Health Care Delivery System Research Articles

Abstract 4138433: Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics, and Outcomes in Heart Failure with Improved Ejection Fraction by Chronological Age

Background: HF incidence increases with age. Modern treatments have led to more patients recovering LVEF, classified as HF with improved ejection fraction (HFimpEF). However, the age-related epidemiology and prognosis of HFimpEF remain unclear. Hypothesis: Compared to younger patients, older patients will have lower rates of HFimpEF after incident HFrEF and higher rates of HF-related morbidity and mortality. Aims: To describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes in HFimpEF across the age spectrum within a healthcare delivery system in the US. Methods: We identified adults ≥18 years with incident HFrEF (LVEF≤40%) between 2013-2018 within Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC), a healthcare system serving 4.5 million members. HFimpEF was defined as baseline LVEF <40% with subsequent >10% improvement to >40%. HFimpEF incidence was assessed by baseline age categories (<50, 50-64, 65-79, ≥80 years [yrs]). Rates of worsening HF (WHF) events (i.e. HF-related hospitalization, ED, or outpatient visits) were compared between HFimpEF and persistent HFrEF patients across age using Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for sex and EF at the time of incident HFrEF, including potential interaction by age modeled continuously (cubic splines with 3 knots). Data: Among 12,639 adults with incident HFrEF, 33% experienced HFimpEF, with lower rates at older ages: 42% (<50 yrs), 41% (50-64 yrs), 35% (65-79 yrs) and 18% (≥80 yrs). Among patients with HFimpEF alive at 1-year post-HFrEF (N=9954), WHF incidence (per 100 p-y) remained high (10.7) in younger (<50 yrs) patients and increased by age: 14.5 (50-64 yrs), 21.6 (65-79 yrs), and 33.7 (≥80 yrs)(P <0.001 for trend; Figure, Panel A). Patients with HFimpEF, compared to those with persistent HFrEF, had lower adjusted rates of WHF across the spectrum of age (pinteraction by age < 0.001; Figure, Panel B). Conclusion: HFimpEF is common within a year of incident HFrEF, more prevalent in younger patients, and is associated with significant residual clinical risk. Compared to persistent HFrEF, improvements in LVEF are associated with a lower risk of WHF or death. Additional research is needed to understand HF symptom burden and medical therapy use in this population.

Abstract 4133161: Variation in Prevalence, Treatment, and Outcomes in Heart Failure with Improved Ejection Fraction by Race and Ethnicity

Background: Racial and ethnic disparities exist in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), but little is known about how race and ethnicity relate to patients with HF with improved EF (HFimpEF). Research Question: Do the epidemiology, treatment, and outcomes vary by race and ethnicity in patients with HFimpEF? Aim: To describe the relationship between race and ethnicity and HFimpEF within a large, integrated health care delivery system. Methods: We identified adults aged ≥18 years with incident HFrEF (LVEF≤40%) from 2013-2018 within Kaiser Permanente Northern California. HFimpEF was defined as LVEF>40% within 12 months after incident HFrEF. Self-reported race and ethnicity were classified as non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, Asian American/Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI), Hispanic, and other. Incidence rates of worsening HF (WHF) events (i.e., HF hospitalization, ED visit, or urgent outpatient WHF visits) or all-cause death were compared across patients with HFimpEF and persistent HFrEF using Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for age, sex, and LVEF at incident HFrEF, stratified by race and ethnicity. Results: Among 12,639 adults with incident HFrEF, 7,562 (59.8%) were White, 1,481 (11.7%) were AANHPI, 1,385 (11.0%) were Black, and 1,537 (12.2%) identified as Hispanic. Rates of HFimpEF following incident HFrEF was lowest among Black patients (26%), but similar among other race and ethnicities (36%, 34%, 30%, and 30% for AANHPI, White, Hispanic, and other, respectively, chi-squared p<0.01). Medication use was similar across groups at time of HFimpEF, but generally declined thereafter (Panel A) . Among patients with HFimpEF, Black and Hispanic patients had significantly higher crude rates of WHF or death compared to White patients (34 and 30 compared to 23 per 100 person-years, p<0.01 for each). Despite these differences in absolute rates, relative associations between HFimpEF (vs. persistent HFrEF) and WHF or death remained similar across all race and ethnicities (AANHPI: aHR=0.52 [95%CI 0.42-0.65], Black: aHR=0.70 [95%CI 0.56-0.87], Hispanic: aHR=0.60 [95%CI 0.49-0.73], White: aHR=0.53 [95%CI 0.48-0.58], p interaction =0.13) (Panel B) . Conclusions: HFimpEF is common within 12 months after incident HFrEF, and HF medication adherence declines in the years following. HFimpEF is associated with improved clinical outcomes across race and ethnicity, but occurs less frequently in Black patients despite similar HF medical therapy use.

Infectious Disease Modeling

Infectious diseases pose a persistent challenge to public health worldwide. Recent global health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and Ebola outbreaks, have underscored the vital role of infectious disease modeling in guiding public health policy and response. Infectious disease modeling is a critical tool for society, informing risk mitigation measures, prompting timely interventions, and aiding preparedness for healthcare delivery systems. This article synthesizes the current landscape of infectious disease modeling, emphasizing the integration of statistical methods in understanding and predicting the spread of infectious diseases. We begin by examining the historical context and the foundational models that have shaped the field, such as the SIR (susceptible, infectious, recovered) and SEIR (susceptible, exposed, infectious, recovered) models. Subsequently, we delve into the methodological innovations that have arisen, including stochastic modeling, network-based approaches, and the use of big data analytics. We also explore the integration of machine learning techniques in enhancing model accuracy and responsiveness. The review identifies the challenges of parameter estimation, model validation, and the incorporation of real-time data streams. Moreover, we discuss the ethical implications of modeling, such as privacy concerns and the communication of risk. The article concludes by discussing future directions for research, highlighting the need for data integration and interdisciplinary collaboration for advancing infectious disease modeling.

A case study on COVID-19 infected patient’s experience - challenging journey at Colombo East Base Hospital- Mulleriyawa

This study investigates the patient experience within the COVID-19 treatment centre at Colombo East Base Hospital, Mulleriyawa, amidst the global pandemic. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted over one month, involving 30 participants recruited through convenience sampling. Participants completed self-administered questionnaires assessing various aspects of care, including staff interaction, cleanliness, health education, counselling, and attention to health-related matters. Results indicate high levels of satisfaction among participants across multiple care domains, with the majority expressing satisfaction with staff interaction, cleanliness, health education, counselling, and attention to health-related matters. These findings underscore the healthcare delivery system's effectiveness in meeting patients' diverse needs and expectations during the pandemic. The study highlights the importance of patient-centred care in promoting positive patient experiences and outcomes, particularly in the context of public health emergencies. Recommendations include sustaining and enhancing best practices in healthcare delivery, prioritizing infection prevention and control measures, and promoting effective communication and patient education. By prioritizing patient-centred care and continuous quality improvement initiatives, healthcare providers can ensure the safety, satisfaction, and well-being of patients amidst crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Biomedical Engineering Literature: Advanced Reading Skills for Research and Practice

Medical engineering is a field of study that combines biological and medical sciences with engineering to develop improved healthcare technologies. It is imperative that you possess a deep understanding of both the material and the technical language used in this rapidly advancing field in order to effectively grasp key topics and navigate the rapidly expanding literature. This paper examines the future of the biomedical engineering profession through the lens of advanced reading strategies. It starts with the assertion that biomedical engineering literature presents three challenges: the level of density is technical, the area is interdisciplinary, and the growth of knowledge is exponential. In the view of the above challenges, the paper discusses various advanced reading skills in relation to biomedical engineers. These skills include the ability to critically read scientific texts, both at a fast pace for an overview and in detail for deeper understanding, to identify key ideas and methodologies relevant to the field, and to assess the validity of scientific claims and data representations. The paper also aims at pointing out how separate elements like the use of systematic reviews, of meta-analysis, of data visualization tools that complement reading, help the researcher in the process of managing gathered information from various sources. This paper describes teaching these skills for both academic and professional practice, with examples of how improved reading competencies can enhance research quality and contribute to innovations in medical technologies, tissue engineering, and clinical trials. Furthermore, the paper aims to discuss the future trends due to the increasing incorporation of continuous learning for addressing the challenges posed by novel technologies including artificial intelligence and nanotechnology that define the future of biomedical engineering. biomedical engineering students require the acquisition of higher order reading skills in preparation for information reading: national and international publications in the engineering profession, policy and technology in support of health care delivery systems, product development, and other purposes. The ideas stated and demonstrated in this paper should be practical to both beginning scholars and veteran professionals in the biomedical engineering field as well as useful for seminar and workshop participants in seminars and workshops on biomedical engineering literature.

Examining Whether Patient Portal and Video Visit Use Differs by Race and Ethnicity Among Older Adults in a US Integrated Health Care Delivery System: Cross-Sectional Electronic Health Record and Survey-Based Study.

