Early hospital readmission is a predictor of one-year mortality in community-dwelling older Medicare beneficiaries

Physician Financial Incentives to Reduce Unplanned Hospital Readmissions: A Propensity Score Weighted Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Unplanned hospital readmissions are associated with adverse patient outcomes and substantial healthcare costs. It remains unknown whether physician financial incentives for enhanced discharge planning can reduce readmission risk.

METHODS

In 2012, policymakers in British Columbia, Canada, introduced a $75 fee-for-service physician payment to incentivize enhanced discharge planning (the "G78717" fee code). We used population-based administrative health data to compare outcomes among G78717-exposed and G78717-unexposed patients. We identified all nonelective hospitalizations potentially eligible for the incentive over a 5-year study interval. We examined the composite risk of unplanned readmission or death and total direct healthcare costs accrued within 30 days of discharge. Propensity score overlap weights and adjustment were used to account for differences between exposed and unexposed patients.

RESULTS

A total of 5262 of 24,787 G78717-exposed and 28,096 of 136,541 unexposed patients experienced subsequent unplanned readmission or death, suggesting exposure to the G78717 incentive did not reduce the risk of adverse outcomes after discharge (crude percent, 21.1% vs 20.6%; adjusted odds ratio, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.93-1.01; P = .23). Mean direct healthcare costs within 30 days of discharge were $3082 and $2993, respectively (adjusted cost ratio, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.95-1.05; P = .93).

CONCLUSIONS

A physician financial incentive that encouraged enhanced hospital discharge planning did not reduced the risk of readmission or death, and did not significantly decrease direct healthcare costs. Policymakers should consider the baseline prevalence and effectiveness of enhanced discharge planning, the magnitude and design of financial incentives, and whether auditing of incentivized activities is required when implementing similar incentives elsewhere.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov ID, NCT03256734.

Paramedic-Assisted Community Evaluation After Discharge: The PACED Intervention

OBJECTIVES

Early rehospitalization of frail older adults after hospital discharge is harmful to patients and challenging to hospitals. Mobile integrated health (MIH) programs may be an effective solution for delivering community-based transitional care. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility and implementation of an MIH transitional care program.

DESIGN

Pilot clinical trial of a transitional home visit conducted by MIH paramedics within 72 hours of hospital discharge.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Patients aged ≥65 years discharged from an urban hospital with a system-adapted eFrailty index ≥0.24 were eligible to participate.

METHODS

Participants were enrolled after hospital discharge. Demographic and clinical information were recorded at enrollment and 30 days after discharge from the electronic health record. Data from a comparison group of patients excluded from enrollment due to geographical location was also abstracted. Primary outcomes were intervention feasibility and implementation, which were reported descriptively. Exploratory clinical outcomes included emergency department (ED) visits and rehospitalization within 30 days. Categorical and continuous group comparisons were conducted using χ2 tests and Kruskal-Wallis testing. Binomial regression was used for comparative outcomes.

RESULTS

One hundred of 134 eligible individuals (74.6%) were enrolled (median age 81, 64% female). Forty-seven participants were included in the control group (median age 80, 55.2% female). The complete protocol was performed in 92 (92.0%) visits. Paramedics identified acute clinical problems in 23 (23.0%) visits, requested additional services for participants during 34 (34.0%) encounters, and detected medication errors during 34 (34.0%). The risk of 30-day rehospitalization was lower in the Paramedic-Assisted Community Evaluation after Discharge (PACED) group compared with the control (RR, 0.40; CI, 0.19-0.84; P = .03); there was a trend toward decreased risk of 30-day ED visits (RR, 0.61; CI, 0.37-1.37; P = .23).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

This pilot study of an MIH transition care program was feasible with high protocol fidelity. It yields preliminary evidence demonstrating a decreased risk of rehospitalization in frail older adults.

High risk of rehospitalization within 1 year following a pulmonary embolism-insights from the Danish nationwide registries from 2000-2020

AIM

To identify the absolute risk, causes, and factors associated with rehospitalization within 1 year of discharge with a pulmonary embolism (PE).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using the Danish nationwide registries, all patients admitted with a first-time PE between 2000 and 2020 and discharged alive were included. Subsequent hospitalizations were categorized and crude cumulative incidences were used to estimate the absolute risk (AR) of any rehospitalization and specific causes of rehospitalizations. Risk factors for rehospitalization were investigated using cause specific Cox regression models.A total of 55 201 patients were identified. The median age of the study population was 70 years (inter quartile range: 59;79), and the most prevalent comorbidities were cancer (29.3%) and ischemic heart disease (12.7%). The 1-year AR of any rehospitalization after discharge with a PE was 48.6% (95% confidence interval (CI); 48.2%-48.8%). The most common cause for being rehospitalized was due to respiratory disease [1-year AR: 9.5% (95% CI: 9.3%-9.8%)], followed by cardiovascular disease [1-year AR: 6.3% (95% CI: 5.9%-6.5%)], cancer [1-year AR: 6.0% (95% CI: 5.8%-6.4%)], venous thromboembolism [1-year AR: 5.2% (95% CI: 5.0%-5.2%)], and symptom diagnoses [1-year AR: 5.2% (95% CI: 5.0%-5.4%)]. Factors that were associated with an increased risk of rehospitalization were cancer, liver disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic kidney disease, and immobilization.

CONCLUSION

Patients with PE have a high risk of rehospitalization, with almost half of patients being rehospitalized within 1 year. Identification of high-risk patients may help target interventions aiming at reducing the risk of rehospitalization.

Relationship between Anemia and Readmission among Older Patients in Rural Community Hospitals: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Readmission rates among older adults are a growing concern, and the association of readmission with anemia and the potential benefits of a systematic assessment and intervention remain unclear. This study investigated the association between anemia and readmission within 28 and 90 days in an older population. Data from 1280 patients admitted to the Department of General Medicine of Unnan City Hospital between April 2020 and December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Variables such as anemia status, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) score, Functional Independence Measure (FIM) score, and dependent status were evaluated. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the associations between 28-day and 90-day readmissions. The average age was 84.9 years, and the prevalence of anemia was 36.4%. The readmission rates within 28 and 90 days were 10.4% and 19.1%, respectively. Anemia was significantly associated with readmission in both periods (28-day adjusted odds ratio, 2.28; 90-day adjusted odds ratio, 1.65). CCI score, FIM score, and dependent status were also identified as significant factors. Anemia is significantly associated with short- and medium-term readmissions in older patients. Addressing anemia, along with other identified factors, may help reduce readmission rates.

Outcomes of early hospital readmission after kidney transplantation: Perspectives from a Canadian transplant centre

BACKGROUND

Early hospital readmissions (EHRs) after kidney transplantation range in incidence from 18%-47% and are important and substantial healthcare quality indicators. EHR can adversely impact clinical outcomes such as graft function and patient mortality as well as healthcare costs. EHRs have been extensively studied in American healthcare systems, but these associations have not been explored within a Canadian setting. Due to significant differences in the delivery of healthcare and patient outcomes, results from American studies cannot be readily applicable to Canadian populations. A better understanding of EHR can facilitate improved discharge planning and long-term outpatient management post kidney transplant.

AIM

To explore the burden of EHR on kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) and the Canadian healthcare system in a large transplant centre.

METHODS

This single centre cohort study included 1564 KTRs recruited from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2017, with a 1-year follow-up. We defined EHR as hospitalizations within 30 d or 90 d of transplant discharge, excluding elective procedures. Multivariable Cox and linear regression models were used to examine EHR, late hospital readmissions (defined as hospitalizations within 31-365 d for 30-d EHR and within 91-365 d for 90-d EHR), and outcomes including graft function and patient mortality.

RESULTS

In this study, 307 (22.4%) and 394 (29.6%) KTRs had 30-d and 90-d EHRs, respectively. Factors such as having previous cases of rejection, being transplanted in more recent years, having a longer duration of dialysis pretransplant, and having an expanded criteria donor were associated with EHR post-transplant. The cumulative probability of death censored graft failure, as well as total graft failure, was higher among the 90-d EHR group as compared to patients with no EHR. While multivariable models found no significant association between EHR and patient mortality, patients with EHR were at an increased risk of late hospital readmissions, poorer kidney function throughout the 1st year post-transplant, and higher hospital-based care costs within the 1st year of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

EHRs are associated with suboptimal outcomes after kidney transplant and increased financial burden on the healthcare system. The results warrant the need for effective strategies to reduce post-transplant EHR.

Factors associated with one-year mortality after hospital discharge: A multicenter prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

1) To identify predictors of one-year mortality in hospitalized medical patients using factors available during their hospital stay. 2) To evaluate whether healthcare system use within 30 days of hospital discharge is associated with one-year mortality.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

This prospective, observational study included adult patients from four mid-sized hospital general internal medicine units. During index hospitalization, we retrieved patient characteristics, including demographic and socioeconomic indicators, diagnoses, and early simplified HOSPITAL scores from electronic health records and patient interviews. Data on healthcare system use was collected using telephone interviews 30 days after discharge. Survival status at one year was collected by telephone and from health records. We used a univariable analysis including variables available from the hospitalization and 30-day post-discharge periods. We then performed multivariable analyses with one model using index hospitalization data and one using 30-day post-discharge data.

RESULTS

Of 934 patients, 123 (13.2%; 95% CI 11.0-15.4%) were readmitted or died within 30 days. Of 814 patients whose primary outcome was available, 108 died (13.3%) within one year. Using factors obtained during hospitalization, the early simplified HOSPITAL score (OR 1.50; 95% CI 1.31-1.71; P < 0.001) and not living at home (OR 4.0; 95% CI 1.8-8.3; P < 0.001) were predictors of one-year mortality. Using 30-day post-discharge predictors, hospital readmission was significantly associated with one-year mortality (OR 4.81; 95% CI 2.77-8.33; P < 0.001).

SIGNIFICANCE

Factors predicting one-year mortality were a high early simplified HOSPITAL score, not living at home, and a 30-day unplanned readmission.

Prevalence of factors contributing to unplanned hospital readmission of older medical patients when assessed by patients, their significant others and healthcare professionals: a cross-sectional survey

OBJECTIVE

To describe the prevalence of factors contributing to readmission of older medical patients perceived by patients, significant others and healthcare professionals and to examine the agreement of factors contributing to readmission.

METHODS

This cross-sectional survey was conducted at Horsens Regional Hospital from September 2020 to June 2021. Patients aged ≥ 65 years and who were readmitted within 30 days were included. The questionnaire covered eight themes: disease; diagnosing, treatment and care; network; organisation; communication; skills and knowledge; resources; and practical arrangements. Response groups were patients, significant others, GPs, district nurses and hospital physicians. Outcomes were the prevalence of factors contributing to 30-day readmission and inter-rater agreement between respondents.

RESULTS

In total, 165 patients, 147 significant others, 115 GPs, 75 district nurses and 165 hospital physicians were included. The patients' median age was 79 years (IQR 74-85), and 44% were women. The following were the most prevalent contributing factors: (1) relapse of the condition that caused the index admission, (2) the patient could not manage the symptoms or illness, (3) worsening of other illnesses or conditions, (4) the patient was not fully treated at the time of discharge and (5) the patient's situation was too complex for the medical practice to handle. Kappas ranged from 0.0142 to 0.2421 for patient-significant other dyads and 0.0032 to 0.2459 for GP-hospital physician dyads.

CONCLUSION

From the perspectives of the included respondents, factors associated with the disease and its management were the most prevalent contributors to readmission for older medical patients. Agreement on the contributing factors was generally low.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical trial number NCT05116644. Registration date October 27, 2021.

Racial/Ethnic Differences in Risk Factors Associated With Severe COVID-19 Among Older Adults With ADRD

OBJECTIVE

To examine racial/ethnic differences in risk factors, and their associations with COVID-19-related outcomes among older adults with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD).

DESIGN

Observational study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

National Medicare claims data and the Minimum Data Set 3.0 from April 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020, were linked in this study. We included community-dwelling fee-for-service Medicare beneficiaries with ADRD, diagnosed with COVID-19 between April 1, 2020, and December 1, 2020 (N = 138,533).

METHODS

Two outcome variables were defined: hospitalization within 14 days and death within 30 days of COVID-19 diagnosis. We obtained information on individual sociodemographic characteristics, chronic conditions, and prior health care utilization based on the Medicare claims and the Minimum Dataset. Machine learning methods, including lasso regression and discriminative pattern mining, were used to identify risk factors in racial/ethnic subgroups (ie, White, Black, and Hispanic individuals). The associations between identified risk factors and outcomes were evaluated using logistic regression and compared across racial/ethnic subgroups using the coefficient comparison approach.

RESULTS

We found higher risks of COVID-19-related outcomes among Black and Hispanic individuals. The areas under the curve of the models with identified risk factors were 0.65 to 0.68 for mortality and 0.61 to 0.62 for hospitalization across racial/ethnic subgroups. Although some identified risk factors (eg, age, gender) for COVID-19-related outcomes were common among all racial/ethnic subgroups, other risk factors (eg, hypertension, obesity) varied by racial/ethnic subgroups. Furthermore, the associations between some common risk factors and COVID-19-related outcomes also varied by race/ethnicity. Being male was related to 138.2% (95% CI: 1.996-2.841), 64.7% (95% CI: 1.546-1.755), and 37.1% (95% CI: 1.192-1.578) increased odds of death among Hispanic, White, and Black individuals, respectively. In addition, the racial/ethnic disparity in COVID-19-related outcomes could not be completely explained by the identified risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Racial/ethnic differences were detected in the likelihood of having COVID-19-related outcomes, specific risk factors, and relationships between specific risk factors and COVID-19-related outcomes. Future research is needed to elucidate the reasons for these differences.

Readmission and adverse outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with dementia

BACKGROUND

As the population ages, clinicians increasingly encounter ischemic heart disease in patients with underlying dementia. Therefore, we quantified differences in inhospital adverse events and 30-day readmission rates among patients with and without dementia undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

Using the National Readmissions Database 2017-2018, we identified 755,406 index hospitalizations in which PCI was performed, of which 17,309 (2.3%) had a diagnosis of dementia. After propensity score matching patients with and without dementia, we assessed 30-day readmission and inhospital adverse events by Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression modeling and compared them with those of other common cardiac (pacemaker placement [PP]) and noncardiac (hip replacement surgery [HRS]) procedures.

RESULTS

Thirty-day readmission was significantly higher in patients with dementia than patients without dementia (hazard ratio [HR] 1.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.60-1.74). Patients with dementia also experienced higher odds of delirium (odds ratio [OR] 4.37, CI 3.69-5.16), inhospital mortality (OR 1.15, CI 1.01-1.30), cardiac arrest (OR 1.19, CI 1.01-1.39), acute kidney injury (OR 1.30, CI 1.21-1.39), and fall (OR 2.51, CI 2.06-3.07). On multivariable Cox modeling, dementia independently predicted 30-day readmission (HR 1.14, CI 1.07-1.20). The higher readmission risk with PCI (11%) among those with dementia was similar to that of patients undergoing PP (10%), but lower than in those undergoing HRS (41%).

CONCLUSION

Patients with dementia who undergo PCI experience significantly increased rates of inhospital delirium, mortality, kidney injury, falls, and 30-day readmission. These adverse outcomes should be considered during shared decision-making with patients and their families.

The impact of universal induction therapy on early hospital readmission of kidney transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Early hospital readmission (EHR) is associated with worse outcomes. The use of anti-thymocyte globulin (rATG) induction therapy is associated with increased efficacy in preventing acute rejection, although safety concerns still exist.

METHODS

This retrospective single-center study compared the incidence, causes of EHR, and one-year clinical outcomes of patients receiving a kidney transplant between August 18, 2011 and December 31, 2012 (old era), in which only high-risk patients received 5 mg/kg rATG, with those transplanted between August 18, 2014 and December 31, 2015 (new era), in which all patients received a single 3 mg/kg dose of rATG.

RESULTS

There were 788 patients from the Old Era and 800 from the New Era. The EHR incidence in the old era patients was 26.4% and in the new era patients, 22.5% (p = 0.071). The main cause of EHR in both eras was infection (67% vs. 68%). The incidence of acute rejection episodes was lower (22.7% vs 3.5%, p < 0.001) and the one-year patient survival was higher (95.6% vs. 98.1%, vs. p = 0.004) in new era patients.

CONCLUSION

The universal use of 3 mg/kg rATG single-dose induction therapy in the new era was associated with a trend towards reduced EHR and a reduction in the incidence of acute rejection and mortality.

Impact of rifaximin use following an initial overt hepatic encephalopathy hospitalization on rehospitalization and costs

AIM

To assess the impact of rifaximin (± lactulose) use following discharge of an initial overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) hospitalization on OHE rehospitalizations and healthcare costs in a real-world setting.

METHODS

Adults (18-64 years) with an OHE hospitalization were identified from MarketScan® Commercial claims (Q4'15-Q2'20), classified into two mutually exclusive treatment cohorts (i.e. rifaximin and no rifaximin treatment), and further stratified into four subgroups based on decreasing quality of care (QoC; i.e. Type 1 - rifaximin without delay post-discharge; Type 2 - rifaximin with delay post-discharge; Type 3 - lactulose only post-discharge; Type 4 - no rifaximin/lactulose treatment post-discharge). The impact of rifaximin use on 30-day and annualized OHE hospitalizations and healthcare costs were assessed between cohorts and by the QoC subgroup.

RESULTS

Characteristics were similar between the rifaximin (N = 1,452; Type 1: 1,138, Type 2: 314) and no rifaximin (N = 560; Type 3:337, Type 4: 223) treatment cohorts. The 30-day risk of OHE rehospitalization was lower for the rifaximin vs. no rifaximin treatment cohort (odds ratio 0.56, p < .01) and increased with decreasing QoC. The annual rate of OHE hospitalizations was 59% lower for the rifaximin treatment cohort (incidence rate ratio 0.41, p < .01) and increased with decreasing QoC. Compared to the no rifaximin treatment cohort, the rifaximin treatment cohort had higher pharmacy costs, lower medical costs, and no difference in total healthcare costs.

LIMITATIONS

This was a claims-based study subject to common data limitations such as billing inaccuracies or omissions in coded claims. Total healthcare costs were reported from a payer's perspective, which do not capture indirect costs associated with patient burden.

CONCLUSIONS

Initiation of rifaximin after an OHE hospitalization was associated with reduced OHE hospitalizations both in the 30-days following and annually. Further, reduced medical costs offset increased pharmacy costs, and no annual cost differences were observed between cohorts.

O impacto da terapia de indução universal na readmissão hospitalar precoce de receptores de transplante renal

Resumo Histórico: A Readmissão Hospitalar Precoce (RHP) está associada a piores desfechos. O uso de terapia de indução com globulina antitimócito (rATG, por sua sigla em inglês) está associado ao aumento da eficácia na prevenção de rejeição aguda, embora ainda existam preocupações quanto à segurança. Métodos: Este estudo retrospectivo de centro único comparou a incidência, as causas da RHP e os desfechos clínicos de um ano de pacientes que receberam transplante renal entre 18 de Agosto de 2011 e 31 de Dezembro de 2012 (Antiga Era), em que apenas pacientes de alto risco receberam 5 mg/kg de rATG, com aqueles transplantados entre 18 de Agosto de 2014 e 31 de Dezembro de 2015 (Nova Era), em que todos os pacientes receberam uma única dose de 3 mg/kg de rATG. Resultados: Houve 788 pacientes da Antiga Era e 800 da Nova Era. A incidência de RHP nos pacientes da antiga era foi de 26,4% e nos pacientes da nova era, 22,5% (p = 0,071). A principal causa de RHP em ambas as eras foi infecção (67% vs. 68%). A incidência de episódios de rejeição aguda foi menor (22,7% vs. 3,5%; p < 0,001) e a sobrevida do paciente em um ano foi maior (95,6% vs. 98,1%; vs. p = 0,004) em pacientes da nova era. Conclusão: O uso universal de terapia de indução de 3 mg/kg de rATG em dose única na nova era foi associado a uma tendência à redução da RHP e a uma redução na incidência de rejeição aguda e mortalidade.

Hepatic encephalopathy and strategies to prevent readmission from inadequate transitions of care

One of the most costly and frequent causes of hospital readmissions in the United States is hepatic encephalopathy in patients with underlying liver cirrhosis. In this narrative review, we cover current practices in inpatient management, transitions of care, and strategies to prevent hospital readmissions. Bundled approaches using a model such as the "Ideal Transitions of Care" appear to be more likely to prevent readmissions and assist patients as they transition to outpatient care. Numerous strategies have been evaluated to prevent readmissions in patients with hepatic encephalopathy, including technologic interventions, involvement of nonphysician team members, early follow-up strategies, and involvement of palliative care when appropriate.

Development and validation of predictive model for long-term hospitalization, readmission, and in-hospital death of patients over 60 years old

Objective

To develop and validate a high-risk predictive model that identifies, at least, one common adverse event in older population: early readmission (up to 30 days after discharge), long hospital stays (10 days or more) or in-hospital deaths.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study including patients aged 60 years or older (n=340) admitted at a 630-beds tertiary hospital, located in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. A predictive model of high-risk indication was developed by analyzing logistical regression models. This model prognostic capacity was assessed by measuring accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve with 95% confidence intervals were also obtained to assess the discriminatory power of the model. Internal validation of the prognostic model was performed in a separate sample (n=168).

