Routine Follow-up Care Research Articles

Obstructive sleep apnea risk and associated factors among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Africa: systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundAlthough obstructive sleep apnea affects people all across the world, there is limited information about the conditions in developing countries, notably in Africa. This study was conducted to address the aforementioned gaps by assessing the prevalence and determinants of obstructive sleep apnea risk among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Africa.MethodsTo strengthen the credibility and transparency of the study the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocol (PRISMA—P 2015) guideline were utilized for the review. Two independent reviewers searched electronic databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, and African Journal Online. The researchers used Microsoft Excel for initial data import and STATA software for statistical analysis. Cochran’s Q test was used to assess the presence of significant statistical heterogeneity I² statistic also used to quantify the degree of heterogeneity.ResultsElectronic searches produced a total of 1072 papers. The study estimates that the pooled prevalence of OSA risk among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Africa is 41.13% (95% CI: 17.95–54.30, I² = 89.4%). There was significant heterogeneity among the selected studies (Q test P < 0.001) and I² (I² = 89.4%). Hypertension (AOR = 4.07, 95%CI: 2.84, 5.81), being male (AOR = 3.06, 95%CI: 0.97, 9.62), body mass index of ≥ 30 kg/m² (AOR = 3.05, 95%CI: 0.86, 10.83) and neck circumference of 40 cm (AOR = 8.55, 95%CI: 4.83, 15.12) were factors associated with obstructive sleep apnea risk among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.ConclusionsThe study found a high prevalence of high-risk obstructive sleep apnea risk among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Male gender, body mass index of ≥ 30 kg/m² (obesity), neck circumference of > 40 cm and comorbid hypertension were significantly associated with obstructive sleep apnea risk among the study participants. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating obstructive sleep apnea screening and evaluation procedures into routine follow-up care for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Monitoring and integrated care coordination of patients with alpha-mannosidosis: A global Delphi consensus study

IntroductionCurrent literature lacks consensus on initial assessments and routine follow-up care of patients with alpha-mannosidosis (AM). A Delphi panel was conducted to generate and validate recommendations on best practices for initial assessment, routine follow-up care, and integrated care coordination of patients with AM. MethodsA modified Delphi method involving 3 rounds of online surveys was used. An independent administrator and 2 nonvoting physician co-chairs managed survey development, anonymous data collection, and analysis. A multidisciplinary panel comprising 20 physicians from 12 countries responded to 57 open-ended questions in the first survey. Round 2 consisted of 11 ranking questions and 44 voting statements. In round 3, panelists voted to validate 60 consensus statements. The panel response rate was ≥95% in all 3 rounds. Panelists used 5-point Likert scales to indicate importance (score of ≥3) or agreement (score of ≥4). Consensus was defined a priori as ≥75% agreement with ≥75% of panelists voting. ResultsConsensus was reached on 60 statements, encompassing 3 key areas: initial assessments, routine follow-up care, and treatment-related follow-up. The panel agreed on the type and frequency of assessments related to genetic testing, baseline evaluations, quality of life, biochemical measures, affected body systems, treatment received, and integrated care coordination in patients with AM. Forty-nine statements reached 90% to 100% consensus, 8 statements reached 80% to 85% consensus, and 1 statement reached 75% consensus. Two statements each reached consensus on 15 baseline assessments to be conducted at the initial follow-up visit after diagnosis in pediatric and adult patients. ConclusionThis is the first Delphi study providing internationally applicable, best-practice recommendations for monitoring patients with AM that may improve their care and well-being.

Survivorship after adolescent and young adult cancer: models of care, disparities, and opportunities.

Survivors of adolescent and young adult (AYA; age 15-39 years at diagnosis) cancer are a growing population with the potential to live for many decades after treatment completion. Survivors of AYA cancer are at risk for adverse long-term outcomes including chronic conditions, secondary cancers, impaired fertility, poor psychosocial health and health behaviors, and financial toxicity. Furthermore, survivors of AYA cancer from racially minoritized and low socioeconomic status populations experience disparities in these outcomes, including lower long-term survival. Despite these known risks, most survivors of AYA cancer do not receive routine survivorship follow-up care, and research on delivering high-quality, evidence-based survivorship care to these patients is lacking. The need for survivorship care was initially advanced in 2006 by the Institute of Medicine. In 2019, the Quality of Cancer Survivorship Care Framework (QCSCF) was developed to provide an evidence-based framework to define key components of optimal survivorship care. In this commentary focused on survivors of AYA cancer, we apply the QCSCF framework to describe models of care that can be adapted for their unique needs, multilevel factors limiting equitable access to care, and opportunities to address these factors to improve short- and long-term outcomes in this vulnerable population.