Health care systems are increasingly encouraging patients to use patient portals and participate in video visits. However, there is limited information about how portal use differs among older adults. This study aimed to understand how patient portal and video visit use differed by age, race, and ethnicity among older adult patients with access to the same digital health resources. This cross-sectional study used electronic health record and survey data for adults aged 65 to 85 years who were members of a large Northern California health care delivery system throughout 2019 and 2020. The electronic health record cohort (N=471,152) included 320,686 White, 35,892 Black, 44,922 Latino, 20,786 Chinese, 28,732 Filipino, 8473 South Asian, 6716 Japanese, 2930 Vietnamese, and 2015 Korean adults. Racial and ethnic group and age group (65 to 75 years vs 76 to 85 years) differences in having a patient portal account by December 2020, the performance of 2 portal activities (sending ≥1 message to a clinician in 2019 or 2020 and viewing ≥1 laboratory test result in 2020), and having ≥1 video visit during 2020 were examined. Modified log-Poisson regression was used to examine prevalence ratios for portal and video visit use, comparing racial and ethnic groups to White adults and Asian ethnic groups to Chinese adults after adjusting for sex and age. Data from a 2020 member survey were used to compare internet use factors among 2867 White, 306 Black, 343 Latino, 225 Chinese, and 242 Filipino adults. Black, Latino, and Filipino adults were less likely to have a patient portal account than White adults, and Filipino adults were less likely to have a patient portal account than Chinese adults. Black, Latino, Filipino, Korean, Vietnamese, and South Asian adults were less likely to have sent messages and viewed test results than White adults, while Chinese and Japanese adults' use of these features was similar to that of White adults. Filipino, Vietnamese, and Korean adults were less likely to have performed the aforementioned activities than Chinese adults. Video visit use was lower among Black and Latino adults and higher among Chinese and South Asian adults compared with White adults (aged 76 to 85 years) and lower among Filipino, Korean, and Vietnamese adults compared to Chinese adults. Survey data suggested that underlying differences in internet use may partially explain the lower use of messaging by Black, Latino, and Filipino adults compared with White and Chinese adults. Patient portal and video visit use differed by race, ethnicity, and age group among older adult patients with access to the same patient portal. Internet use factors may contribute to these differences. Differences in patient portal and video visit use across Asian subgroups underscore the importance of disaggregating use data by Asian ethnicity.

Perceptual filters: Exploring disability and ableism’s cognitive framework

ABSTRACT Ableism, akin to other forms of discrimination such as sexism and racism, is increasingly recognized as a pervasive societal concern directed towards individuals with disabilities. This scholarly inquiry delineates the operational definition, manifestations, and ramifications of ableism, with a specific focus on its manifestations within healthcare settings. It underscores the critical need for targeted interventions aimed at mitigating biases among healthcare professionals and promoting inclusivity within healthcare delivery systems. Utilizing insights from cognitive psychology, the study conceptualizes ableism as a cognitive distortion, explicating the mechanisms through which biases shape perceptions and recommending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a promising intervention modality. The paper advocates for exploration of intersectional analyses, utilization of qualitative research methodologies, and cultivation of collaborative partnerships with disability advocacy organizations to develop more comprehensive intervention approaches. Noteworthy limitations of the current discourse include the potential for tokenistic representations and the imperative for genuine and substantive engagement with the voices and experiences of individuals with disabilities.

From the Clinic to the Polls: Why Voting Matters for Latino Medical Professionals

There is a well-established connection between voting and health as referenced by the American Medical Association (American Medical Association n.d.). However, the Latino electorate continues to face suppression, a challenge that also affects Latino medical professionals and students. Latino medical professionals are a critical part of the healthcare delivery system, often serving patients who share their ethnicity (Hutchinson, Davis, & Mulligan, 2010). Latino medical professionals play a crucial role in representing the needs of the Latino community, not only in healthcare delivery but also in shaping policy decisions that impact the health of their communities. In this article, the authors highlight the persistent barriers to voting faced by Latino medical professionals and their impacts on community health. The authors offer tangible solutions, which aim to reduce voting barriers and promote civic health within the Latino medical community, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding policies that provide time off to vote.

Utilization of big data analytics to identify population health trends and optimize healthcare delivery system efficiency

Big data analytics has emerged as an incredibly valuable tool in understanding population health trends and improving the effectiveness of healthcare delivery systems. By leveraging big data sources from various domains, including the patients’ electronic health records, claims data, wearables, and social media accounts, healthcare organizations can obtain novel and rich insights regarding population health characteristics, predisposing factors, and disease progression. The arrival of big data has transformed healthcare organizations by providing a scientific population health management and health system enhancement tool. Using superior analytical tools, healthcare entrepreneurs and policymakers can discover relations, rates, and patterns that are concealed in large data sets. Such knowledge can be used for early detection of possible interventions, management of resources, and prevention measures, thus leading to better health and less spending on health issues. Moreover, big data analytics helps in early diagnostics and the development of management strategies for high-risk groups, which in turn improves the functioning and effectiveness of healthcare systems. It is also important to note that big data solutions in healthcare are not limited to population health management, but also include functional aspects of healthcare organizations. Additionally, using data about patient movements, resource consumption, and clinical activity, it is possible to determine inefficiencies and opportunities to improve processes in healthcare organizations. This approach of collecting and analyzing data helps in decision making thus reducing time and improving patient flow and experience. However, incorporating real-time data into the clinical decision support systems can improve diagnostic capabilities, treatments offered, and patient tracking resulting in improved quality of services delivered.

A Tailored Postpartum eHealth Physical Activity Intervention for Individuals at High Risk of Postpartum Depression-the POstpartum Wellness Study (POW): Protocol and Data Overview for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is associated with significant health consequences for the parent and child. Current recommendations for PPD prevention require intense health care system resources. Evidence-based interventions for PPD prevention that do not further burden the health care system are needed. Evidence suggests that physical activity (PA) can generally reduce depressive symptoms. Technology-based interventions may help decrease common barriers to PA. This study aims to report the protocol and provide a data overview of the POstpartum Wellness study (POW)-an effectiveness trial evaluating whether an eHealth PA intervention tailored for postpartum individuals increased PA and decreased depressive symptoms among individuals at high PPD risk. This remote parallel-group randomized controlled trial included postpartum individuals with a history of depression or at least moderate current depressive symptoms not meeting the PPD diagnostic threshold and with low PA levels from an integrated health care delivery system. Participants were randomized to an eHealth PA intervention or usual care. The intervention group received access to a library of web-based workout videos designed for postpartum individuals, which included interaction with their infants. At baseline and follow-up (3 and 6 months), PA was measured using questionnaires and a wrist-worn accelerometer. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ-8). Data were collected to assess exploratory outcomes of sleep, perceived stress, anxiety, parent-infant bonding, and infant development. The study was funded in January 2020. Participants were enrolled via REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) or telephonically between November 2020 and September 2022; data collection ended in April 2023. Randomized participants (N=99) were 4 months post partum at baseline with moderately severe depressive symptoms (mean PHQ-8 score 12.6, SD 2.2). Intervention (n=50) and usual care (n=49) groups had similar sociodemographic characteristics, months post partum, baseline depressive symptoms, number of children at home, and prepregnancy PA levels. Retention in assessments was ≥66% for questionnaires and ≥48% for accelerometry, with modest differences by group. At 3-month follow-up, 73 of 99 (74%) participants (intervention: 35/50, 70%; usual care: 38/49, 78%) completed questionnaires; 53 of 99 (54%) wore the accelerometer for 7 days (27 of 50 (54%) intervention, 26 of 49 (53%) usual care). At 6-month follow-up, 66 of 99 (67%) participants (30 of 50 (60%) intervention, 36 of 49 (73%) usual care) completed questionnaires and 43 of 99 (43%) wore the accelerometer for 7 days (21 of 50 (42%) intervention, 22 of 49 (45%) usual care). Data analysis is completed, and a manuscript with these findings is currently under review for publication. The POW trial evaluates the effectiveness of an eHealth PA intervention for improving depressive symptoms and increasing PA among postpartum individuals at high PPD risk. Results have implications for the design and delivery of behavioral interventions among vulnerable patients. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04414696; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04414696. DERR1-10.2196/56882.

Epidemiology, clinical characterization, and outcomes for heart failure with improved ejection fraction

Abstract Background Contemporary guidelines propose a new classification of heart failure with improved ejection fraction (HFimpEF). The prevalence of HFimpEF is expected to increase with the implementation of guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT); however, there are limited data on the epidemiology of and outcomes for this novel clinical entity. Purpose We describe the prevalence, GDMT use and outcomes among patients with HFimpEF within a large, integrated healthcare delivery system. Methods We identified adults ≥18 years with incident HF with reduced EF (HFrEF ≤40%) between January 2013 and December 2018 from a large, integrated healthcare system serving >4.5 million members. HFimpEF was defined as known HFrEF with a follow-up EF measurement >40% within 12 months after incident HFrEF. Among HFimpEF patients, we examined GDMT use at discharge after incident HFrEF, incident HFimpEF, and at 6- and 12-months post-HFimpEF. From 12 months post initial HFrEF diagnosis, we calculated incidence rates of subsequent worsening HF (WHF) events (i.e., HF-related hospitalization, emergency department or urgent outpatient visits adjudicated using validated natural language processing-based algorithms) and all-cause death through December 31, 2019. We compared rates between patients with HFimpEF and those with persistent HFrEF (i.e., having all LVEF measurements within 12 months of incident HFrEF ≤40%) using Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for the EF value at incident HFrEF. Results Among 12,639 patients with incident HFrEF, 4,124 (33%) experienced HFimpEF within 12 months. Among patients with HFimpEF, use of β-blockers (82%) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin II receptor blockers (86%) was high, while angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (1.2%) or mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (28.2%) use was low. β-blockers, ACEi/ARB, and MRA use declined after incident HFimpEF (Figure, Panel A). Rates of WHF were 19.7 (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 18.7 to 20.6) per 100 person-years among patients with HFimpEF vs. 40.0 (95% CI: 38.5 to 41.5) among patients with persistent HFrEF (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.49 to 0.62; Figure, Panel B). Rates of death were 5.2 (95% CI: 4.7 to 5.7) and 8.4 (95% CI: 7.8 to 9.1) per 100 person-years among HFimpEF and persistent HFrEF, respectively (HR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.52 to 0.67). Among patients with HFimpEF, those with an absolute EF improvement of ≥20% were less likely to experience WHF (HR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.67 to 0.99) and death (HR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.69 to 1.04) compared with those with <20% improvement. Conclusions One in three patients experienced improvement in EF within 12 months of initial HFrEF diagnosis. HFimpEF is associated with a reduced risk of WHF events and death, although these patients remain at significant clinical risk. Further research is necessary to assess the potential impact of sustained adherence to GDMT and therapeutic optimization on HFimpEF patient outcomes.

From Code to Care: The Impact of Software Engineering and QA on Healthcare Delivery Systems

The rapid digitalization of healthcare has led to an unprecedented reliance on software systems to improve patient care, streamline operations, and ensure regulatory compliance. This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the critical role that software engineering and quality assurance (QA) play in three key areas of modern healthcare: Electronic Health Records (EHRs), telemedicine platforms, and medical device software. Through an examination of current practices, challenges, and case studies, we demonstrate how robust software engineering methodologies and rigorous QA processes contribute to the development of reliable, secure, and efficient healthcare applications. Our findings highlight the importance of data integrity, interoperability, user experience, and regulatory compliance in healthcare software development. Furthermore, we explore emerging trends such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), discussing their implications for future software engineering and QA practices in healthcare. This article provides valuable insights for healthcare organizations, software developers, and policymakers, offering recommendations to enhance the quality and safety of software-driven healthcare solutions.

Hepatitis B viral infection and its common genotype circulation: A molecular approach

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the causes of liver infection and associated with cirrhosis, carcinoma, and fibrosis of liver. In this research study, we conducted an observational study to evaluate the distribution of HBV infection and its genotypes in selected cities of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 426 samples were collected from selected cities of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Mardan (n = 163), Dir (Lower) (n = 116), Malakand (n = 53), Miran Shah (n = 29), Dera Ismail Khan (n = 28), Swat (n = 22), and Hangu (n = 15). For molecular identification of hepatitis B virus infection, the ICT (Immunochromatographic techniques) kits were used for the Screening of Hepatitis B virus infection among general population. The positive samples of ICT test were further subjected to Real-time Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), of which 282 (66.2 %) were males, and 144 (33.8 %) were females. Out of 426 ICT kit positive samples, 218 (51.18 %) were found PCR positive. The maximum number of positive cases, 157 (36.86 %), was found between 15 and 34 years. Sixty samples were further processed for HBV genotyping. A mixed genotype was detected in 29 (48.3 %) individuals, followed by genotype D in 23 (38.3 %) and untypable in 8 (13.3 %). The positivity rate of HBV was recorded high among males compared to females. Most patients who reported positive for HBV were co-infected with two genotypes. This research will help to provide background information to government and health authorities to raise public awareness and improve the capacity of the healthcare delivery system for hepatitis B virus infection.

Risk of Infection in Older Adults With Type 2 Diabetes With Relaxed Glycemic Control.

To compare the risk of hospitalization for infection among patients who achieve intensive versus relaxed glycemic control. This retrospective cohort study included adults age ≥65 years with type 2 diabetes from an integrated health care delivery system. Negative binomial models were used to estimate incidence rates and relative risk (RR) of hospitalization for infections (respiratory; genitourinary; skin, soft tissue, and bone; and sepsis), comparing two levels of relaxed (hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c] 7% to <8% and 8% to <9%) with intensive (HbA1c 6% to <7%) glycemic control from 1 January 2019 to 1 March 2020. Among 103,242 older patients (48.5% with HbA1c 6% to <7%, 35.3% with HbA1c 7% to <8%, and 16.1% with HbA1c 8% to <9%), the rate of hospitalization for infections was 51.3 per 1,000 person-years. Compared with HbA1c 6% to <7%, unadjusted risk of hospitalization for infections was significantly elevated among patients with HbA1c 8% to <9% (RR 1.25; 95% CI 1.13, 1.39) but not among patients with HbA1c 7% to <8% (RR 0.99; 95% CI 0.91, 1.08), and the difference became nonsignificant after adjustment. Across categories of infections, the adjusted RR of hospitalization was significantly higher among patients with HbA1c 8% to <9% only for skin, soft tissue, and bone infection (RR 1.33; 95% CI 1.05, 1.69). Older patients with type 2 diabetes who achieve relaxed glycemic control levels endorsed by clinical guidelines are not at significantly increased risk of hospitalization for most infections, but HbA1c 8% to <9% is associated with an increased risk of hospitalization for skin, soft tissue, and bone infections.

Identifying and addressing health-related social needs: a Medicaid member perspective.

Multiple state and national health care organizations have invested in activities to screen for and address the health-related social needs (HRSNs) of their patients. However, patient perspectives concerning HRSN screening discussions and facilitated referrals to supports are largely unexplored. The main objectives of this study were to explore the ways in which Massachusetts Medicaid (MassHealth) members engage with their health care clinicians to discuss HRSNs, to identify common needs discussed, and to describe whether members feel these needs are being addressed by health care clinicians and staff. The study team performed a cross-sectional, qualitative research study that included in-depth, open-ended interviews with 44 adult MassHealth members. Interviews were conducted between June and October 2022. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and systematically coded for analysis, and common themes were reported. The data collected for this study were part of a larger independent evaluation of MassHealth's 2017-2022 Section 1115 Demonstration that granted authority from CMS to implement health care delivery system reforms in Massachusetts. In this qualitative study of Medicaid members, some reportedly felt comfortable freely discussing all of their clinical and social needs with their health care clinicians, while others noted feelings of apprehension. Several members recalled being asked about their HRSNs in various clinical or community settings, while others did not. The majority of members endorsed having an unmet HRSN, including housing, nutrition, financial, or transportation issues, and many barriers to addressing these HRSNs were discussed. Finally, many members cited a preference for discussing HRSNs with community-based care coordinators and social workers at the community partner organizations rather than with their health care clinicians. Community-based care coordinators were lauded as essential facilitators in making the connection to necessary resources to help address HRSNs. Study results highlight an opportunity to increase the effectiveness of HRSN screening and referral practices within the health care setting through relationship building between Medicaid members and diverse interdisciplinary care teams that include staff such as community health workers. Continued investment in cross-sector partnerships, screening workflows, and patient-clinician relationships may contribute to establishing an environment in which members can comfortably discuss HRSNs and connect with needed services to improve their health.

Precision emergency medicine in health care delivery and access: Framework development and research priorities.

The integration of precision emergency medicine (EM) into our conceptualization of the health care system affords the opportunity to improve health care access, delivery, and outcomes for patients. As part of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM) Consensus Conference, we conducted a rapid literature review to characterize the current state of knowledge pertaining to the intersection of precision EM (defined as the use of big data and technology to deliver acute care for individual patients and their communities) with health care delivery and access. We then used our findings to develop a proposed conceptual model and research agenda. We completed a rapid review of the existing literature on the utilization of big data and technology to ensure and enhance access to acute/unscheduled care for individual patients and their communities. Literature searches were conducted using Ovid MEDLINE, Embase.com, Cochrane CENTRAL via Ovid, and ClinicalTrials.gov in January 2023. Using the identified articles, we determined core domains, developed a framework to guide the conceptualization of precision EM in health care delivery and access, and used these to identify a research agenda. Of the 815 studies identified for initial screening, 60 underwent full-text review by our technical expert panel and 21 were included in the evaluation. Core domains identified included expedited/personalized prehospital care, delivery to the right level of care, personalized ED care, alternatives to ED care/post-ED care, prediction tools for system readiness, and creation of equitable systems of care. A research agenda with four priority research questions was defined following identification of the core domains. Precision EM includes consideration of the health care delivery system as a mechanism for improving access to emergency care using data-driven strategies. This provides a unique opportunity to use data and technology to advance systems of care while also centering patients, communities, and equity in these advances.

7334 Changing Trends In Oral Bisphosphonate Therapy: A 25-Year Surveillance In A US Healthcare System

Abstract Disclosure: J.C. Lo: None. M. Chandra: None. M.M. Khan: None. L.D. Carbone: None. E.A. Garcia: None. G.H. Tabada: None. D. Low: None. R.L. Hui: None. Introduction: Bisphosphonate (BP) drugs remain one of the first line therapies for fracture prevention, but treatment patterns have changed since BPs were first approved for osteoporosis. This study examines trends among adults initiating oral BP in a large US healthcare system over a 25-year period (1988-2022) and in each successive 5-year period. Methods: The study cohort comprised adults aged 50-89y who initiated alendronate, risedronate or oral ibandronate during 1998-2022 in an integrated healthcare delivery system, excluding those with select bone disorders, multiple myeloma, secondary metastatic cancer, end stage renal disease, and receipt of intravenous BP. Covariates included age (proportion age &amp;lt;65y), sex, race and ethnicity, and prior fracture (diagnosed within 5 years) using electronic health record data. Demographic trends and fracture status were examined across time periods. The chi-squared test and Cochrane-Armitage test for trend were used to examine differences and trends. This report extends findings from an earlier report of women initiating oral BP during 2004-2012 in the same healthcare population. Results: Among 208,780 adults (86% women) who initiated BP, including 26,646 (1998-2002, 35% &amp;lt;65y), 44,726 (2003-2007, 35% &amp;lt;65y), 34,005 (2008-2012, 24% &amp;lt;65y), 35,248 (2013-2017, 19% &amp;lt;65y), and 38,743 (2018-2022, 17% &amp;lt;65y) women and 2348 (1998-2002, 28% &amp;lt;65y), 4895 (2003-2007, 26% &amp;lt;65y), 5172 (2008-2012, 17% &amp;lt;65y), 5331 (2013-2017, 13% &amp;lt;65y), and 11,666 (2018-2022, 5% &amp;lt;65y) men in each 5-year period. Over time, an increasing proportion were age ≥65y (p&amp;lt;0.001 for trend), with larger numbers of older adults in later years partly reflecting initiatives targeting secondary fracture prevention (since 2008 for women, 2015 for men) and BMD screening (since 2011 for women, 2017 for men). Among women initiating BP, the proportion with prior fracture increased from 24-30% (pre-2008) to 43-45% (post-2008), partly reflecting secondary fracture prevention initiatives for women. For men, this proportion increased from 33% (1998-2002) to 42% (2003-2007), 47% (2008-2012), and 54% (2013-2017), but fell to 36% (2018-2022) after BMD screening initiatives began in 2017 for older men (primary prevention efforts). Racial and ethnic diversity in treatment also increased, comparing 1988-2002 (75.2% White, 2.5% Black, 8.6% Hispanic, 12.7% Asian/Pacific Islander) to 2018-2022 (61.5% White, 2.9% Black, 12.2% Hispanic, 21.1% Asian/Pacific Islander, p&amp;lt;0.001 for overall differences and % non-White). Conclusions: In a primary care population of adults initiating oral BP, a larger proportion in later years were age &amp;gt;65y, including larger numbers both with and without fracture coinciding with initiatives for fracture prevention. Among those initiating BP, the relative proportions with prior fracture in each period were likely influenced by primary or secondary prevention efforts. Presentation: 6/2/2024

