In a retrospective cohort study, researchers examined both the validity and applicability of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) treatment ratio (CTR) as a stand-in marker for COPD risk of exacerbation for quality measurement use. Researchers used administrative claims from 2016 to 2019 from Optum Clinformatics Data Mart to assess the CTR throughout a baseline period of 12 months. Exacerbations were measured the year after. To assess the link between CTR values and COPD exacerbations, logistic regression models were used.
A total of 132,960 patients were included in the analysis, with 79.5% being Medicare Advantage beneficiaries. The mean age among individuals was 69.6 years. It was found that higher CTR values were considerably linked to a decreased risk of any, moderate, and severe exacerbations in the whole population, and also when classified by type of insurance. The researchers concluded that CTR was a valid measure for the exacerbation risk of COPD. They note that, because disparities are present in the prevalence, treatment, and outcomes of COPD, additional studies may be needed to to measure functions in different subgroups.
Reference: Parikh MA, Burbage SC, Gabriel MH, Shirley BE, Campbell PJ. COPD treatment ratio: a measure for improving COPD population health. Am J Manag Care. 2024;30(9):e251-e257. Published 2024 Sep 1. doi:10.37765/ajmc.2024.89603
Link: https://www.ajmc.com/view/copd-treatment-ratio-a-measure-for-improving-copd-population-health