Application and Effect of Patient Portal System in the Remote Management of Chronic Diseases for Older Adults With Coronary Heart Disease

To investigate the application of personal health record (PHR) and chronic disease management platform established on the basis of patient portal system (PPS) in managing older adults with coronary heart disease and to examine the effect on patients' self-care ability, coping mode, and quality of life. A total of 532 elderly patients with coronary heart disease were included in the study. All the participants enrolled were admitted to a tertiary-care hospital between January 2019 and June 2021. They were randomly assigned to the study group (269 cases) and the control group (263 cases). Patients in the control group were discharged with the routine discharge procedures and received the routine follow-up care. On the other hand, patients in the study group were discharged and followed up through the PHR and chronic disease management platform established on the basis of PPS. After 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months of patient management, the Exercise of Self-Care Agency (ESCA) Scale, Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire (MCMQ) and Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ) were used to evaluate the patients' self-care ability, coping mode, and quality of life, respectively. The patient management effects of the two groups were analyzed. Before the management programs started, there was no statistically significant difference in the scores for the scales between the two groups of patients. After 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months of patient management, the ESCA scores of both groups were higher than those before patient management started (P<0.05). Facing scores in the MCMQ of both groups were higher than those before patient management started (P<0.05), while the scores for avoidance and yielding were lower than those before patient management started (P<0.05). The SAQ scores of both groups were higher than those before patient management started (P<0.05). After 6 months, 12 months and 18 months of patient management, the ESCA scores of the study group were always higher compared with those of the control group (P<0.05). The facing score of the study group was higher, while the scores for avoidance and yielding were lower compared with those of the control group (P<0.05). The SAQ scores of the study group were higher compared with those of the control group (P<0.05). The medication compliance rate in the study group (83.27%) was higher than that in the control group (69.96%) (P<0.05). The incidence of adverse cardiovascular events in the study group (4.09%) was lower than that in the control group (10.27%) (P<0.05). The average times of emergency treatment and readmission in the study group were lower compared with those of the control group (P<0.05). The patient satisfaction score of the study group was higher compared with that of the control group (P<0.05). The PHR and chronic disease management platform established on the basis of PPS can increase the convenient access to medical care among elderly patients with coronary heart disease, which is conducive to improving their self-care ability, coping mode, and quality of life. In addition, the patient management effect is good.

Knowledge and attitude towards preconception care and associated factors among women of reproductive age with chronic disease in Amhara region referral hospitals, Ethiopia, 2022

IntroductionPreconception care (PCC) is an important window to target maternal morbidity and mortality, especially for women with chronic diseases. However, little is known about knowledge and attitudes towards preconception care among women with chronic disease. Therefore, this study aimed to assess knowledge and attitude towards preconception care and associated factors among women of reproductive age with chronic disease in Amhara region referral hospitals, Ethiopia, 2022.MethodA multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted in Amhara region referral hospitals from April 15 to June 1, 2022. A total 828 women of reproductive age with chronic disease in four referral hospitals were selected using a stratified and systematic random sampling technique. Data was collected by using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and chart review. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were carried out. An Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was computed to see the strength of association between outcome and independent variables. P-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.ResultsThis study found that 55.6% of respondents had a good knowledge of preconception care, and 50.2% had a good attitude towards PCC. Formal education (AOR: 1.997, 95% CI: 1.247, 3.196), primiparity (AOR: 2.589, 95% CI: 1.132, 5.921), preconception counseling (AOR: 3.404, 95% CI: 2.170, 5.340), duration of disease ≥ 5 years (AOR: 6.495, 95% CI: 4.091, 10.310) were significantly associated with knowledge of PCC. Older age (≥ 35years) (AOR: 2.143, 95% CI: 1.058, 4.339), secondary education and above (AOR: 2.427, 95% CI: 1.421, 4.146), history of modern family planning use (AOR: 2.853 95% CI: 1.866, 4.362), preconception counseling (AOR: 2.209, 95% CI: 1.429, 3.414) and good knowledge of PCC (AOR: 20.629, 95% CI: 12.425, 34.249) were significantly associated with attitude towards PCC.ConclusionsWomen’s knowledge and attitude towards preconception care were found to be low. Important measures include promoting secondary education and carrying out awareness campaigns, incorporating preconception counseling into routine medical follow-up care, and encouraging the use of modern family planning methods.

