Physician Adherence to Treat-to-Target and Practice Guidelines in Rheumatoid Arthritis.

ABSTRACT: Principles of treat-to-target (T2T) have been widely adopted in both multinational and regional guidelines for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Several questionnaire studies among physicians and real-world data have suggested that an evidence-practice gap exists in RA management. Investigating physician adherence to T2T, which requires a process measure, is difficult. Different practice patterns among physicians are observed, while adherence to protocolized treatment declines over time. Rheumatologist awareness, agreement, and claims of adherence to T2T guidelines are not always consistent with medical records. Comorbidities, a difficult disease course, communication barriers, and individual preferences may hinder an intensive, proactive treatment stance. Interpreting deviations from protocolize

SUBMITTER: Batko B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6780913 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature