scholarly journals An Online Survey for Pharmacoepidemiological Investigation (Survey of Non-Medical Use of Prescription Drugs Program): Validation Study

10.2196/15830 ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 21 (10) ◽  
pp. e15830 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joshua Curtis Black ◽  
Karilynn Rockhill ◽  
Alyssa Forber ◽  
Elise Amioka ◽  
K Patrick May ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Drug Use ◽  
Best Practices ◽  
Prescription Drugs ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Methodological Approach ◽  
The United States ◽  
Relative Bias ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Online Panels

Background In rapidly changing fields such as the study of drug use, the need for accurate and timely data is paramount to properly inform policy and intervention decisions. Trends in drug use can change rapidly by month, and using study designs with flexible modules could present advantages. Timely data from online panels can inform proactive interventions against emerging trends, leading to a faster public response. However, threats to validity from using online panels must be addressed to create accurate estimates. Objective The objective of this study was to demonstrate a comprehensive methodological approach that optimizes a nonprobability, online opt-in sample to provide timely, accurate national estimates on prevalence of drug use. Methods The Survey of Non-Medical Use of Prescription Drugs Program from the Researched Abuse, Diversion and Addiction Related Surveillance (RADARS) System is an online, cross-sectional survey on drug use in the United States, and several best practices were implemented. To optimize final estimates, two best practices were investigated in detail: exclusion of respondents showing careless or improbable responding patterns and calibration of weights. The approach in this work was to cumulatively implement each method, which improved key estimates during the third quarter 2018 survey launch. Cutoffs for five exclusion criteria were tested. Using a series of benchmarks, average relative bias and changes in bias were calculated for 33 different weighting variable combinations. Results There were 148,274 invitations sent to panelists, with 40,021 who initiated the survey (26.99%). After eligibility assessment, 20.23% (29,998/148,274) of the completed questionnaires were available for analysis. A total of 0.52% (157/29,998) of respondents were excluded based on careless or improbable responses; however, these exclusions had larger impacts on lower volume drugs. Number of exclusions applied were negatively correlated to total dispensing volume by drug (Spearman ρ=–.88, P<.001). A weighting scheme including three demographic and two health characteristics reduced average relative bias by 31.2%. After weighting, estimates of drug use decreased, reflecting a weighted sample that had healthier benchmarks than the unweighted sample. Conclusions Our study illustrates a new approach to using nonprobability online panels to achieve national prevalence estimates for drug abuse. We were able to overcome challenges with using nonprobability internet samples, including misclassification due to improbable responses. Final drug use and health estimates demonstrated concurrent validity to national probability-based drug use and health surveys. Inclusion of multiple best practices cumulatively improved the estimates generated. This method can bridge the information gap when there is a need for prompt, accurate national data.

scholarly journals Similarities and Differences in COVID-19 Awareness, Concern, and Symptoms by Race and Ethnicity in the United States: Cross-Sectional Survey (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jeb Jones ◽  
Patrick S Sullivan ◽  
Travis H Sanchez ◽  
Jodie L Guest ◽  
Eric W Hall ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Race And Ethnicity ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Statistical Tests ◽  
The United States ◽  
Control Measures ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Similarities And Differences ◽  
Hispanic White

BACKGROUND Existing health disparities based on race and ethnicity in the United States are contributing to disparities in morbidity and mortality during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. We conducted an online survey of American adults to assess similarities and differences by race and ethnicity with respect to COVID-19 symptoms, estimates of the extent of the pandemic, knowledge of control measures, and stigma. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe similarities and differences in COVID-19 symptoms, knowledge, and beliefs by race and ethnicity among adults in the United States. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey from March 27, 2020 through April 1, 2020. Participants were recruited on social media platforms and completed the survey on a secure web-based survey platform. We used chi-square tests to compare characteristics related to COVID-19 by race and ethnicity. Statistical tests were corrected using the Holm Bonferroni correction to account for multiple comparisons. RESULTS A total of 1435 participants completed the survey; 52 (3.6%) were Asian, 158 (11.0%) were non-Hispanic Black, 548 (38.2%) were Hispanic, 587 (40.9%) were non-Hispanic White, and 90 (6.3%) identified as other or multiple races. Only one symptom (sore throat) was found to be different based on race and ethnicity (<i>P</i>=.003); this symptom was less frequently reported by Asian (3/52, 5.8%), non-Hispanic Black (9/158, 5.7%), and other/multiple race (8/90, 8.9%) participants compared to those who were Hispanic (99/548, 18.1%) or non-Hispanic White (95/587, 16.2%). Non-Hispanic White and Asian participants were more likely to estimate that the number of current cases was at least 100,000 (<i>P</i>=.004) and were more likely to answer all 14 COVID-19 knowledge scale questions correctly (Asian participants, 13/52, 25.0%; non-Hispanic White participants, 180/587, 30.7%) compared to Hispanic (108/548, 19.7%) and non-Hispanic Black (25/158, 15.8%) participants. CONCLUSIONS We observed differences with respect to knowledge of appropriate methods to prevent infection by the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Deficits in knowledge of proper control methods may further exacerbate existing race/ethnicity disparities. Additional research is needed to identify trusted sources of information in Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black communities and create effective messaging to disseminate correct COVID-19 prevention and treatment information.