Protocol for evaluation of the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a targeted transition readiness workshop intervention for pediatric brain tumor survivors

BackgroundPediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS) are at risk of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial challenges related to their diagnosis and treatment. Routine follow-up care as adults is therefore essential to their long-term health and quality of life. In order to successfully navigate to adult healthcare, it is recommended that youth develop transition readiness skills. Existing transition readiness interventions often focus on disease management. However, PBTS are also at risk of social competence and cognitive functioning challenges. In this paper, we describe the protocol of this pilot study and the methodology that will be used for the evaluation of the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy testing of the first targeted transition intervention workshops specifically designed to meet the needs of PBTS and their caregivers.MethodsThis study will use a mixed method to evaluate three 1 ½-h workshops targeted for dyads (N = 40) of PBTS (14 years or older) and their parents. Dyads will be recruited via a community pediatric cancer organization and the long-term follow-up clinic of a large pediatric hospital. Participants will complete an online survey which includes the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ) before and after the workshops.Each workshop will cover a specific topic related to PBTS transition readiness: disease management, social competence, and cognitive functioning. Workshops will follow the same structure: topic presentation, discussion by a post-transfer survivor or parent, teaching two strategies, and workshop evaluation. Workshops will be co-led by healthcare specialists and patient partners.Feasibility and acceptability will be assessed via recruitment, attendance, retention, and Likert scales, and they will be analyzed by describing and comparing rates. Satisfaction will be measured using satisfaction surveys and audio-recorded focus groups. Qualitative data will be described through thematic content analysis. In order to test the preliminary efficacy of this study, we will compare transition readiness skills pre- and post-workshops using paired samples T test and ANCOVA to examine the impact of workshop on TRAQ skills.DiscussionResults of the study will inform refinement and future broader implementation of targeted transition readiness workshops for the specific needs of pediatric brain tumor survivors.

A case of primary squamous cell carcinoma of the parotid gland and review of the literature

Introduction: Primary parotid squamous cell carcinoma (PPSCC) is a rare malignant epithelial tumor originating in the parotid gland with complex diagnostic procedures and a poor prognosis. The etiology, tissue origin, and biological behavior of the disease are currently unknown due to its underreporting. It is crucial to differentiate this type of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the parotid gland from other salivary gland tumors because of its widespread invasiveness, which leads to high mortality. Case Report: This article reports a case of a 62-year-old male patient in whom histopathological examination confirmed that the tumor was squamous cell carcinoma. Since the patient had no other main source, the ultimate diagnosis was the primary SCC of the parotid gland. The patient is currently receiving routine follow-up care and has shown no signs of recurrence. Conclusion: In conclusion, even asymptomatic individuals should be highly regarded to prevent mistakes because the diagnostic process for this disease is complicated. The presence of metastatic cancer should be ruled out, and histology and immunohistochemistry should be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Mortality patterns of patients with tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma: a population-based study.

Tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) and second primary malignancies (SPMs) are the most common causes of mortality in patients with primary TSCC. However, the competing data on TSCC-specific death (TSD) or SPM-related death in patients with TSCC have not been evaluated. This study aimed to analyze the mortality patterns and formulate prediction models of mortality risk caused by TSCC and SPMs. Data on patients with a first diagnosis of TSCC were extracted as the training cohort from the 18 registries comprising the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. A competing risk approach of cumulation incidence function was used to estimate cumulative incidence curves. Fine and gray proportional sub-distributed hazard model analyses were performed to investigate the risk factors of TSD and SPMs. A nomogram was developed to predict the 5- and 10-year risk probabilities of death caused by TSCC and SPMs. Moreover, data from the 22 registries of the SEER database were also extracted to validate the nomograms. In the training cohort, we identified 14,530 patients with primary TSCC, with TSCC (46.84%) as the leading cause of death, followed by SPMs (26.86%) among all causes of death. In the proportion of SPMs, the lungs and bronchus (22.64%) were the most common sites for SPM-related deaths, followed by the larynx (9.99%), esophagus (8.46%), and Non-Melanoma skin (6.82%). Multivariate competing risk model showed that age, ethnicity, marital status, primary site, summary stage, radiotherapy, and surgery were independently associated with mortality caused by TSCC and SPMs. Such risk factors were selected to formulate prognostic nomograms. The nomograms showed preferable discrimination and calibration in both the training and validation cohorts. Patients with primary TSCC have a high mortality risk of SPMs, and the competing risk nomogram has an ideal performance for predicting TSD and SPMs-related mortality. Routine follow-up care for TSCC survivors should be expanded to monitor SPMs.

Deep learning imaging reconstruction of reduced-dose 40 keV virtual monoenergetic imaging for early detection of colorectal cancer liver metastases

ObjectiveTo explore whether reduced-dose (RD) gemstone spectral imaging (GSI) and deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR) of 40 keV virtual monoenergetic image (VMI) enhanced the early detection and diagnosis of colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRLM). MethodsThirty-five participants with pathologically confirmed colorectal cancer were prospectively enrolled from March to August 2022 after routine care abdominal computed tomography (CT). GSI mode was used for contrast-enhanced CT, and two portal venous phase CT images were obtained [standard-dose (SD) CT dose index (CTDIvol) = 15.51 mGy, RD CTDIvol = 7.95 mGy]. The 40 keV-VMI were reconstructed via filtered back projection (FBP) and iterative reconstruction (ASIR-V 60 %, AV60) of both SD and RD images. RD medium-strength deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR-M) and RD high-strength deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR-H) were used to reconstruct the 40 keV-VMI. The contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the liver and the lesions were objectively evaluated. The overall image quality, lesion conspicuity, and diagnostic confidence were subjectively evaluated, to compare the differences in evaluation results among the different images. ResultsAll 35 participants (mean age: 59.51 ± 11.01 years; 14 females) underwent SD and RD GSI portal venous-phase CT scans. The dose-length product of the RD GSI scan was reduced by 49–53 % lower than that of the SD GSI scan (420.22 ± 31.95) vs (817.58 ± 60.56). A total of 219 lesions were identified, including 55 benign lesions and 164 metastases, with an average size of 7.37 ± 4.14 mm. SD-FBP detected 207 lesions, SD-AV60 detected 201 lesions, and DLIR-M and DLIR-H detected 199 and 190 lesions, respectively. For lesions ≤ 5 mm, there was no statistical difference between SD-FBP vs DLIR-M (χ2McNemar = 1.00, P = 0.32) and SD-AV60 vs DLIR-M (χ2McNemar = 0.33, P = 0.56) in the detection rate. The CNR, SNR, and noise of DLIR-M and DLIR-H 40 keV-VMI images were better than those of SD-FBP images (P < 0.01) but did not differ significantly from those of SD-AV60 images (P > 0.05). When the lesions ≤ 5 mm, there were statistical differences in the overall diagnostic sensitivity of lesions compared with SD-FBP, SD-AV60, DLIR-M and DLIR-H (P＜0.01). There were no statistical differences in the sensitivity of lesions diagnosis between SD-FBP, SD-AV60 and DLIR-M (both P＞0.05). However, the DLIR-M subjective image quality and lesion diagnostic confidence were higher for SD-FBP (both P < 0.01). ConclusionReduced dose DLIR-M of 40 keV-VMI can be used for routine follow-up care of colorectal cancer patients, to optimize evaluations and ensure CT image quality. Meanwhile, the detection rate and diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of small lesions, early liver metastases is not obviously reduced.

A systematic review of smartphone applications for cancer survivors.

Mobile phone applications are positioned to support, educate, and empower cancer survivors during post-treatment care. We undertook a review to assess the utility of such smartphone applications; determine whether their use correlates with improved quality of life and other self-reported outcomes; and understand the feasibility of integrating mobile apps into routine follow-up care. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Emcare, and PsycINFO databases were searched for studies evaluating apps that addressed at least one of the five Cancer Survivorship Care Quality Framework (CSCQF) domains published up until December 2021. Studies were narratively synthesized. Implementation barriers and facilitators were mapped against the Technology Acceptance Model. Twenty-three primary studies were included in this review. Only three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified. Studies generally found mobile apps to be feasible, acceptable, and well-placed to support survivorship care. Health promotion was the most predominant CSCQF domain with apps primarily aiming to support exercise and dietary changes. The domains of monitoring for cancer recurrence (n=5) and management of co-morbidities (n=1) were underrepresented. Barriers to app use included greater time since active treatment, lack of familiarity with technology, and content not tailored to the user. Mobile apps are both feasible and acceptable in supporting the transition between active treatment and follow-up care. However, understanding the utility of such apps is limited by the low number of RCTs. Mobile apps have the potential to be useful support tools for patients post-treatment. However, given the number of apps developed, targeted, and available to cancer survivors, practical guidance to help cancer survivors choose appropriate apps is needed.

