Methadone proves highly effective in treating opioid dependency, yet its usage is linked to the occurrence Qtc patient assistance of torsade de pointes. While electrocardiography (ECG) has been suggested as a monitoring tool. Its effectiveness remains uncertain, as no ECG-based intervention has been clearly defined. A comprehensive evaluation of an ECG-based cardiac safety program for individuals undergoing methadone maintenance treatment. It was conducted within a singular opioid treatment program in the United States, spanning from September 1, 2009, to August 31, 2011.
The study focused on assessing the time lapse between pre-treatment and subsequent ECG examinations for new program entrants. Among the 531 new participants, 436 (82%) underwent at least one ECG tracing, and 186 (35%) had a pre-treatment ECG performed. The median duration for the follow-up ECG was 43 days, displaying a decreasing trend over time (p<0.0001).
In the subset of 21 individuals exhibiting a QTc-interval surpassing 500 ms. There was a significant reduction in the mean QTc-interval from the peak to the final ECG [-55.5 ms, 95% CI (-77.0 to -33.9 ms), p=0.001]. Notably, 12 out of 21 (57.1%) saw their QTc-intervals drop below the critical 500 ms threshold. Analyzing new entrants with serial ECGs revealed that only the methadone dose (p=0.009) and pre-treatment QTc-interval (p<0.0001) were correlated with the extent of QTc-interval change.
This implies that the incorporation of an ECG-based intervention in methadone maintenance programs can effectively reduce QTc-intervals in high-risk patients. Clinical characteristics alone were deemed insufficient in identifying individuals necessitating ECG screening.
Is QTC a real company?
Methadone, a prolonged-acting μ-opioid agonist, stands out for its high efficacy in addressing opioid dependency. Despite being prescribed to a minority within the opioid drug class, methadone is disproportionately linked to opioid-related fatalities. This heightened lethality is likely attributable to its potency and extended half-life. Notably, methadone hinders the cardiac delayed-rectifier potassium ion-current (Ikr). And is associated with the prolongation of the rate-corrected QT interval (QTc) and torsade de pointes.
Comparatively, on a morphine-equivalent basis, methadone’s mortality rate surpasses that of all other prescription opioids, underscoring its proarrhythmic properties. Recent data from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) spanning 2004–2011 reveals that methadone is the most frequently reported drug associated with QTc prolongation and torsade de pointes.
What is QTC evaluation?
In 2009, the US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Center for Substance Abuse Treatment assembled a cardiac expert panel. Which issued guidelines recommending electrocardiography (ECG) for QTc interval assessment in opioid treatment programs (OTPs). However, controversy surrounding potential cost increases, care barriers, and feasibility concerns impeded widespread adoption. Responding to field feedback, SAMHSA reconvened the expert panel, revising the guideline. Both the updated SAMHSA guidance and the American Association for Treatment of Opioid Dependency QTc Interval Screening Policy. And Guidance Statement advocate ECG solely for patients with multiple clinical risk factors for arrhythmia, despite limited evidence supporting a risk factor-based approach.
The SAMHSA panel expressed reservations about ECG-based interventions limiting access to therapeutic options, potential challenges due to insufficient support staff. And uncertainty regarding the appropriateness of computerized (automated) QTc interval measurements. Crucially, a real-world demonstration of an outpatient intervention to mitigate risk has yet to be described for methadone or other QTc-prolonging drugs. Given this backdrop, we explored the feasibility and impact of implementing a pilot ECG-based cardiac safety program employing computer-generated QTc measurements among methadone maintenance patients.
What is QTC on behalf of VA?
QTC serves as a contractor for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It is specializing in conducting medical examinations on behalf of the VA.
Within the VA, healthcare professionals designated for Compensation and Pension (C&P) examinations have a singular responsibility. To conduct comprehensive assessments for veterans pursuing disability benefits. Their primary task involves evaluating the medical conditions of veterans and documenting their findings in a detailed report. This report is subsequently forwarded to the VA disability rating officer for consideration.
In my personal perspective, receiving an evaluation from a VA medical professional is preferable to undergoing examination by a QTC examiner. I often hear from numerous clients who express dissatisfaction with their experiences during QTC examinations.
While it is essential to maintain a composed demeanor and avoid confrontations with either a QTC examiner or a VA employee. If the examiner makes a factual error, it is advisable to address and correct it promptly. Following the examination, document any concerns or complaints you may have and communicate them to your attorney. This ensures that an accurate and comprehensive record of your evaluation is maintained.
What is QTC business?
The Quote-to-Cash (Q2C / QTC) framework constitutes a comprehensive business process. That encompasses the entire sales cycle – from initiating a price quote to finalizing a deal and securing payment. Particularly favored by Software as a Service (SaaS) enterprises, Q2C proves instrumental in orchestrating and optimizing the sales journey. It is spanning customer acquisition through to revenue acknowledgment.
This method empowers SaaS companies to effectively navigate their sales operations by consolidating key functions. It is including quote management, order processing, contract handling, billing, and payment collection within a unified platform. Typically, the Q2C process is facilitated through a sophisticated software system that seamlessly integrates. With various business applications such as Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), and billing systems.
For SaaS companies, adopting Q2C yields a range of significant advantages. These encompass heightened operational efficiency, enhanced transparency throughout the sales pipeline. And a notable reduction in errors and delays associated with billing and revenue recognition. Furthermore, the Q2C process plays a pivotal role in ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements, thereby mitigating the risk of revenue leakage. In essence, Q2C emerges as a pivotal tool for SaaS enterprises. It is streamlining their sales operations and fortifying their overall business performance.
Who is the CEO of QTc?
In February 2023, Leon Allen assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer at Queensland Treasury Corporation (QTC). Where he holds oversight over QTC’s multi-billion dollar funding program and balance sheet. In this capacity, he manages crucial relationships with institutional investors and government stakeholders. It is aiming to achieve favorable financial outcomes for the State of Queensland. Leveraging extensive experience in public sector financial management. And the institutional banking and markets sector across various disciplines, Mr. Allen brings a wealth of expertise to his leadership role.
Prior to joining QTC, Mr. Allen served as the Under Treasurer at Queensland Treasury, a position in which he played a pivotal role in steering three of the most consequential Queensland State Budgets from 2020 to 2023. His leadership during this period contributed significantly to shaping the state’s robust economic, fiscal, and commercial response to the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Before his tenure as the Under Treasurer of Queensland, Mr. Allen spent four years in the United States as the CEO and Managing Director of the Commonwealth Bank Australia (CBA) in the Americas. His global experience extends to diverse roles in local and international financial markets. It is including key positions with CBA as Managing Director for Government, Health, Education, and Social Infrastructure, as well as serving as the Head of Institutional Banking and Markets in Queensland.
At the outset of his career, Mr. Allen gained valuable experience in both state and federal government agencies. His early roles included positions with the Australian Government’s Department of Finance, Queensland Treasury, and Ergon Energy. With a rich and varied background, Mr. Allen brings a unique perspective and a wealth of knowledge to his role as CEO. It is steering QTC towards continued success in the financial landscape.
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