Journal of general internal medicine
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Individual vs. Group Delivery of Acupuncture Therapy for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain in Urban Primary Care-a Randomized Trial.
Acupuncture has been shown to be effective for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal back, neck, and osteoarthritis pain. However, access to acupuncture treatment has been limited in medically underserved and low-income populations. ⋯ Both individual and group acupuncture therapy delivered in primary care settings reduced chronic pain and improved physical function at 12 weeks; non-inferiority of group was not shown.
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Half of women undergoing mammography have dense breasts. Mandatory dense breast notification and educational materials have been shown to confuse women, rather than empower them. ⋯ Findings highlight the benefits of a brief interactive educational exposure as well as misperceptions that persisted. Results demonstrate the need for an evidence-based, accessible intervention that is easy to understand for patients.
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Observational Study
Racial and Regional Disparities in Outcomes Among Veterans Initially Adherent to Oral Antidiabetic Therapies: an Observational Cohort Study.
Adherence to prescribed medications is connected with, but is not a guarantee of, improved disease management and health outcomes. It remains unclear whether underlying health disparities exist among patients adherent to therapy and whether differences in outcomes vary by race and residential areas of the country. ⋯ Despite adherence to therapy, differences in outcomes are likely among veterans with diabetes based on race and geography. Localized analyses may uncover specific social determinants contributing to differences in outcomes.
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Observational Study
Medication Non-adherence in a Prospective, Multi-center Cohort Treated with Hepatitis C Direct-Acting Antivirals.
The prevalence and risk factors for non-adherence to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) in clinical practice settings are under-studied. ⋯ DAA non-adherence was low and SVR rates were high. Mental health conditions, substance use, and alcohol use should not disqualify patients from DAA therapy. Patients with alcohol use disorder before DAA therapy initiation may benefit from targeted on-treatment support.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
The Partnership to Improve Diabetes Education Trial: a Cluster Randomized Trial Addressing Health Communication in Diabetes Care.
Effective type 2 diabetes care remains a challenge for patients including those receiving primary care in safety net settings. ⋯ Both interventions improved the participant's A1c and behavioral outcomes. PRIDE was not more effective than standard education. Further research may elucidate the added value of a focused health communication program in this setting.