The Role of the Nurse in the Care and Management of Patients with Rheumatic Diseases Arising from the Current EULAR Recommendations: A Literature Review.

In some countries, restructuring of the healthcare system has contributed to the introduction of a new domain in professional nursing-the Advanced Practice Nurse (APN). In order to provide the highest quality of care to patients, nurses working at the advanced level are expected to develop knowledge and to initiate services and practices carried out in collaboration with other professionals. In 2018, the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) updated its recommendations for the role of the nurse in the management and care of patients with rheumatic conditions. The objective of the study was a presentation of the scope of medical services provided by nurses for patients with rheumatic diseases based on current EULAR recommendations. A review of the literature on the participation of nurses, as members of a multidisciplinary team, in the education, management, psychosocial support, and promotion of self-care in patients with rheumatic diseases was presented. The expert group formulated three overarching principles and eight recommendations. The literature review and expert recommendations indicated that nurses' tasks in relation to patients with rheumatic diseases should include an initial assessment of health needs, routine follow-up care, and counseling for patients on self-care and lifestyle changes. In the EULAR recommendations, nursing care is also defined as a practice model in which nurses, in collaboration with physicians, provide support, education, and disease monitoring to patients with rheumatic conditions. The requirement for extended nursing education at the advanced practice level, aimed at acquiring diagnostic, therapeutic, caring, and educational knowledge and skills was highlighted, particularly with regard to the EULAR recommendations.

Effectiveness of a cardiovascular health EHR application for cancer survivors in community oncology practice: Results from WF-1804CD.

LBA12007 Background: Practice guidelines recommend cardiovascular risk assessment and counseling for cancer survivors. The Automated Heart-Health Assessment study (AH-HA: WF-1804CD, NCT# 03935282) evaluated a novel electronic health record (EHR) clinical decision support tool based on American Heart Association Simple 7 cardiovascular health (CVH) factors to promote provider-patient CVH discussions in outpatient oncology. Methods: This clinic-randomized trial (R01CA226078), coordinated by the Wake Forest NCORP Research Base (UG1CA189824), randomized NCORP oncology practices using the Epic EHR to the AH-HA tool or usual care and enrolled survivors receiving routine care at least 6 months post-curative cancer treatment. The tool rendered an interactive display of risk factors, automatically populated from the EHR, alongside a tab indicating receipt of cancer treatments with cardiotoxic potential. Survivors at AH-HA sites had tool access during a routine visit; survivors at usual care sites did not. Immediately post-visit, each survivor was asked about counseling on 7 CVH factors [body mass index, physical activity, diet, smoking status, blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose]. The primary endpoint is survivor-reported discussion of non-ideal or missing CVH factors; with 8 randomized practices (ICC=0.03), the study design had 82% power to detect a difference of 20% reported discussions in usual care versus 40% in AH-HA. Additional clinical endpoints were documentation of CVH discussions, referrals to primary care and cardiology, and change in CVH factors over 12 months (ongoing). A mixed effects logistic regression model assessed the effect of AH-HA on CVH discussions between the arms, with study arm as a fixed effect and practice as a random effect. Results: 5 usual care and 4 AH-HA practices enrolled 645 survivors from 10/1/2020- 2/28/2023. The majority had breast cancer (82%; 8% endometrial, 5% colorectal, 5% prostate, lymphoma or multiple types). Most survivors were female (96%; 84% White/non-Hispanic, 8% Black; 3% Hispanic; mean age= 62 yrs and median time since diagnosis=3.6 yrs). 18 participants (3%) did not complete necessary assessments, leaving 627 evaluable. 87% of providers (n=15) rated the tool utility and ease of use positively. Conclusions: The AH-HA tool was acceptable and effective at promoting CVH discussions during routine follow-up care for survivors and referrals to primary care. Clinical trial information: NCT03935282 . [Table: see text]

Evaluation of Social Platform-Based Continuity of Care in Improving Cognitive and Prognostic Effects of Young Patients with Diabetic Retinopathy.

