: we tried to improve the way in which practices manage patients with COPD and developed a targeted psychosocial treatment for patients at risk of using unscheduled care. The former had low acceptability, whereas the latter had high acceptability. Exploratory health economic analyses suggested that the practice-level intervention would be unlikely to be cost-effective, limiting the value of detailed health economic modelling.

Limitations

The findings of this programme may not apply to all people with LTCs. It was conducted in an area of high social deprivation, which may limit the generalisability to more affluent areas. The response rate to the prospective longitudinal study was low. The feasibility trial focused solely on people with COPD.

Conclusions

Prior use of unscheduled care is the most powerful predictor of unscheduled care use in people with LTCs. However, psychosocial factors, particularly depression, are important additional predictors of use of unscheduled care in patients with LTCs, independent of severity and multimorbidity. Patients and health-care practitioners are unaware that psychosocial factors influence health-care use, and such factors are rarely acknowledged or addressed in consultations or discussions about use of unscheduled care. A targeted patient intervention for people with LTCs and comorbid depression has shown high levels of acceptability when delivered in a primary care context. An intervention at the level of the GP practice showed little evidence of acceptability or cost-effectiveness.

Future work

The potential benefits of case-finding for depression in patients with LTCs in primary care need to be evaluated, in addition to further evaluation of the targeted patient intervention.

Funding

The National Institute for Health Research Programme Grants for Applied Research programme.

Characteristics associated with quality of life among people with drug-resistant epilepsy

Quality of Life (QoL) is the preferred outcome in non-pharmacological trials, but there is little UK population evidence of QoL in epilepsy. In advance of evaluating an epilepsy self-management course we aimed to describe, among UK participants, what clinical and psycho-social characteristics are associated with QoL. We recruited 404 adults attending specialist clinics, with at least two seizures in the prior year and measured their self-reported seizure frequency, co-morbidity, psychological distress, social characteristics, including self-mastery and stigma, and epilepsy-specific QoL (QOLIE-31-P). Mean age was 42 years, 54% were female, and 75% white. Median time since diagnosis was 18 years, and 69% experienced ≥10 seizures in the prior year. Nearly half (46%) reported additional medical or psychiatric conditions, 54% reported current anxiety and 28% reported current depression symptoms at borderline or case level, with 63% reporting felt stigma. While a maximum QOLIE-31-P score is 100, participants’ mean score was 66, with a wide range (25–99). In order of large to small magnitude: depression, low self-mastery, anxiety, felt stigma, a history of medical and psychiatric comorbidity, low self-reported medication adherence, and greater seizure frequency were associated with low QOLIE-31-P scores. Despite specialist care, UK people with epilepsy and persistent seizures experience low QoL. If QoL is the main outcome in epilepsy trials, developing and evaluating ways to reduce psychological and social disadvantage are likely to be of primary importance. Educational courses may not change QoL, but be one component supporting self-management for people with long-term conditions, like epilepsy.

Health Status Trajectories Among Outpatients With Heart Failure

CONTEXT

Health status (i.e., symptoms, function, and quality of life) is an important palliative care outcome in patients with heart failure; however, patterns of health status over time (i.e., trajectories) are not well described.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to identify health status trajectories in outpatients with heart failure and assess whether depression, symptom burden, or sense of peace predict health status trajectory.

METHODS

This is an observational study utilizing data from the Patient-Centered Disease Management for Heart Failure trial. Participants completed Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaires at baseline, three, six, and 12 months. Latent class growth analysis identified health status trajectories; multinomial logistic regression models identified predictors of trajectory membership.

RESULTS

Patients (n = 384) were primarily men (97%) and older (mean age 67.6 ± 10.1). Three health status trajectories were identified. All three trajectories improved at three months; however, the marked improvement health status trajectory (n = 19) showed progressive improvement over one year, whereas the poor (n = 119) and moderate (n = 246) health status trajectories had little change after three months. In adjusted analyses, worse baseline depression (odds ratio 1.10; 95% confidence interval 1.01-1.20), symptom burden (1.45; 1.15-1.83), and sense of peace (0.41; 0.22-0.75) predicted membership in the poor vs. moderate health status trajectory.

