IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF CARE FOR PATIENTS WITH CSU: STUDY DESIGN AND PATIENT BASELINE CHARACTERISTICS

Abstract

Introduction

Management and care of patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is not always optimal, with diagnostic delays, dissatisfaction with care, and lack of adherence to international guidelines all impacting CSU management. Here, we propose a real-world study design to develop a greater understanding of factors affecting the management of CSU, with the goal of improving the quality of care for patients.

Methods

In Part 1 of the study, retrospective analysis will be conducted on longitudinal patient data (2012 to 2022) from the Endeavor Health System electronic medical record (EMR) to identify patient risk factors for CSU severity, duration, and relapse, as well as predictors of treatment response for CSU. In Part 2, physicians will be interviewed to assess their knowledge and perceptions of CSU guidelines and management and use of patient-reported outcomes. In Part 3, quality improvement initiatives will be developed, including education for physicians and new clinical workflows and decision tools for CSU management.

Results

For Part 1 of the study, baseline characteristics of patients with CSU from the Endeavor Health System EMR are presented in the Table. Over two-thirds of patients were female with a mean age of 35 years. The most common comorbidities were allergic rhinitis and asthma. About 40% of patients visited a physician with an allergy/immunology primary specialty.

Conclusions

A greater understanding of patient characteristics, physician perspectives, and avenues to improve quality of care will assist physicians in providing better care for patients with CSU and will ultimately improve clinical outcomes and quality of life for patients.