Feasibility Survey for a Food Allergy Control Tool

Rationale: There is currently no validated clinical assessment tool for the management of food allergy. This study aimed to determine whether a Food Allergy Control Tool (FACT) fulfills a clinical need, whether primary care providers (PCPs) and allergists would use a FACT, and what content should be included in a FACT.

Methods: 53 allergists and 57 pediatricians from various geographic regions and clinical practice settings were invited to complete an anonymous, 13-question online survey. The survey contained a sample FACT that assessed potential domains of food allergy control such as reaction rate/severity, emergency medication/plan, reducing cross-contamination, and quality of life concerns.

Results: The response rate was 62% for allergists and 40% for pediatricians. All responders indicated that they would use the FACT in some capacity. 45% of allergists and 22% of pediatricians would use the FACT for all food allergy (FA) patients, while 33% and 43% respectively, would use the FACT for most FA patients. Allergists and pediatricians felt the FACT would be useful for allergists (85%, 87%), patients (91%, 78%) and PCPs (55%, 70%). Both groups felt the FACT should include the number/severity of reactions, the use of emergency medication/anaphylaxis plan, and accidental ingestion precautions. Allergists also prioritized psychosocial concerns. Pediatricians also prioritized comorbid conditions.

Conclusions: Our pilot survey indicates that allergists and pediatricians would utilize a FACT and perceive a benefit of such an instrument. The FACT should assess reaction prevention/management including emergency medications and an anaphylaxis plan. These results suggest the need for a standardized, validated FACT.