Levothyroxine Dose Changes and Hypothyroid Patient Satisfaction-Results of the CONTROL TS Study
Year: 2017
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction:The effects of levothyroxine dose adjustments on patient satisfaction with drug therapy and physician care have not been described previously.Primary Objective: To measure those effects among: patients who had no changes in levothyroxine dosage within the past year (n = 150), and patients who had ≥ 2 changes in levothyroxine dosage within the past year (n = 150).Methods: Eligible participants completed a 21-question online survey that employed ThyTSQ, a scientifically-validated instrument designed to assess patient satisfaction with: therapy performance and convenience, and the perceived quality of care provided by physicians.Between-group statistical testing was determined using a Chi-square test to compare proportions.Results: Compared with those reporting no levothyroxine dose changes in the past year, patients reporting ≥ 2 dose changes were significantly less satisfied with their treatment and treating physician: these patients had lower mean ThyTSQ-Present scores (30.1 vs. 33.2;P=.002); were less likely to be "very satisfied" with their treatment and dose (22% vs. 39%; P=.001); and were less likely to feel their hypothyroid symptoms were well controlled (15% vs. 34%; P<.001).Patients experiencing ≥ 2 dose changes were also less likely to be "very satisfied" with how their physician dealt with their condition since its diagnosis (21% vs. 34%; P=.015), and were more likely to have changed physicians in the past year (23% vs. 14%; P=.054).Conclusion: Results showed a strong correlation between the frequency of levothyroxine dose changes and reduced patient satisfaction with treatment, treatment convenience, symptom control and physician performance.
Source: Annals of Thyroid Research
Author: McMillan M
Language: English
Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2939952333