This study was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of social platform-based continuity of care in improving cognitive and prognostic effects of young age diabetic patients without diabetic retinopathy (DR). A total of 88 young age diabetic patients admitted to the outpatient clinic of First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University (Endocrine and Ophthalmology Outpatient) from January 2021 to May 2022 were recruited and assigned via random number table method to receive either routine follow-up care (routine group) or social platform-based continuity of care (WeChat group), with 44 patients in each group. Treatment compliance, cognitive-behavioral ability, self-care ability (self-care responsibility, self-care skills, self-status, knowledge of diabetic retinopathy), quality of life (physical function, psychosocial, symptom and visual function, social activity), and prognosis of the patients were analyzed to investigate the effectiveness of WeChat social platform-based continuity of care. All patients were followed up for one year. Patients receiving WeChat social platform-based continuity of care exhibited obviously higher treatment compliance and better cognitive-behavioral ability, self-care responsibility, self-care skills, self-state, and diabetic retinopathy knowledge follow-up than those with routine care (P<0.05). Patients in the WeChat group had significantly better physical function, mental psychology, symptoms and visual function, and social activity levels than those in the routine group (P<0.05). WeChat-based continuity of care resulted in a significantly lower incidence of visual acuity loss and diabetic retinopathy during follow-up than routine care (P<0.05). WeChat social platform-based continuity of care effectively improves treatment compliance and diabetic retinopathy awareness, and enhances self-care ability of young patients with diabetes mellitus. The life quality of these patients is improved and the risk of poor prognosis has been reduced.

ASSESSMENT OF AWARENESS OF DIABETIC RETINOPATHY AMONG PATIENTS WITH DIABETES MELLITUS ATTENDING THE CARE DIABETES CENTER

Objectives: The objective of the study is to assess the level of diabetes mellitus patients’ awareness about diabetic retinopathy and their action toward getting screening tests and follow-up visits. Methods: Diabetes mellitus patients who attended the care diabetes center were administered a questionnaire to assess their awareness of diabetic retinopathy and the need to have a routine screening and follow-up care for disease. Results: A total of 300 diabetes patients were included in the study. Of the enrolled patients; 143 (48%) were males and 157 (52%) were females. Patients who believed that diabetes could affect their eyes are of 78%, controlling the blood sugar levels can help preserve vision 53%, and diabetes can lead to blindness 24%. Only 8% people claimed to be familiar with diabetic retinopathy. When asked whether it was important for diabetes patients to have their eye check-up, annually 62% of patients answered yes. However, only 33% of patients get their eyes checked annually. When asked about barriers preventing patients from getting eye screening, lack of knowledge about diabetic retinopathy scored more 44%. Conclusion: Although most of the subjects of this study knew that diabetes mellitus can affect the eye and that better control of diabetes mellitus can preserve their vision, only a few people are aware that diabetes can lead to blindness and what diabetic retinopathy is. Moreover, most of the patients reported that the barrier preventing them from getting eye screening is a lack of knowledge about diabetic retinopathy. Due to the lack of knowledge, patients are not having appropriate screening and management of diabetic retinopathy. These findings show the need for increasing the awareness of diabetic retinopathy among diabetic patients and the importance of annual ophthalmic eye screening.

The association between social determinants of health and patient-centred outcomes in adults with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

To explore the associations between social determinants of health and patient-centred outcomes among adults with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Cross-sectional online self-report survey. A survey assessing social determinants of health (demographics, socio-economic position, affordability of care and social support) and patient-centred outcomes, including the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire-12 and validated measures of medication adherence, treatment satisfaction, treatment burden and mental health, was completed by 512 adults with chronic heart failure with a reduced ejection fraction between 06 March and 29 June 2020. Multivariable analyses included linear and logistic regression. Female gender, having a care partner, and being offered financial assistance with medications were associated with worse health status, while perceiving medication as affordable and being married were associated with better health status. Females and having Medicaid, dual Medicaid/Medicare or no medical insurance were associated with a higher likelihood of depression, and non-white race/ethnicity was associated with less depression. Medication adherence was lower in patients having a care partner and offered financial assistance. Patients being offered financial and medication management assistance were more likely to be overwhelmed by the treatment burden, whereas those having some college education were less so. Social determinants of health are associated with patients' disease-specific health status, mental health and treatment satisfaction and burden. These findings underscore the importance of assessing social determinants of health in clinical practice and the need for developing and testing novel strategies to determine whether they improve patients' health. The relationship between social determinants of health- and patient-centred outcomes was assessed; affordability of care and social support factors were most strongly associated with outcomes for patients with chronic heart failure and reduced ejection fraction, underscoring the importance of assessing social determinants of health in routine clinical care. Social determinants of health data could potentially inform care delivery for patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction by helping to identify those who require additional support to manage their symptoms, access care and adhere to treatment. Social support and affordability of treatment were associated with most patient-centred outcomes, suggesting these factors may provide clinicians with an indicator of a patient's level of general well-being that could be assessed during routine follow-up care. This research followed the STROBE checklist for cross-sectional studies. Adults who have heart failure with reduced ejection fraction that consented to participate in the study provided the data used for all analyses reported on in the manuscript. Service users, caregivers or members of the public had no involvement in the study.

