Predictors of successful telephone follow-up in a multicenter study of infants with severe bronchiolitis

Abstract

Purpose: To identify the characteristics that predict successful telephone follow-up with parents of infants with severe bronchiolitis.

Methods: We analyzed data from a 17-center, prospective cohort study of infants (age <1 year) hospitalized with bronchiolitis during three consecutive fall/winter seasons. Participant contact information and clinical data were collected during the index hospitalization. Parents were called at 6-month intervals (based on the child's age) after discharge to assess respiratory problems. The primary outcome was age 12-month telephone interview status. Participants were classified as unreachable after 28 days of unsuccessful attempts.

Results: 798 of 916 children (87%) completed the age 12-month telephone interview. In unadjusted analyses, factors associated with successful follow-up included: private health insurance, annual household income $60,000 or more, and residing in the Northeast, Midwest, or West. Follow-up was less common among non-Hispanic blacks, Hispanics, and households with 3 or more children. In multivariable analyses, follow-up was more likely among parents of females, and, compared with the South, in the Northeast and Midwest (all P < .05). Compared with non-Hispanic whites, non-Hispanic blacks and Hispanics remained less likely to complete the interview as did households with 3 or more children (all P < .05).

Conclusion: Sociodemographic and geographic factors predict successful telephone follow-up, even among parents of infants with severe illness.

Keywords: Bronchiolitis; Cohort studies; Follow-up; Infant; Race; Socioeconomic status.

Figure 1

Calling protocol for every follow-up interview, conducted in 6 month intervals from age 6 months onward