Risk of Thromboembolic Events Following COVID-19 Diagnosis Without Hospitalization.

INTRODUCTION: Current research shows no increased risk of thromboembolic events with mild COVID-19 but does not account for comorbidities. The aim of this study was to examine the incidence of thromboembolic events, including pulmonary embolism, cerebral infarction, and deep vein thrombosis, in nonhospitalized patients diagnosed with COVID-19 while accounting for comorbidities such as diabetes, asthma, COPD and cancer. METHODS: We completed a large retrospective observational analysis of adult patients within a large urban health system. RESULTS: Using a logit framework (with and without propensity score weighting), there was no increased risk of thromboembolic events among patients positive for SARS-CoV-2 who did not require hospitalization for COVID-19. CONCLUSION: This data suggest prophylactic anticoagulation is likely not warranted in the outpatient setting.

A New Pandemic of Loneliness.

Loneliness is the subjective feeling people experience when they feel less socially connected to others than they desire. Beyond the impact to mental health and well-being, loneliness is linked to detrimental health outcomes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing and isolation requirements likely exacerbated the prevalence of loneliness, which was reported by 1 in 5 American adults before the pandemic. Whether it be through in-person or virtual visits, primary care clinicians have tools and expertise to screen patients for loneliness, provide them supportive consultations, and refer persons with loneliness to helpful resources. As the societal changes from the pandemic continue to evolve, we recommend that primary care providers include loneliness screens as part of their standard workflow and consult with patients about effective interventions to reduce loneliness.