Results

Statistically significant predictors were identified, such as current Barthel Index, number of medications in use, presence of diabetes mellitus, difficulty chewing or swallowing, extensive surgery, and dementia. The study observed discrimination model acceptance in the construction sample 0.77 (95% confidence interval: 0.71-0.83) and good calibration. The characteristics of the validation samples were similar, and the receiver operating characteristic curve area was 0.687 (95% confidence interval: 0.598-0.776). We could assess an older patient’s adverse health events during hospitalization after admission.

Conclusion

A predictive model with acceptable discrimination was obtained, with satisfactory results for early readmission (30 days), long hospital stays (10 days), or in-hospital death.

Improving transitions and outcomes of sepsis survivors (I-TRANSFER): a type 1 hybrid protocol

BACKGROUND

This protocol is based on home health care (HHC) best practice evidence showing the value of coupling timely post-acute care visits by registered nurses and early outpatient provider follow-up for sepsis survivors. We found that 30-day rehospitalization rates were 7 percentage points lower (a 41% relative reduction) when sepsis survivors received a HHC nursing visit within 2 days of hospital discharge, at least 1 more nursing visit the first week, and an outpatient provider follow-up visit within 7 days compared to those without timely follow-up. However, nationwide, only 28% of sepsis survivors who transitioned to HHC received this timely visit protocol. The opportunity exists for many more sepsis survivors to benefit from timely home care and outpatient services. This protocol aims to achieve this goal.  METHODS: Guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, this Type 1 hybrid pragmatic study will test the effectiveness of the Improving Transitions and Outcomes of Sepsis Survivors (I-TRANSFER) intervention compared to usual care on 30-day rehospitalization and emergency department use among sepsis survivors receiving HHC. The study design includes a baseline period with no intervention, a six-month start-up period followed by a one-year intervention period in partnership with five dyads of acute and HHC sites. In addition to the usual care/control periods from the dyad sites, additional survivors from national data will serve as control observations for comparison, weighted to produce covariate balance. The hypotheses will be tested using generalized mixed models with covariates guided by the Andersen Behavioral Model of Health Services. We will produce insights and generalizable knowledge regarding the context, processes, strategies, and determinants of I-TRANSFER implementation.

DISCUSSION

As the largest HHC study of its kind and the first to transform this novel evidence through implementation science, this study has the potential to produce new knowledge about the impact of timely attention in HHC to alleviate symptoms and support sepsis survivor's recovery at home. If effective, the impact of this intervention could be widespread, improving the quality of life and health outcomes for a growing, vulnerable population of sepsis survivors. A national advisory group will assist with widespread results dissemination.

Hepatic Encephalopathy-Related Hospitalizations in Cirrhosis: Transition of Care and Closing the Revolving Door

Cirrhosis is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Development of complications of cirrhosis, including hepatic encephalopathy (HE), portends poorer outcomes. HE is associated with hospital readmission, impaired patient and caregiver quality of life, risk of falls, and mortality. Guidelines recommend lactulose as first-line therapy for HE and rifaximin in combination with lactulose for reducing the risk of HE recurrence. Improving post-discharge outcomes, including readmissions, is an important aspect in the management of patients with HE. Approaches focused on improving management and prevention of HE, including properly titrating lactulose dosing, overcoming medication-related nonadherence, and incorporating rifaximin as therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence, as well as incorporating supportive care initiatives, may ease the transition from hospital to home. Strategies to decrease readmission rates include using hospital navigators, who can offer patient/caregiver education, post-discharge planning, and medication review; and involving pharmacists in post-discharge planning. Similarly, telemedicine offers providers the opportunity to monitor patients with HE remotely and improves outcomes. Providers offering transitional care management may be reimbursed when establishing contact with patients within 2 days post-discharge and conducting an outpatient visit within 7 days or 14 days. Several approaches have been shown to improve outcomes broadly in patients post-discharge and may also be effective for improving outcomes specifically in patients hospitalized with cirrhosis and HE, thus closing the revolving door on rehospitalizations in this population.

Effectiveness of Hospital-Based Interventions by Occupational Therapy Practitioners on Reducing Readmissions: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analyses

IMPORTANCE

Readmission to the hospital can lead to poorer patient outcomes and increased health care costs. The effect of occupational therapy interventions for adult hospitalized patients on readmission rates has not been previously evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically examine the published literature to determine the effects of occupational therapy interventions for adult hospitalized patients on readmission rates.

DATA SOURCES

Systematic search of five electronic databases was performed from database inception until May 2020, supplemented by citation and reference list searches. Study Selection and Data Collection: This review is reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered prospectively; methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist. Meta-analyses were conducted with clinically homogeneous data; the overall body of evidence was graded for quality.

FINDINGS

Meta-analysis of 7 studies with 16,718 participants provided low-quality evidence that 1-mo readmission rates were reduced when adult patients hospitalized for general medical and surgical care received additional occupational therapy interventions compared with standard care. Subgroup analysis of 4 studies provided moderate-quality evidence that interventions focusing on the transition from hospital to the community were effective in reducing 1-mo readmissions to hospitals compared with standard care.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Occupational therapy interventions can be effective in reducing readmissions among some adult hospitalized patient populations, including those admitted for surgery or management of acute medical conditions, with stronger evidence to support transitional care interventions. What This Article Adds: Occupational therapy interventions can be effective in reducing readmissions among adult hospitalized patients. There is a continued need for occupational therapy practitioners to understand their value and contribution to reducing avoidable readmissions to hospitals.

External validation of the modified LACE+, LACE+, and LACE scores to predict readmission or death after hospital discharge

BACKGROUND

Unplanned hospital readmissions are common adverse events. The LACE+ score has been used to identify patients at the highest risk of unplanned readmission or death, yet the external validity of this score remains uncertain.

METHODS

We constructed a cohort of patients admitted to hospital between 1 October 2014 and 31 January 2017 using population-based data from British Columbia (Canada). The primary outcome was a composite of urgent hospital readmission or death within 30 days of index discharge. The primary analysis sought to optimize clinical utility and international generalizability by focusing on the modified LACE+ (mLACE+) score, a variation of the LACE+ score which excludes the Case Mix Group score. Predictive performance was assessed using model calibration and discrimination.

RESULTS

Among 368,154 hospitalized individuals, 31,961 (8.7%) were urgently readmitted and 5428 (1.5%) died within 30 days of index discharge (crude composite risk of readmission or death, 9.95%). The mLACE+ score exhibited excellent calibration (calibration-in-the-large and calibration slope no different than ideal) and adequate discrimination (c-statistic, 0.681; 95%CI, 0.678 to 0.684). Higher risk dichotomized mLACE+ scores were only modestly associated with the primary outcome (positive likelihood ratio 1.95, 95%CI 1.93 to 1.97). Predictive performance of the mLACE+ score was similar to that of the LACE+ and LACE scores.

CONCLUSION

The mLACE+, LACE+ and LACE scores predict hospital readmission with excellent calibration and adequate discrimination. These scores can be used to target interventions designed to prevent unplanned hospital readmission.

Risk Factors for Hospital Readmission and Death After Discharge of Older Adults from Acute Geriatric Units: Taking the Rank of Admission into Account

Objective

To analyze the impact of the number of hospital readmissions on the risks of further hospital readmission and death after adjustment for a range of risk factors.

Methods

We performed a multicentre prospective study of the DAMAGE cohort in the Hauts-de-France region of France. Patients aged 75 and over hospitalized initially in an acute geriatric unit (AGU) were included and followed up for 12 months. The risk of hospital readmission was analyzed using a Cox model, and its extension for recurrent events and the risk of death were analyzed using a Cox model for time-dependent variables.

Results

A total of 3081 patients were included (mean (SD) age: 86.4 (5.5)). In the multivariate analysis, the relative risk (95% confidence interval [CI]) of hospital readmission rose progressively to 2.66 (1.44; 5.14), and the risk of death rose to 2.01 (1.23; 3.32) after five hospital admissions, relative to a patient with no hospital readmissions. The number of hospital readmissions during the follow-up period was the primary risk factor and the best predictor of the risk of hospital readmission and the risk of death.

Conclusion

Hospital readmission is the primary risk factor for further hospital readmissions and for death in older subjects discharged from an AGU.

Physician Financial Incentives to Reduce Unplanned Hospital Readmissions: an Interrupted Time Series Analysis

BACKGROUND

In 2012, the Ministry of Health in British Columbia, Canada, introduced a $75 incentive payment that could be claimed by hospital physicians each time they produced a written post-discharge care plan for a complex patient at the time of hospital discharge.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether physician financial payments incentivizing enhanced discharge planning reduce subsequent unplanned hospital readmissions.

DESIGN

Interrupted time series analysis of population-based hospitalization data.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals with one or more eligible hospitalizations occurring in British Columbia between 2007 and 2017.

MAIN MEASURES

The proportion of index hospital discharges with subsequent unplanned hospital readmission within 30 days, as measured each month of the 11-year study interval. We used interrupted time series analysis to determine if readmission risk changed after introduction of the incentive payment policy.

KEY RESULTS

A total of 40,588 unplanned hospital readmissions occurred among 409,289 eligible index hospitalizations (crude 30-day readmission risk, 9.92%). Policy introduction was not associated with a significant step change (0.393%; 95CI, - 0.190 to 0.975%; p = 0.182) or change-in-trend (p = 0.317) in monthly readmission risk. Policy introduction was associated with significantly fewer prescription fills for potentially inappropriate medications among older patients, but no improvement in prescription fills for beta-blockers after cardiovascular hospitalization and no change in 30-day mortality. Incentive payment uptake was incomplete, rising from 6.4 to 23.5% of eligible hospitalizations between the first and last year of the post-policy interval.

CONCLUSION

The introduction of a physician incentive payment was not associated with meaningful changes in hospital readmission rate, perhaps in part because of incomplete uptake by physicians. Policymakers should consider these results when designing similar interventions elsewhere.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov ID, NCT03256734.

Classification and Assessment of Medication Risk in the Elderly (CARE): Use of a Medication Risk Score to Inform Patients' Readmission Likelihood after Hospital Discharge

Existing risk tools that identify patients at high risk of medication-related iatrogenesis are not sufficient to holistically evaluate a patient’s entire medication regimen. This study used a novel medication risk score (MRS) which holistically evaluates medication regimens and provides actionable solutions. The main purpose of this study was to quantify adults ≥ 65 years with a high medication risk burden using the MRS and secondarily, appraise MRS association with hospital readmission. This retrospective cohort study included all consecutive patients in a 6-month period aged 65 years and older, admitted for at least 48 h, and prescribed at least five medications upon discharge. Out of 3017 patients screened, 1386 met all criteria. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with a score of ≥20 and the secondary outcome was the 30-day readmission rate. In the overall population, 17% of patients had an MRS ≥ 20. For patients discharged home, there was a 19% readmission rate for a score ≥ 20 and 11% for <20 (p = 0.009). A score of ;≥20 was associated with a 1.8-fold increased risk of readmission in patients discharged home. Only 7% of patients met these criteria, which can help direct future use of the MRS at patients with the highest risk of medication-related iatrogenesis.

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Heart Failure Disease Management vs Usual Care in Skilled Nursing Facilities

OBJECTIVE

Patients discharged from the hospital to a skilled nursing facility (SNF) are not typically part of a heart failure disease management program (HF-DMP). The objective of this study is to determine if an HF-DMP in SNF improves outcomes for patients with HF.

DESIGN

Cluster-randomized controlled trial.

PARTICIPANTS

The trial was conducted in 47 SNFs, and 671 patients were enrolled (329 HF-DMP; 342 to usual care).

METHODS

The HF-DMP included documentation of ejection fraction, symptoms, weights, diet, medication optimization, education, and 7-day visit post SNF discharge. The composite outcome was all-cause hospitalization, emergency department visits, or mortality at 60 days. Secondary outcomes included the composite endpoint at 30 days, change in the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire and the Self-care of HF Index at 60 days. Rehospitalization and mortality rates were calculated as an exploratory outcome.

RESULTS

Mean age of the patients was 79 ± 10 years, 58% were women, and the mean ejection fraction was 51% ± 16%. At 30 and 60 days post SNF admission, the composite endpoint was not significant between DMP (29%) and usual care (32%) at 30 days and 60 days (43% vs 47%, respectively). The Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire significantly improved in the HF-DMP vs usual care for the Physical Limitation (11.3 ± 2.9 vs 20.8 ± 3.6; P = .039) and Social Limitation subscales (6.0 ± 3.1 vs 17.9 ± 3.8; P = .016). Self-care of HF Index was not significant. The total number of events (composite endpoint) totaled 517 (231 in HF-DMP and 286 in usual care). Differences in the 60-day hospitalization rate [mean HF-DMP rate 0.43 (SE 0.03) vs usual care 0.54 (SE 0.05), P = .04] and mortality rate (HF-DMP 5.2% vs usual care 10.8%, P < .001) were significant.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The composite endpoint was high for patients with HF in SNF regardless of group. Rehospitalization and mortality rates were reduced by the HF-DMP. HF-DMPs in SNFs may be beneficial to the outcomes of patients with HF. SNFs should consider structured HF-DMPs for their patients.

Readmission following both cardiac and non-cardiac acute dyspnoea is associated with a striking risk of death

Aims

Readmission and mortality are the most common and often combined endpoints in acute heart failure (AHF) trials, but an association between these two outcomes is poorly investigated. The aim of this study was to determine whether unplanned readmission is associated with a greater subsequent risk of death in patients with acute dyspnoea due to cardiac and non‐cardiac causes.

Methods and results

Derivation cohort (1371 patients from the LEDA study) and validation cohort (1986 patients from the BASEL V study) included acute dyspnoea patients admitted to the emergency department. Cox regression analysis was used to determine the association of 6 month readmission and the risk of 1 year all‐cause mortality in AHF and non‐AHF patients and those readmitted due to cardiovascular and non‐cardiovascular causes. In the derivation cohort, 666 (49%) of patients were readmitted at 6 months and 282 (21%) died within 1 year. Six month readmission was associated with an increased 1 year mortality risk in both the derivation cohort [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 3.0 (95% confidence interval, CI 2.2–4.0), P < 0.001] and the validation cohort (aHR 1.8, 95% CI 1.4–2.2, P < 0.001). The significant association was similarly observed in AHF (aHR 3.2, 95% CI 2.1–4.9, P < 0.001) and other causes of acute dyspnoea (aHR 2.9, 95% CI 1.9–4.5, P < 0.001), and it did not depend on the aetiology [aHR 2.2, 95% CI 1.6–3.1 for cardiovascular readmissions; aHR 4.1, 95% CI 2.9–5.7 for non‐cardiovascular readmissions (P < 0.001 for both)] or timing of readmission.

Conclusion​s

Our study demonstrated a long‐lasting detrimental association between readmission and death in AHF and non‐AHF patients with acute dyspnoea. These patients should be considered ‘vulnerable patients’ that require personalized follow‐up for an extended period.

Unplanned readmission for older persons: A concept analysis

AIM

The purpose of this concept analysis is to define and analyse the concept of unplanned readmission to hospital for older persons.

DESIGN

Review the literature and analyse the concept of unplanned readmission.

METHOD

Guided by Walker and Avant's eight-stage method of concept analysis, four databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, and Embase) were searched between 1946 and 2020 for empirical studies focused on older persons with multiple chronic conditions, experiences or perspectives and unplanned readmission. A total of 34 articles (10 quantitative, 17 qualitative, three mixed methods), one concept analysis and three historical articles were included.

RESULTS

An unplanned readmission is an experience, process and event. The proposed definition of unplanned readmission is an older person's need for acute care treatment for an urgent or emergent health crisis that has occurred after a previous hospitalization(s). Unplanned readmission is characterized by the attributes of older persons' previous hospitalization(s), the urgent or emergent nature of the older persons' health and the older persons' need for acute care hospital services to resolve their health crisis.

CONCLUSION

Unplanned readmission is a complex concept that is different from planned and emergency visits/admissions and readiness for discharge. These findings provide a link for understanding unplanned readmission as a consequence of discharge readiness. Analysing this concept supports the need for older persons to seek unplanned readmission for acute care treatment of urgent and emergent health crisis, reduces the blame that older persons may feel from questions related to preventability, and stresses the need to include older persons' experiences in the development and expansion of nursing theory, interventions and current understandings of unplanned readmission.

Acute-care hospital reencounters in COVID-19 patients

Acute-care hospital reencounters (ACHEs)—encompassing emergency department visits, observation stays, and hospital readmissions—following COVID-19 hospitalization may exacerbate health care system strain and impair recovery from illness. We sought to characterize these reencounters and factors associated with reencounters. We identified the first consecutive 509 patients hospitalized for COVID-19 within an IL hospital network, and examined ACHEs, experienced within 30 days and 4 months of index hospitalization. We identified independent predictors of reencounter using binary logistic regression. Of 509 patients, 466 (91.6%) were discharged alive from index COVID-19 hospitalization. Within 30 days and 4 months, 12.4% and 21.5% of patients, respectively, experienced ACHEs. The median time to first ACHE was 24.2 (IQR 6.5, 55) days. COVID-19 symptom exacerbation was the leading reason for early ACHE (44.8%). Reencounters, both within 30 days and 4 months, were associated with a history of a neurological disorder before COVID-19 (OR 2.78 [95% CI 1.53, 5.03] and OR 2.75 [95% CI 1.67, 4.53], respectively). Older patients and those with diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or organ transplantation tended towards more frequent ACHEs. Steroid treatment during COVID-19 hospitalization demonstrated reduced odds of 30-day reencounter (OR 0.31 [95% CI 0.091, 0.79]). Forty-nine patients had repeat SARS-CoV-2 nasopharyngeal testing during a reencounter; twelve (24.5%) patients had positive reencounter tests and experienced more frequent reencounters than those testing negative. COVID-19 symptom exacerbation is a leading cause of early ACHE after COVID-19 hospitalization, and steroid use during index hospitalization may reduce early reencounters. Neurologic illness before COVID-19 predicts ACHEs.

Can AM-PAC "6-Clicks" Inpatient Functional Assessment Scores Strengthen Hospital 30-Day Readmission Prevention Strategies?

Background

Prevention of unplanned hospital readmissions remains a priority in the US healthcare sector. Patient functional status has evolved as an important factor in identifying patients at risk for unplanned readmissions and poor predischarge functional performance has been shown to be predictive of increased readmission risk. Yet, patient functional status appears to be underutilized in readmission prediction models.

Methods

To examine the impact of inpatient functional status (mobility and activity performance) on unplanned 30-day hospital readmissions at two tertiary care hospitals, retrospective cohort analysis was performed on electronic health record data from adult inpatients (N = 26,298) having undergone completed functional assessments during their index hospitalization. Primary outcomes were functional assessment scores and unplanned all-cause patient readmission within 30 days following hospital discharge. Secondary analysis stratified the assessment by discharge destination. Functional assessment scores from the Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care (AM-PAC) “6-Clicks” Basic Mobility Short Form or Daily Activity Short Form were extracted along with patient demographics, admission diagnoses, comorbid conditions, and hospital readmission risk score. 

Results

Adjusting for age, sex, and comorbidity, lower AM-PAC “6-Clicks” Basic Mobility and Daily Activity scores resulted in higher readmission rates when each score was considered separately. When both scores were considered, only Daily Activity scores were significant. 

Conclusion

Patients with lower Basic Mobility and Daily Activity scores are at a higher risk for readmission. The relative importance of AM-PAC “6-Click” scores on short-term readmission depends on discharge destination. Timely identification of patient mobility and activity performance may lead to earlier intervention strategies to reduce readmissions. 

Readmission within three months after inpatient geriatric care-Incidence, diagnosis and associated factors in a Swedish cohort

INTRODUCTION

Readmissions are very costly, in monetary terms but also for the individual patient's safety and health. Only by understanding the reasons and drivers of readmissions, it is possible to ensure quality of care and improve the situation. The aim of this study was to assess inpatient readmissions during the first three months after discharge from geriatric inpatient care regarding main diagnosis and frequency of readmission. Furthermore, the aim was to analyze association between readmission and patient characteristics including demography and socioeconomics, morbidity, physical function, risk screening and care process respectively.

METHODS

The study includes all individuals admitted for inpatient care at three geriatric departments operated by the Stockholm region during 2016. Readmission after discharge was studied within three different time intervals; readmission within 10 days after discharge, within 11-30 days and within 31-90 days, respectively. Main diagnosis at readmission was assessed.

RESULTS

One fourth of the individuals discharged from inpatient geriatric care was readmitted during the first three months after discharge. The most common main diagnoses for readmission were heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and pneumonia. Statistically significant risk factors for readmission included age, sex, number of diagnoses at discharge, and to some extent polypharmacy and destination of discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Several clinical risk factors relating to physical performance and vulnerability were associated with risk of readmission. Socioeconomic information did not add to the predictability. To enable reductions in readmission rates, proactive monitoring of frail individuals afflicted with chronic conditions is necessary, and an integrated perspective including all stakeholders involved is crucial.

Importance of previous hospital stays on the risk of hospital re-admission in older adults: a real-life analysis of the PAERPA study population

BACKGROUND

consideration of the first hospital re-admission only and failure to take account of previous hospital stays, which are the two significant limitations when studying risk factors for hospital re-admission. The objective of the study was to use appropriate statistical models to analyse the impact of previous hospital stays on the risk of hospital re-admission among older patients.

