This study characterizes the prevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection detected on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) screening of a large homeless shelter population in Boston prompted by an outbreak of COVID-19 cases among shelter residents.

Objective The objective of the current study was to examine the feasibility of telemedicine vs. telephone for the delivery of a multidisciplinary weekly family based behavioral group intervention to treat pediatric obesity delivered to families living in rural areas using a randomized controlled trial methodology. Methods 103 rural children and their families were recruited. Feasibility measures included participant satisfaction, session attendance and retention. Treatment outcome measures included child BMIz, Parent BMI, 24-hour dietary recalls, accelerometer data, Child Behavior Checklist and the Behavioral Pediatrics Feeding Assessment Scale. Results Participants were highly satisfied with the intervention both via telemedicine and via telephone. Completion rates were much higher than for other pediatric obesity intervention programs, and both methodologies were highly feasible. There were no differences in telemedicine and telephone groups on primary outcomes. Conclusion Both telemedicine and telephone intervention appear to be feasible and acceptable methods of delivering pediatric obesity treatment to rural children.

Women and patients who reported increased treatment satisfaction and reduced burden to others were more adherent to oral chemotherapy. Interventions that help patients improve communication with clinicians and reduce burden may optimize oral chemotherapy adherence.