National Multispecialty Survey Results: Comparing Morbidity and Mortality Conference Practices within and outside Otolaryngology

2017 ◽  
Vol 158 (2) ◽  
pp. 273-279 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karthik Balakrishnan ◽  
Ellis M. Arjmand ◽  
Brian Nussenbaum ◽  
Carl Snyderman
Keyword(s):  
Best Practices ◽  
Adverse Events ◽  
Patient Care ◽  
Response Rate ◽  
Core Competencies ◽  
The United States ◽  
Morbidity And Mortality ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Standard Case

Objective The objective is to describe variations in the otolaryngology morbidity and mortality (M&M) conference and to compare with other specialties. Design Cross-sectional survey. Setting The setting included otolaryngology departments across the United States and nonotolaryngology medical and surgical departments at 4 academic medical centers. Subjects and Methods Participants were members of a national otolaryngology quality/safety network and nonotolaryngology quality leaders at 4 large academic hospitals. Surveys were administered January 2017. Respondents described M&M conference practices, goals, and educational role. Results Twenty-eight of 39 individuals representing 28 institutions completed the otolaryngology survey (72% response rate). Of 197 individuals, 60 (30% response rate) representing 11 surgical and 20 nonsurgical specialties completed the comparison survey. Twenty-seven of 28 otolaryngologists (46 of 60 nonotolaryngologists) worked in academic settings. All otolaryngology programs conducted an M&M conference: 54% discussed all adverse events and errors; 32% used standard case selection processes; 70% used structured discussion, usually root cause analysis (64%); and 32% classified harm level. In comparison with other specialties, otolaryngology programs were more likely to discuss all adverse events and errors ( P = .01). Most conferences led to quality projects and intrainstitutional communication: 22% communicated to patients and families; 73% of respondents thought that M&M conferences should be standardized or use “best practices.” In both surveys, improving patient care was rated the conference’s most important function, followed by trainee education and culture change. Patient care and practice-based learning were rated the most relevant Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Core Competencies in both surveys. Conclusions Academic otolaryngology M&M practices generally align with other specialties, but specifics vary widely, making collaborative quality improvement challenging. Educational and administrative priorities cross specialties. Most respondents thought that standardization and best practices are worthwhile. Nonacademic practice data are needed.

scholarly journals Cross-Sectional Survey Of Fertility Knowledge In Obstetrics And Gynecology Residents

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leah May Roberts ◽  
Rashmi Kudesia ◽  
Huaqing Zhao ◽  
Shaliz Dolan ◽  
Marisa Rose
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Assisted Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Knowledge Score ◽  
The United States ◽  
Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Obstetrics And Gynecology ◽  
Success Rates ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Level Of Training

Abstract PURPOSE: To evaluate fertility knowledge among current Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) residents using a recently published validated instrument, the Fertility and Infertility Treatment Knowledge Score (FIT-KS).METHODS: OB-GYN residents in the United States were recruited through an email to all residency coordinators nationwide. They were asked to voluntarily respond to a short questionnaire including demographic information and the FIT-KS instrument, through an online survey platform.RESULTS: The sample was 91% female, with 69% between the ages of 26 and 30. Participants evenly represented all four years of training. Mean FIT-KS score was 21.2 (73% correct). No statistically significant differences were noted across the level of training. Several knowledge gaps were noted. Residents could define the common assisted reproductive technologies; however overestimated their success rates per cycle. CONCLUSIONS: Substantial gaps exist in fertility knowledge among OB-GYN residents, with understanding of male fertility and success rates of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) being particularly limited. Knowledge of fertility does not change throughout residency training, demonstrating consistent gaps in fertility knowledge. Knowledge during post graduate year (PGY)-1 year is consistent with mean scores found in prior research in Internal Medicine residents (65%), as well as a cohort of female medical students and obstetrics and gynecology residents and fellows (64.9%)(1, 2).