9212 Changing Trends In Oral Bisphosphonate Therapy: A 25-Year Surveillance In A US Healthcare System

Abstract Disclosure: J.C. Lo: None. M. Chandra: None. M.M. Khan: None. L.D. Carbone: None. E.A. Garcia: None. G.H. Tabada: None. D. Low: None. R.L. Hui: None. Introduction: Bisphosphonate (BP) drugs remain one of the first line therapies for fracture prevention, but treatment patterns have changed since BPs were first approved for osteoporosis. This study examines trends among adults initiating oral BP in a large US healthcare system over a 25-year period (1988-2022) and in each successive 5-year period. Methods: The study cohort comprised adults aged 50-89y who initiated alendronate, risedronate or oral ibandronate during 1998-2022 in an integrated healthcare delivery system, excluding those with select bone disorders, multiple myeloma, secondary metastatic cancer, end stage renal disease, and receipt of intravenous BP. Covariates included age (proportion age &amp;lt;65y), sex, race and ethnicity, and prior fracture (diagnosed within 5 years) using electronic health record data. Demographic trends and fracture status were examined across time periods. The chi-squared test and Cochrane-Armitage test for trend were used to examine differences and trends. This report extends findings from an earlier report of women initiating oral BP during 2004-2012 in the same healthcare population. Results: Among 208,780 adults (86% women) who initiated BP, including 26,646 (1998-2002, 35% &amp;lt;65y), 44,726 (2003-2007, 35% &amp;lt;65y), 34,005 (2008-2012, 24% &amp;lt;65y), 35,248 (2013-2017, 19% &amp;lt;65y), and 38,743 (2018-2022, 17% &amp;lt;65y) women and 2348 (1998-2002, 28% &amp;lt;65y), 4895 (2003-2007, 26% &amp;lt;65y), 5172 (2008-2012, 17% &amp;lt;65y), 5331 (2013-2017, 13% &amp;lt;65y), and 11,666 (2018-2022, 5% &amp;lt;65y) men in each 5-year period. Over time, an increasing proportion were age ≥65y (p&amp;lt;0.001 for trend), with larger numbers of older adults in later years partly reflecting initiatives targeting secondary fracture prevention (since 2008 for women, 2015 for men) and BMD screening (since 2011 for women, 2017 for men). Among women initiating BP, the proportion with prior fracture increased from 24-30% (pre-2008) to 43-45% (post-2008), partly reflecting secondary fracture prevention initiatives for women. For men, this proportion increased from 33% (1998-2002) to 42% (2003-2007), 47% (2008-2012), and 54% (2013-2017), but fell to 36% (2018-2022) after BMD screening initiatives began in 2017 for older men (primary prevention efforts). Racial and ethnic diversity in treatment also increased, comparing 1988-2002 (75.2% White, 2.5% Black, 8.6% Hispanic, 12.7% Asian/Pacific Islander) to 2018-2022 (61.5% White, 2.9% Black, 12.2% Hispanic, 21.1% Asian/Pacific Islander, p&amp;lt;0.001 for overall differences and % non-White). Conclusions: In a primary care population of adults initiating oral BP, a larger proportion in later years were age &amp;gt;65y, including larger numbers both with and without fracture coinciding with initiatives for fracture prevention. Among those initiating BP, the relative proportions with prior fracture in each period were likely influenced by primary or secondary prevention efforts. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Racial Residential Segregation and Mental Health During Pregnancy