METHODS

an exhaustive analysis of hospital discharge and health insurance data for a cohort of patients participating in the PAERPA ('Care Pathways for Elderly People at Risk of Loss of Personal Independence') project in the Hauts de France region of France. All patients aged 75 or over were included. All data on hospital re-admissions via the emergency department were extracted. The risk of unplanned hospital re-admission was estimated by applying a semiparametric frailty model, the risk of death by applying a time-dependent semiparametric Cox regression model.

RESULTS

a total of 24,500 patients (median [interquartile range] age: 81 [77-85]) were included between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2017. In a multivariate analysis, the relative risk (95% confidence interval [CI]) of hospital re-admission rose progressively from 1.8 (1.7-1.9) after one previous hospital stay to 3.0 (2.6-3.5) after five previous hospital stays. The relative risk [95%CI] of death rose slowly from 1.1 (1.07-1.11) after one previous hospital stay to 1.3 (1.1-1.5) after five previous hospital stays.

CONCLUSION

analyses of the risk of hospital re-admission in older adults must take account of the number of previous hospital stays. The risk of death should also be analysed.

Thirty-Day Hospital Readmissions: A Predictor of Higher All-cause Mortality for Up to Two Years

Introduction

Readmission within 30 days is used as a standard quality metric for hospitalized patients. We hypothesized that patients who get readmitted within 30 days may have higher short- and long-term mortality.

Material and Methods

Using administrative data, we retrospectively analyzed 2,353 patients admitted to inpatient medicine service over a period of one year. The patients were matched for diagnostic group (DRG) and severity index (SI) using nearest propensity scores in a 2:1 ratio between non-readmissions (NRA) to readmissions (RA) patients.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in the groups between age, sex, length of stay (LOS), race, and ethnicity. The hazard model yielded a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.06 for 30-day readmissions (95% CI of 1.55, 2.74; p=<0.001). The survival probability at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months was consistently greater for NRA patients. 

Conclusions

Thirty-day readmissions are an independent risk factor for all-cause mortality which persists for at least two years independent of DRG and SI.

A qualitative study of old patients' experiences of the quality of the health services in hospital and 30 days after hospitalization

Background

The number of people aged 80 years and above is projected to triple over the next 30 years. People in this age group normally have at least two chronic conditions. The impact of multimorbidity is often significantly greater than expected from the sum of the effects of each condition. The World Health Organization has indicated that healthcare systems must prepare for a change in the focus of clinical care for older people. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines healthcare quality as care that is effective, efficient, integrated, patient centered, equitable and safe. The degree to which healthcare quality can be defined as acceptable is determined by services’ ability to meet the needs of users and adapt to patients’ expectations and perceptions.

Method

We took a phenomenological perspective to explore older patients’ subjective experiences and conducted semistructured individual interviews. Eighteen patients (aged from 82 to 100 years) were interviewed twice after discharge from hospital. The interview transcriptions were analyzed thematically.

Results

The patients found their meetings with the health service to be complex and demanding. They reported attempting to restore a sense of security and meaning in everyday life, balancing their own needs against external requirements. Five overarching themes emerged from the interviews: hospital stay and the person behind the diagnosis, poor communication and coordination, life after discharge, relationship with their next of kin, and organizational and systemic determinants.

Conclusion

According to the WHO, to deliver quality healthcare, services must include all six of the dimensions listed above. Our findings show that they do not. Healthcare focused on measurable values and biomedical inquiries. Few opportunities for participation, scant information and suboptimal care coordination left the patients with a feeling of being in limbo, where they struggled to find balance in their everyday life. Further work must be done to ensure that integrated services are provided without a financial burden, centered on the needs and rights of older people.

Clinical Characteristics and Factors Associated with Heart Failure Readmission at a Tertiary Hospital in North-Eastern Tanzania

INTRODUCTION

Heart failure (HF) is characterized by frequent episodes of decompensation, leading to a high hospitalization burden. More than 50% of index hospitalizations for HF patients return within 6 months of discharge. Once the patient is readmitted, the risk of further disease progression and the mortality rate are increased. A lot of patients are readmitted due to factors such as poor medication adherence, infections, or worsening comorbidities. The aim of our study was to identify the inpatient burden of HF readmission and to identify the factors associated with early readmission.

METHODS

A hospital-based cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from November 2018 to April 2019 within the medical wards at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), which is a teaching and referral hospital in north-eastern Tanzania. The study population included all patients with HF admitted within the medical ward. Data were collected using questionnaires and blood and radiological investigations, and analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 25. Chi-square test was used to compare proportions of categorical variables. Logistic regression was used to determine the likelihood for readmission, and p-value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 353 patients were identified with HF, of whom 136 (38.5%) had a previous admission. Of the 136 patients analysed, the mean age was 62.8 years (SD 17.1), and 86 (63.2%) were females. Within 30 days after discharge, 34 (25.0%) of the patients were readmissions. Factors for early readmission were unemployment (OR = 2.38, 95% CI = 1.02-5.54, p = 0.043), poor medication adherence (OR = 3.87, 95% CI = 1.67-8.97, p = 0.002), absence of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) (OR = 2.40, 95% CI = 1.09-5.31, p = 0.030), and pleural effusion (OR 3.25, 95% CI = 1.44-7.32, p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

Heart failure is a burden due to a large number of admissions and readmissions. Factors such as poor medication adherence and absence of adequate HF therapy, especially the absence of regimes containing ACEI or ARB, need to be targeted to reduce the number of readmissions. This will help reduce the risk of further decompensations, disease progression, and mortality rate.

Hospital Readmission and Mortality in a Brazilian Tertiary Public Hospital

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Data on mortality associated with hospital readmission are imprecise and highly variable. This study aimed to describe the rate of nonelective 30-day readmission and associated hospital mortality of patients discharged from the Internal Medicine Unit of a Brazilian tertiary public hospital.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included all patients discharged from the Internal Medicine Unit of our institution between September and November 2017 who were nonelectively readmitted within 30 days.

RESULTS

A total of 1047 hospital discharges were analyzed. The rate of nonelective 30-day readmission was 13.7%. Of these, 41 (28.5%) were early readmissions (0-7 days) and 103 (71.5%) were late readmissions (8-30 days). The hospital mortality rate during readmission was 27.8%, being significantly higher during early readmissions (41.5% vs 22.3%; P = .035). Early (as compared with late) readmission was associated with mortality during readmission (relative risk [RR] 1.95; 95% confidence interval, 1.18-3.22; P = .002), regardless of age and Charlson comorbidity index.

CONCLUSION

The Readmission rate was 13.7%, with an associated mortality of 27.8%. Early readmission was an independent predictor of mortality (RR 1.95) in relation to late readmission. Larger studies are needed to better identify this group of patients with an aim to adopt preventive measures.