CONCLUSION

We identified three one-year health status trajectories in patients with heart failure, with the two most common trajectories characterized by early improvement followed by limited change. Future research should assess these findings in nonveterans and women and explore whether treatment of depression, high symptom burden, and low sense of peace leads to improved long-term heart failure health status trajectory.

Change in health status in COPD: a seven-year follow-up cohort study

Health status is a prognostic factor included in the assessment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of our study was to examine the associations of clinical factors with change in health status over a 7-year follow-up period. In 2005, 970 randomly selected primary and secondary care patients with a COPD diagnosis completed questionnaires including the Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ); and in 2012, 413 completed the CCQ questionnaire again. Linear regression used difference in mean total CCQ score between 2005 and 2012 as the dependent variable. Independent variables were CCQ score at baseline 2005, sex, age, educational level, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, heart disease, diabetes, depression, number of exacerbations in the previous 6 months, dyspnoea (modified Medical Research Council (mMRC)). Health status worsened from mean total CCQ (s.d.) 2.03 (1.26) in 2005 to 2.16 (1.37) in 2012 (P=0.011). In linear regression with adjustment for baseline CCQ; older age, lower education, higher mMRC and BMI below 25 kg/m2 at baseline were associated with worsened health status in 2012. When sex, age and all statistically significant measures were included simultaneously in the analysis of the main study group, higher mMRC and BMI below 25 kg/m2 were were associated with deteriorated health status (P<0.0001). A higher level of dyspnoea and lower weight were associated with worse health status in COPD. Strategies for decreasing dyspnoea and awareness of the possible increased risk of worsening disease in under- and normal-weight COPD patients are clinically important.

Cross-sectional survey in CKD patients across Europe describing the association between quality of life and anaemia

BACKGROUND

Deteriorating renal function in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients is commonly associated with reduced haemoglobin levels, adding to the already considerable humanistic burden of CKD. This analysis evaluated the impact of anaemia on disease burden in patients with CKD stages 3-4, and in those on dialysis.

METHODS

This was a descriptive, cross-sectional analysis of European data from an Adelphi CKD Disease-Specific Programme. This programme collected data from patients and their treating nephrologists/endocrinologists; patient- and physician-reported data were matched for each patient. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) data were obtained through patient completion of the EQ-5D, SF-12 and KDQOL-36. Additional information was obtained via physician reporting of patient symptoms, and patients' reports of impaired activity. Anaemia was defined by haemoglobin level and/or current use of erythropoiesis stimulating agents.

RESULTS

Significant, but modest Spearman's rank correlations were observed between haemoglobin levels and extent of HRQoL impairment, regardless of instrument used (range 0.19-0.23; all P-values < 0.0001). When stratified by anaemia status, impairment was consistently lower for anaemic than non-anaemic CKD patients across measurement scales (e.g. EQ-5D index value [standard deviation {SD}] 0.72 [0.31] vs 0.83 [0.23], respectively; P < 0.0001). Physician-reported patient tiredness was associated with increased disease burden at all levels of CKD studied (total EQ-5D index value [SD] in patients reporting no tiredness vs tiredness 0.81 [0.26] vs 0.70 [0.30] respectively; P < 0.0001) with P < 0.0001 for no tiredness vs tiredness at all stages of CKD. The presence of anaemia was associated with impaired activity levels at CKD stages 3 (37.5 % vs 28.4 %, respectively; P = 0.0044) and 4 (48.1 % vs 39.9 %, respectively; P = 0.0292), and in patients on dialysis (52.0 % vs 45.0 %, respectively; P = 0.0732).

CONCLUSIONS

The analysis found that CKD patients with anaemia typically had a lower HRQoL than those without anaemia. The impairment correlated with anaemia was more apparent in non-dialysis patients with CKD stages 3 or 4 than in those receiving dialysis. Coexisting CKD and anaemia may have an impact on patient HRQoL similar to other chronic conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy or certain forms of cancer.