scholarly journals A Cross-Sectional Survey Of Fertility Knowledge In Obstetrics And Gynecology Residents

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leah May Roberts ◽  
Rashmi Kudesia ◽  
Huaqing Zhao ◽  
Shaliz Dolan ◽  
Marisa Rose
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Assisted Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Knowledge Score ◽  
The United States ◽  
Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Obstetrics And Gynecology ◽  
Success Rates ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Level Of Training

Abstract BACKGROUND: To evaluate fertility knowledge among current Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) residents using a recently published validated instrument, the Fertility and Infertility Treatment Knowledge Score (FIT-KS).METHODS: OB-GYN residents in the United States were recruited through an email to all residency coordinators nationwide. They were asked to voluntarily respond to a short questionnaire including demographic information and the FIT-KS instrument, through an online survey platform. Of approximately 5,000 OB-GYN residents in the country, 177 responded. RESULTS: The sample was 91% female, with 69% between the ages of 26 and 30. Participants evenly represented all four years of training. Mean FIT-KS score was 21.2 (73% correct; range 17-26). No statistically significant differences were noted across the level of training. Several knowledge gaps were noted. Residents could define the common assisted reproductive technologies; however overestimated their success rates per cycle. CONCLUSIONS: Substantial gaps exist in fertility knowledge among OB-GYN residents, with understanding of male fertility and success rates of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) being particularly limited. Knowledge of fertility does not change throughout residency training, demonstrating consistent gaps in fertility knowledge. Knowledge during post graduate year (PGY)-1 year is consistent with mean scores found in prior research in Internal Medicine residents (65%), as well as a cohort of female medical students and obstetrics and gynecology residents and fellows (64.9%)(1, 2).

scholarly journals Perceptions of the Podiatric Medicine Profession: A Survey of Medical Students in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

2020 ◽  
Vol 110 (5) ◽  
Author(s):  
Samantha A. Miner ◽  
Tracey C. Vlahovic
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Medical Students ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Medical Training ◽  
Interprofessional Relations ◽  
The United States ◽  
Scope Of Practice ◽  
Survey Study ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional

Background Medical students (MSs) in allopathic and osteopathic medical programs may not be adequately exposed to the role of podiatric physicians and surgeons in health care. We explored perceptions of the specialty field of podiatric medicine from the perspective of MSs in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, area. Methods In this cross-sectional survey study, responses regarding podiatric education and scope of practice were collected via a 16-question, self-reported, anonymous online survey distributed to MSs at one osteopathic and three allopathic medical schools in the Philadelphia area. Inferences and conclusions were drawn from the percentages of respondents. Statistical analyses for school of attendance, year of study, and physician relative subgroups were performed. Results The 129 survey responses obtained revealed misunderstandings regarding podiatric education and training. Only 45.7% correctly answered that podiatric medical students do not take the United States Medical Licensing Examination. The results also showed the perception of podiatry in a positive light, with approximately 80% of respondents agreeing that the term doctor is applicable when referring to a podiatrist. Respondents with a physician relative were more likely to rate podiatry's role in health care higher on a scale from 0 (inessential) to 5 (equivalent to MDs/DOs) than those without a physician relative. Conclusions The results of this preliminary survey were generally positive and optimistic while also identifying some misconceptions regarding MS perceptions of podiatric medical training and scope of practice. Further studies are needed to evaluate perceptions of podiatry from the perspective of other members of the health-care team to improve interprofessional relations and understanding.

scholarly journals Using the Health Belief Model to design a questionnaire aimed at measuring people's perceptions regarding COVID-19 immunity certificates

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Corina Elena Niculaescu ◽  
Isabel Karen Sassoon ◽  
Irma Cecilia Landa-Avila ◽  
Ozlem Colak ◽  
Gyuchan Thomas Jun ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Health Belief Model ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Methodological Approach ◽  
Health Belief ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Perceived Severity ◽  
The Uk ◽  
Belief Model ◽  
The Health Belief Model

The present short communication paper describes the methodological approach of applying the Health Belief Model to the use COVID-19 immunity certificates in the UK. We designed an online survey including an adaptation of the following Health Belief Model constructs: perceived COVID-19 susceptibility, perceived COVID-19 severity, perceived benefits of using immunity certificates, perceived barriers from using immunity certificates, perceived severity of not using immunity certificates, and perceived vaccination views. The online cross-sectional survey conducted on the 3rd of August 2021 gathered responses from 534 participants aged 18 and older, representative of the UK population in terms of gender, age, and ethnicity.

scholarly journals A Cross-Sectional Survey of Fertility Knowledge in Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leah May Roberts ◽  
Rashmi Kudesia ◽  
Huaqing Zhao ◽  
Shaliz Dolan ◽  
Marisa Rose
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Assisted Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Knowledge Score ◽  
The United States ◽  
Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Obstetrics And Gynecology ◽  
Success Rates ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Level Of Training

Abstract PURPOSE: To evaluate fertility knowledge among current Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) residents using a recently published validated instrument, the Fertility and Infertility Treatment Knowledge Score (FIT-KS).METHODS: OB-GYN residents in the United States were recruited through an email to all residency directors nationwide. They were asked to voluntarily respond to a short questionnaire including demographic information and the FIT-KS instrument, through an online survey platform. Of approximately 5,000 OB-GYN residents in the country, 177 responded. RESULTS: The sample was 91% female, with 69% between the ages of 26 and 30. Participants evenly represented all four years of training. Mean FIT-KS score was 21.2 (73% correct; range 17-26). No statistically significant differences were noted across the level of training (p=0.23). Several knowledge gaps were noted. Residents could define the common assisted reproductive technologies; however, overestimated their success rates per cycle. CONCLUSIONS: Substantial gaps exist in fertility knowledge among OB-GYN residents, with understanding of male fertility and success rates of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) being particularly limited. Knowledge of fertility does not change throughout residency training, demonstrating consistent gaps in fertility knowledge. Knowledge during post graduate year (PGY)-1 year is consistent with mean scores found in prior research in Internal Medicine residents (65%), as well as a cohort of female medical students and obstetrics and gynecology residents and fellows (64.9%)(1, 2).

scholarly journals Practice patterns in the management of myasthenia gravis: a cross-sectional survey of neurologists in the United States

2021 ◽  
Vol 2 (5) ◽  
Author(s):  
Vera Bril ◽  
Jacqueline Palace ◽  
Tahseen Mozaffar ◽  
Deborah Gelinas ◽  
Edward Brauer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Myasthenia Gravis ◽  
Clinical Judgment ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Immunoglobulin Therapy ◽  
The United States ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Chi Square ◽  
International Consensus ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Significance Level

Background: Management of myasthenia gravis (MG), a rare immunoglobulin G autoantibody–mediated neuromuscular junction disorder, is driven by physician experience. To gain insight into current practices and physician needs, neurologists’ use of guidelines and disease activity evaluations to manage MG was assessed. Methods: In November and December of 2020, a quantitative, cross-sectional, 51-item, online survey–based study was used to collect data from 100 community neurologists, from 31 US states, who treat MG. Differences across ratio variables were analyzed via Chi-square and t tests, at a significance level of P<0.05. Results: Of respondents, 76% reported using clinical judgment rather than guidelines to inform treatment decisions, and only 29% reported awareness of the updated 2020 International Consensus Guidance for Management of Myasthenia Gravis. Treatment patterns reported include use of prednisone-equivalent corticosteroid doses ≤10 mg/day for ≥6 months (76% of respondents). When corticosteroids are contraindicated or after failure of an initial nonsteroidal immunosuppressant therapy (NSIST), immunoglobulin therapy is the respondents’ preferred initial treatment in patients with acetylcholine receptor antibody–positive generalized MG (vs a second NSIST). Respondents expressed interest in more guidance on crisis management, initiating/titrating maintenance medications, and managing patients with comorbidities. Conclusions: Respondents to this survey reported varied approaches to MG management and, in some clinical settings, heavier reliance on clinical judgment than on available consensus-based guidance. Also observed was potential underutilization of NSISTs in patients for whom corticosteroids are contraindicated, with reliance, instead, on immunoglobulin.

