The American journal of managed care
-
Presenteeism (decreased productivity while at work) is reported to be a major occupational problem in many countries. Challenges exist for identifying the optimal approach to measure presenteeism. Evidence of the relative value of presenteeism instruments to support their use in primary studies is needed. ⋯ Most presenteeism instruments have been examined for some form of validity; evidence for criterion validity is virtually absent. The selection of instruments for use in primary studies depends on weak forms of validity. Further research should focus on the goal of a comprehensive evaluation of the psychometric properties of existing tests of presenteeism, with emphasis on criterion validity.
-
We assessed whether Medicare Part D reduced disparities in access to medication. ⋯ We found that the Part D coverage gap is particularly disruptive to minorities and those living in low-income areas. The implications of this work suggest that protecting the health of vulnerable groups requires more than premium subsidies. Patient education may be a first step, but more substantive improvements in adherence may require changes in healthcare delivery.
-
Comparative Study Observational Study
Decision aids for benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer.
To examine the relationships among implementing decision aids (DAs) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer (PRCA), and treatment rates and costs. ⋯ Implementing patient DAs was associated with lower rates of elective surgery for previously treated BPH and active treatment for localized PRCA; however, implementation of these DAs was not associated with lower costs of care.
-
Comparative Study Observational Study
Race/ethnicity, personal health record access, and quality of care.
To estimate the impact of race/ethnicity and written language preference on registration for a personal health record (PHR) that included emailing providers, viewing lab results, refilling prescriptions, and other functionalities, and the impact of PHR use on quality across racial/ethnic groups with comparable access. ⋯ Nonwhite race/ethnicity and Spanish language preference independently predict poor PHR adoption. PHR use is associated with higher quality healthcare, and when PHR use is equivalent across racial/ethnic groups, so is quality of care.