Research suggests the social, physical, and socioeconomic contexts of residing in segregated neighborhoods may negatively affect mental health. To assess the association between racial residential segregation and prenatal mental health among Asian, Black, Hispanic, and White individuals. This population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC), an integrated health care delivery system. Participants included self-identified Asian, Black, Hispanic, and White pregnant individuals who attended at least 1 prenatal care visit at KPNC between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2019. Data were analyzed from January 14, 2023, to August 15, 2024. Racial residential segregation, defined by the local Getis-Ord Gi* statistic, was calculated in each racial and ethnic group and categorized as low (<0), medium (0-1.96), or high (>1.96). A positive Gi* statistic indicates overrepresentation (greater clustering or segregation) of the racial and ethnic group in an index census tract and neighboring tracts compared with the larger surrounding geographic area. Prenatal depression and anxiety defined by diagnoses codes documented in the electronic health record between the first day of the last menstrual period and the day prior to birth. Among the 201 115 participants included in the analysis (mean [SD] age, 30.8 [5.3] years; 26.8% Asian, 6.6% Black, 28.0% Hispanic, and 38.6% White), prenatal depression and anxiety were highest in Black individuals (18.3% and 18.4%, respectively), followed by White (16.0% and 18.2%, respectively), Hispanic (13.0% and 14.4%, respectively), and Asian (5.7% and 6.4%, respectively) individuals. Asian (40.8% vs 31.1%) and Black (43.3% vs 22.6%) individuals were more likely to live in neighborhoods with high vs low segregation, while Hispanic individuals were equally likely (34.3% vs 34.7%). High compared with low segregation was associated with greater odds of prenatal depression (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.25 [95% CI, 1.10-1.42]) and anxiety (AOR, 1.14 [95% CI, 1.00-1.29]) among Black individuals. High segregation was associated with lower odds of prenatal depression among Asian (AOR, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.69-0.82]), Hispanic (AOR, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.82-0.94]), and White (AOR, 0.91 [95% CI, 0.86-0.96]) individuals. Similar associations were found for anxiety among Asian (AOR, 0.80 [95% CI, 0.73-0.87]) and Hispanic (AOR, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.82-0.93]) but not White (AOR, 0.95 [95% CI, 0.90-1.00]) individuals. In this cross-sectional study, racial and ethnic residential segregation was associated with worse prenatal mental health for Black individuals but better mental health for Asian, Hispanic, and White individuals. Policies reducing segregation and its impact may improve mental health outcomes in pregnant Black individuals.

Clinical Use of Mental Health Digital Therapeutics in a Large Health Care Delivery System: Retrospective Patient Cohort Study and Provider Survey.

While the number of digital therapeutics (DTx) has proliferated, there is little real-world research on the characteristics of providers recommending DTx, their recommendation behaviors, or the characteristics of patients receiving recommendations in the clinical setting. The aim of this study was to characterize the clinical and demographic characteristics of patients receiving DTx recommendations and describe provider characteristics and behaviors regarding DTx. This retrospective cohort study used electronic health record data from a large, integrated health care delivery system. Demographic and clinical characteristics of adult patients recommended versus not recommended DTx by a mental health provider between May 2020 and December 2021 were examined. A cross-sectional survey of mental health providers providing these recommendations was conducted in December 2022 to assess the characteristics of providers and recommendation behaviors related to DTx. Parametric and nonparametric tests were used to examine statistical significance between groups. Of 335,250 patients with a mental health appointment, 53,546 (16%) received a DTx recommendation. Patients recommended to DTx were younger, were of Asian or Hispanic race or ethnicity, were female, were without medical comorbidities, and had commercial insurance compared to those without a DTx recommendation (P<.001). More patients receiving a DTx recommendation had anxiety or adjustment disorder diagnoses, but less had depression, bipolar, or psychotic disorder diagnoses (P<.001) versus matched controls not recommended to DTx. Overall, depression and anxiety symptom scores were lower in patients recommended to DTx compared to matched controls not receiving a recommendation, although female patients had a higher proportion of severe depression and anxiety scores compared to male patients. Provider survey results indicated a higher proportion of nonprescribers recommended DTx to patients compared to prescribers (P=.008). Of all providers, 29.4% (45/153) reported using the suggested internal electronic health record-based tools (eg, smart text) to recommend DTx, and of providers recommending DTx resources to patients, 64.1% (98/153) reported they follow up with patients to inquire on DTx benefits. Only 38.4% (58/151) of respondents report recommending specific DTx modules, and of those, 58.6% (34/58) report following up on the impact of these specific modules. DTx use in mental health was modest and varied by patient and provider characteristics. Providers do not appear to actively engage with these tools and integrate them into treatment plans. Providers, while expressing interest in potential benefits from DTx, may view DTx as a passive strategy to augment traditional treatment for select patients.