scholarly journals A cross-sectional survey of fertility knowledge in obstetrics and gynecology residents

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Leah May Roberts ◽  
Rashmi Kudesia ◽  
Huaqing Zhao ◽  
Shaliz Dolan ◽  
Marisa Rose
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Assisted Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Knowledge Score ◽  
The United States ◽  
Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Obstetrics And Gynecology ◽  
Success Rates ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Level Of Training

Abstract Background To evaluate fertility knowledge among current Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) residents using a recently published validated instrument, the Fertility and Infertility Treatment Knowledge Score (FIT-KS). Methods OB-GYN residents in the United States were recruited through an email to all residency coordinators nationwide. They were asked to voluntarily respond to a short questionnaire including demographic information and the FIT-KS instrument, through an online survey platform. Of approximately 5000 OB-GYN residents in the country, 177 responded. Results The sample was 91% female, with 69% between the ages of 26 and 30. Participants evenly represented all 4 years of training. Mean FIT-KS score was 21.2 (73% correct; range 17–26). No statistically significant differences were noted across the level of training. Several knowledge gaps were noted. Residents could define the common assisted reproductive technologies; however overestimated their success rates per cycle. Conclusions Substantial gaps exist in fertility knowledge among OB-GYN residents, with understanding of male fertility and success rates of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) being particularly limited. Knowledge of fertility does not change throughout residency training, demonstrating consistent gaps in fertility knowledge. Knowledge during post graduate year (PGY)-1 year is consistent with mean scores found in prior research in Internal Medicine residents (65%), as well as a cohort of female medical students and obstetrics and gynecology residents and fellows (64.9%) (Fertil Steril 108:711-7, 2017; Fertil Steril 110:e239, 2018).

Integrating health disparities content into health informatics courses: a cross-sectional survey study and recommendations (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Uba Backonja ◽  
Annie T. Chen ◽  
Kenrick Cato
Keyword(s):  
Health Disparities ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Training Programs ◽  
The United States ◽  
Survey Study ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Body Type ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Informatics Training

BACKGROUND Research suggests that while informatics solutions can help understand and address health disparities, there is potential for solutions to exacerbate existing or create new health disparities. To help future research and development of equitable solutions, we need to look upstream at how disparities are being integrated into informatics training programs. Doing so provides understanding and informs development of curricula that provide a foundation for future informaticists to build solutions that are ethical and equitable. OBJECTIVE To examine how the topic of health disparities is integrated into informatics courses. METHODS This cross-sectional, descriptive study took place April-October 2019 in the United States. Individuals teaching courses in informatics programs were recruited via listservs and email to complete an online survey. Instructors were eligible if they integrated disparities content into their informatics courses. Survey questions examined administrative aspects of the course (e.g., class size, mode of teaching, discipline of enrolled students) and disparities content integrated into the course (e.g., social determinants of health [SDOH] covered, how students were assessed on disparities related content). Participants also reported challenges they faced integrating disparities content into their courses. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics; qualitative data were analyzed using inductive coding. RESULTS Invitations were sent to 141 individuals, including contacts for the National Library of Medicine (NLM) biomedical informatics training programs, and 11 listservs. We obtained data for 24 informatics courses that contained health disparities content. Courses were taught primarily in graduate programs (n=21, 87.5%) in informatics (n=9, 33.3%), nursing (n=7, 25.9%), and information science (n=6, 22.2%). Of the 24 courses, six (25.0%) were taught in an NLM training program. The most frequently covered SDOHs were socioeconomic status and race/ethnicity (both n=21, 87.5%); the least frequently covered were body type (n=0), low resource areas (n=2, 8.3%), and urban residences (n=3, 12.5%). Instructors noted three main types of challenges when integrating disparities related content into their courses: the need for additional resources, student-related challenges, and topic sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS Our sample included 24 informatics courses -- fewer than we had hoped -- that integrated disparities content; these courses spanned disciplines and varied in terms of the topics covered. Based on our findings, we provide recommendations for the intentional development of informatics programs to support the training of future generations of informaticians with foundational and transnational knowledge in health disparities so they are well-equipped to develop equitable informatics solutions. CLINICALTRIAL This study was not a clinical trial.

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