Comparing the use of aggressive end-of life care among frail and non-frail patients with cancer using a claims-based frailty index.

Introduction: Despite mounting consensus that end-of-life (EOL) care for patients with cancer should focus on improving quality of life, many patients continue to receive aggressive, disease-oriented treatment until death. Within this group, patients with increased frailty may be at higher risk of adverse treatment-related outcomes. We therefore examined the relationship between degree of frailty and receipt of aggressive EOL care among Medicare-insured patients with cancer in Ohio.

Nationwide disparities in transportation related delays to care experienced by children with frequent ear infections.

Background: Acute otitis media (AOM), or ear infection, is the most common reason for pediatric medical visits in the United States [1]. Additionally, transportation barriers are a significant driver of missed and delayed care across medical specialties [2,3]. Yet, the role of transportation barriers in impeding access for children with frequent ear infections (FEI) has not been investigated.

Sociodemographic disparities in the use of health information technology by a national sample of head and neck cancer patients.

Background: Quantifying disparities in health information technology (HIT) use among head and neck cancer (HNC) patients may help clinicians reduce care gaps and improve outcomes.

Methods: Relationships between HIT usage and sociodemographic characteristics were studied for adults with HNC between 2011 and 2018 through a retrospective analysis of the US National Health Interview Survey.

Results: Multivariate logistic regression indicated HIT usage disparities based on race, age, educational attainment, and insurance status.

Prevalence, trends, and demographic characteristics associated with self-reported financial stress among head and neck cancer patients in the United States of America.

Background: Understanding the economic burden imposed by head and neck cancer diagnoses essential to contextualize healthcare decision-making for these patients.

Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of the US National Health Interview Survey was performed between 2013 and 2018. Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of adult head and neck cancer patients were analyzed in relation to survey responses related to financial stress factors.