Do live-stream telemedicine follow-up appointments for a Ponseti-treated clubfoot caseload compare favourably with a face-to-face review? Observed clinical outcomes and treatment provision during the COVID-19 pandemic

Restrictions on face-to-face (F2F) healthcare services during the recent COVID-19 pandemic necessitated novel provision of care for Ponseti-treated clubfoot patients. This retrospective review compares the effectiveness of telemedicine (TM) using live-stream videoconferencing compared to conventional F2F review, in two cohorts of 78 patients attending routine follow-up, during Ponseti-treated clubfoot bracing in their first 5 years. Rates of compliance, recurrence of deformity, and type of intervention provided were compared between cohorts. The TM cohort was re-evaluated F2F as part of routine follow-up care. Attendance rates were compared between cohorts and with an equivalent time period the previous year. There was no significant difference in the rate of compliance between cohorts (77% in the TM group, 74% in the F2F group), or in the rate of recurrence. Subsequent F2F review of the TM cohort showed that compliance had improved in some patients, indicating successful TM intervention. There were no missed cases of recurrence. TM follow-up appointments offered similar rates of management of skin problems, brace adjustment, and provision of exercises. At least one element of intervention was provided in 64% of the TM group, and 72% of the F2F group. TM connection was successful in 74% of booked appointments. The number of patients attending was similar to F2F bookings one year prior. The use of TM for routine follow-up of Ponseti-treated clubfoot patients can be as clinically effective as F2F assessment, and has potential for integration into routine follow-up care.

MP18-14 ASSESSMENT OF THE UROLOGICAL NEEDS OF ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG ADULTS SURVIVING CANCER AND/OR BLOOD AND MARROW TRANSPLANTATION AT A SINGLE TERTIARY CENTER

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP18-14 ASSESSMENT OF THE UROLOGICAL NEEDS OF ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG ADULTS SURVIVING CANCER AND/OR BLOOD AND MARROW TRANSPLANTATION AT A SINGLE TERTIARY CENTER Kathryn Trandem, Julie Nichols, Kathryn Tomlinson, Rachel Phelan, and Jonathan S. Ellison Kathryn TrandemKathryn Trandem More articles by this author , Julie NicholsJulie Nichols More articles by this author , Kathryn TomlinsonKathryn Tomlinson More articles by this author , Rachel PhelanRachel Phelan More articles by this author , and Jonathan S. EllisonJonathan S. Ellison More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003238.14AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: As more children survive childhood cancer and blood and marrow transplantation (BMT), focus on genitourinary survivorship including fertility but also urinary and sexual function has become increasingly important in recent years. As children survive these treatments and enter into adulthood, quality of life questions exist with regard to fertility and genitourinary function. Because such sensitive topics may not be volunteered in routine follow-up care, we sought to standardize a process to elicit such concerns within our oncology and BMT survivorship clinic. METHODS: Surveys regarding genitourinary symptoms were co-developed by a multidisciplinary survivorship team. Surveys were administered to all adolescents and young adults (AYA, age 15+) that attend our Children’s Wisconsin Next Steps survivorship clinic yearly. These are AYA patients that have a history of treatment for childhood cancer or BMT and have completed their full respective treatment courses a minimum of 2 years prior. The fifteen survey questions asked the patients about various genitourinary symptoms that they may have experienced since their treatment, including specific questions about fertility, sexual function, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). RESULTS: A total of 142 unique responses were received between March 2021 to June 2022. The average age of respondents were 19 years old (15-33 years) and 72 self-identified as men (50%). Forty seven percent were interested in learning more about fertility now or in the near future and 28% had already met with a fertility specialist. Ten (7%) complained of new onset LUTS. Six (4%) complained of difficulty with sexual function with 50 other patients saying they haven’t been sexually active yet. Seventy two (50%) were aware of possible fertility, sexual and/or LUTS side effects of their treatments. CONCLUSIONS: While fertility remains a critical issue with high interest in the AYA survivorship group, over 10% of survivors have issues with sexual and/or urinary function and control. The majority of survivors responded they were aware of possible fertility, urinary, and/or sexual side effects from their cancer and/or BMT. In addition to fertility preservation, discussions regarding genitourinary function need to be had with all AYA survivors. Genitourinary side effects in survivors of pediatric cancer treatments and BMT remains an understudied field. These patients may benefit from directed questions regarding symptomatology to help facilitate appropriate referral and treatment. Source of Funding: none © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e228 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Kathryn Trandem More articles by this author Julie Nichols More articles by this author Kathryn Tomlinson More articles by this author Rachel Phelan More articles by this author Jonathan S. Ellison More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

150 A Mixed Methods Pilot Study of Telemedicine Group Visits for Chronic Migraine in a Safety Net Health System

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Limited specialty care within safety net health systems reduces availability of follow-up appointments for chronic conditions. We evaluated patient acceptability of a 6 month series of telemedicine group medical visits for chronic migraine at a county hospital-based clinic as a potential method to improve access to specialty care in this setting. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: We developed and implemented a pilot program of monthly physician-led telemedicine group visits to provide routine follow-up care for adults with chronic migraine. Visits were conducted through the neurology clinic at LAC+USC medical center, a safety net hospital in Los Angeles and included an educational component, peer support, and the opportunity to address individual needs or refill medications. We assessed headache severity (HIT-6) and mood (PHQ-9) through telephone surveys before and 6 months after patients’ first telemedicine group visit and compared timepoints using paired t-tests. Patient acceptability of the group visits was elicited through focus groups and key themes identified using grounded field theory. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Baseline data was available for 18/20 pilot participants. Patients were predominantly female (89%) with mean age of 46 (SD 8.6). Mean HIT-6 was 65/78 reflecting a very severe impact on daily life, and mean PHQ-9 was 8.7 reflecting mild depressive symptoms. There was no statistically significant change in either HIT-6 (mean difference 2.36, p=0.34) or PHQ-9 (mean difference 2.09, p=0.12) after group participation. Key themes from the focus groups included lack of prior exposure to other people with similar headache burden and logistical barriers to care, such as difficulty contacting a provider or extended clinic wait times. Primary patient-reported benefits included more frequent access to a provider and peer support. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Telemedicine group visits for chronic migraine are feasible in a safety net context and were well-received by patients. However, this pilot study did not show a benefit of telemedicine group visits for headache control or mood symptoms.

The ANZ hernia repair practices study: low consensus on inguinal and small ventral hernia management and infrequent long-term follow-up.

The ANZ hernia repair practices study: low consensus on inguinal and small ventral hernia management and infrequent long-term follow-up.

Quality of Sarcoma Care: Longitudinal Real-Time Assessment and Evidence Analytics of Quality Indicators.

Sarcomas represent a large group of rare to very rare diseases, requiring complex management with a transdisciplinary approach. Overall progress has been hampered because of discipline, institution and network fragmentation, and there is no global data harmonization or quality standards. To report on and improve quality, a common definition of quality indicators (QIs) of sarcoma care as well as the capacity to assess longitudinal real-time data is required. An international advisory board of world-renowned sarcoma experts defined six categories of QIs, totaling more than 80 quality indicators. An interoperable (web-based) digital platform was then created combining the management of the weekly sarcoma board meeting with the sarcoma registry and incorporating patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) into the routine follow-up care to assess the entire care cycle of the patient. The QIs were then programmed into the digital platform for real-time analysis and visualization. The definition of standardized QIs covering all physician- (diagnostics and therapeutics), patient- (PROMS/PREMS), and cost-based aspects in combination with their real-time assessment over the entire sarcoma care cycle can be realized. Standardized QIs as well as their real-time assessment and data visualization are critical to improving the quality of sarcoma care. By enabling predictive modelling and introducing VBHC, precision health care for a complex disease is on the horizon.