Framework and guidance for implementing patient-reported outcomes in clinical practice: evidence, challenges and opportunities

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are reports of the status of a patient's health condition that come directly from the patient. While PRO measures are a well-developed technology with robust standards in research, their use for informing healthcare decisions is still poorly understood. We review relevant examples of their application in the provision of healthcare and examine the challenges associated with implementing PROs in clinical settings. We evaluate evidence for their use and examine barriers to their uptake, and present an evidence-based framework for the successful implementation of PROs in clinical practice. We discuss current and future developments for the use of PROs in clinical practice, such as individualized measurement and computer-adaptive testing.

Selecting relevant and feasible measurement instruments for the revised Dutch clinical practice guideline for physical therapy in patients after stroke

PURPOSE

To select relevant and feasible instruments for the revision of the Dutch clinical practice guideline for physical therapy in patients with stroke.

METHODS

In this implementation study a comprehensive proposal for ICF categories and matching instruments was developed, based on reliability and validity. Relevant instruments were then selected in a consensus round by 11 knowledge brokers who were responsible for the implementation of the selected instruments. The feasibility of the selected instruments was tested by 36 physical therapists at different work settings within stroke services. Finally, instruments that were deemed relevant and feasible were included in the revised guideline.

RESULTS

A total of 28 instruments were recommended for inclusion in the revised guideline. Nineteen instruments were retained from the previous guideline. Ten new instruments were tested in clinical practice, seven of which were found feasible. Two more instruments were added after critical appraisal of the set of the measurement instruments.

CONCLUSIONS

The revised guideline contains 28 relevant and feasible instrument selected and tested in clinical practice by physical therapists. Further education and implementation is needed to integrate instruments in clinical practice. Further research is proposed for developing and implementing a core set of measurement instruments to be used at fixed time points to establish data registries that allow for continuous improvement of rehabilitation for stroke patients. Implications for Rehabilitation The revised Dutch Stroke Physical Therapy Guideline recommends a total of 28 instruments, that are relevant and feasible for clinical practice of physical therapist in the different settings of stroke rehabilitation. The selection of instrument in daily practice should be part of the clinical reasoning process of PTs and be tailored to individual patients' needs and the degree of priority of the affected ICF category. Suggested education strategies for further integration of instruments in of the daily practice of PTs in Stroke Rehabilitation are: 'Training on the job' and 'peer assessment in clinical situations'.

Challenges, solutions and future directions in the evaluation of service innovations in health care and public health

Evaluating service innovations in health care and public health requires flexibility, collaboration and pragmatism; this collection identifies robust, innovative and mixed methods to inform such evaluations.

Perspectives from health, social care and policy stakeholders on the value of a single self-report outcome measure across long-term conditions: a qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

To explore the views of a range of stakeholders regarding whether patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) can be developed to measure key attributes of long-term conditions (LTCs) care in England, and the potential value of a single generic measure.

DESIGN

Qualitative semistructured interview study, analysed using a framework approach.

PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING

Interviews with 31 stakeholders from primary care, secondary care, social care, policy and patient-focused voluntary organisations in England.

RESULTS

There was broad support for a single PROM that could be used to measure outcomes for patients with any LTCs in any health or social care setting. Interviewees identified three desired uses for a PROM: to improve the quality of individual care; to increase people's engagement in their own care; and to monitor the performance of services. Interviewees felt that a PROM for LTCs should incorporate a mixture of traditional and non-traditional domains, such as functioning, empowerment and social participation, and be codesigned with patients and professional end-users. Stakeholders emphasised the need for a PROM to be feasible for practical implementation at the individual clinical level as a first priority. A number of concerns and potential problems were identified in relation to the application and interpretation of an LTC PROM.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has demonstrated support for a single self-report outcome measure that reflects the priorities of people with LTCs, if such a measure can be shown to be meaningful and useful at the individual level. People with LTCs and professional end-users in health and social care should be involved in the development and evaluation of such a measure.