Early Hospital Readmission (EHR) in kidney transplantation: a review article

Early hospital readmission (EHR), defined as all readmissions within 30 days of initial hospital discharge, is a health care quality measure. It is influenced by the demographic characteristics of the population at risk, the multidisciplinary approach for hospital discharge, the access, coverage, and comprehensiveness of the health care system, and reimbursement policies. EHR is associated with higher morbidity, mortality, and increased health care costs. Monitoring EHR enables the identification of hospital and outpatient healthcare weaknesses and the implementation of corrective interventions. Among kidney transplant recipients in the USA, EHR ranges between 18 and 47%, and is associated with one-year increased mortality and graft loss. One study in Brazil showed an incidence of 19.8% of EHR. The main causes of readmission were infections and surgical and metabolic complications. Strategies to reduce early hospital readmission are therefore essential and should consider the local factors, including socio-economic conditions, epidemiology and endemic diseases, and mobility.

Association Between Subsequent Hospitalizations and Recurrent Acute Myocardial Infarction Within 1 Year After Acute Myocardial Infarction

Background

Patients who survive acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are at high risk for recurrence. We determined whether rehospitalizations after AMI further increased risk of recurrent AMI.

Methods and Results

The study included Medicare fee‐for‐service patients aged ≥65 years discharged alive after AMI from acute‐care hospitals in fiscal years 2009–2014. The outcome was recurrent AMI within 1 year of the index AMI. The Clinical Classifications Software (CCS) was used to classify rehospitalizations into disease categories. A Cox regression model was fit accounting for CCS‐specific hospitalizations as time‐varying variables and patient characteristics at discharge for the index AMI, adjusting for the competing risk of death. The rate of 1‐year recurrent AMI was 5.3% (95% CI, 5.27%–5.41%), and median (interquartile range) time from discharge to recurrent AMI was 115 (34–230) days. Eleven disease categories (diabetes mellitus, anemia, hypertension, coronary atherosclerosis, chest pain, heart failure, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, renal failure, complication of implant or graft) were associated with increased risk of recurrent AMI. Septicemia was associated with lower recurrence risk. Hazard ratios ranged from 1.6 (95% CI, 1.55–1.70, heart failure) to 1.1 (95% CI, 1.04–1.25, pneumonia) to 0.6 (95% CI, 0.58–0.71, septicemia).

Conclusions

Patient risk of recurrent AMI changed based on the occurrence of hospitalizations after the index AMI. Improving post–acute care to prevent unplanned rehospitalizations, especially rehospitalizations for chronic diseases, and extending the focus of outcomes measures to condition‐specific rehospitalizations within 30 days and beyond is important for the secondary prevention of AMI.

Informal caregivers' views on the quality of healthcare services provided to older patients aged 80 or more in the hospital and 30 days after discharge

Background

In the European Union (EU), informal caregivers provide 60% of all care. Informal caregiving ranges from assistance with daily activities and provision of direct care to helping care recipients to navigate within complex healthcare and social services systems. While recent caregiver surveys document the impact of informal caregivers, systematic reviews show that they have unmet needs.

Because of the political desire to reduce the length of hospital stays, older patients are discharged from the hospital ‘quicker and sicker’ than before. The transition between different levels of the healthcare system and the period after hospital discharge is critical for elderly patients.

Caregivers’ perspectives on the quality of older patients’ care journeys between levels of the healthcare system may provide valuable information for healthcare providers and policymakers. This study aims to explore older patient’s informal caregivers’ views on healthcare quality in the hospital and in the first 30 days after hospitalisation.

Method

We conducted semi-structured individual interviews with 12 participants to explore and describe informal caregivers’ subjective experiences of providing care to older relatives. The interviews were then transcribed and analysed thematically.

Results

The analysis yielded the overarching theme ‘Informal caregivers – a health service alliance – quality contributor’, which was divided into four main themes: ‘Fast in, fast out’, ‘Scant information’, ‘Disclaimer of responsibility’ and ‘A struggle to secure professional care’. The healthcare system seemed to pay little attention to ensuring mutual understandings between those involved in discharge, treatment and coordination. The participants experienced that the healthcare providers’ main focus was on the patients’ diseases, although the health services are supposed to view patients holistically.

Conclusion

Based on the information given by informal caregivers, health services must take into account each person’s needs and preferences. To deliver quality healthcare, better coordination between inter-professional care teams and the persons they serve is necessary. Health professionals must strengthen the involvement of caregivers in transitions between care and healthcare. Future work should evaluate targeted strategies for formal caregivers to cooperate, support and empower family members as informal caregivers.

Hospital readmissions after pulmonary resection: post-discharge nursing telephone assessment identifies high risk patients

Background

We previously reported that post-discharge nursing telephone assessments identified a frequent number of patient complaints. Our aim was to determine if telephone assessments can identify patients at risk for emergency room (ER) visits or hospital readmissions.

Methods

A single-institution, retrospective review was performed on all patients undergoing pulmonary resection over a 12-month period. Standardized nursing telephone calls were conducted and records were reviewed to determine postoperative issues. ER visits and readmissions within 30 and 90 days were recorded.

Results

In total, 521 patients underwent pulmonary resection and 245 (47%) were reached for telephone assessment. ER visits within 30/90 days were 8.1% (n=42) and 12.1% (n=63). Readmissions within 30/90 days were 3.1% (n=16) and 6% (n=31). For those reached by telephone assessment, patients with major issue demonstrated increased 30-day ER visits: 22.6% (n=7) vs. 8.0% (n=17), P=0.019. For all patients, those with 90-day ER visit and/or readmission were more likely to have pulmonary complications during initial admission (43.8% vs. 21.2%, P<0.001). Among patients who were reached by telephone, independent predictors of ER visit or readmission within 30 days were: major issue identified on telephone assessment (P=0.007), discharge with chest tube (<0.001), and reintubation postoperatively (P=0.047).

Conclusions

Standardized nursing telephone assessments were able to identify a high-risk population more likely to need ER visit or readmission. However, telephone assessments did not decrease ER visits or readmissions. Improved post-discharge protocols are needed for these high-risk patients in order to ensure patient safety, optimize patient experience, and limit unnecessary resource utilization.

Incidence and Clinical Significance of 30-Day and 90-Day Rehospitalization for Heart Failure Among Patients With Acute Decompensated Heart Failure in Japan - From the NARA-HF Study

BACKGROUND

Countermeasure development for early rehospitalization for heart failure (re-HHF) is an urgent and important issue in Western countries and Japan.Methods and Results:Of 1,074 consecutive NARA-HF study participants with acute decompensated HF admitted to hospital as an emergency between January 2007 and December 2016, we excluded 291 without follow-up data, who died in hospital, or who had previous HF-related hospitalizations, leaving 783 in the analysis. During the median follow-up period of 895 days, 241 patients were re-admitted for HF. The incidence of re-HHF was the highest within the first 30 days of discharge (3.3% [26 patients]) and remained high until 90 days, after which it decreased sharply. Within 90 days of discharge, 63 (8.0%) patients were re-admitted. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that patients with 90-day re-HHF had worse prognoses than those without 90-day re-HHF in terms of all-cause death (hazard ratio [HR] 2.321, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.654-3.174; P<0.001) and cardiovascular death (HR 3.396, 95% CI 2.153-5.145; P<0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated that only male sex was an independent predictor of 90-day re-HHF.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of early re-HHF was lower in Japan than in Western countries. Its predictors are not related to the clinical factors of HF, indicating that a new comprehensive approach might be needed to prevent early re-HHF.

Association Between Mobility Measured During Hospitalization and Functional Outcomes in Older Adults With Acute Myocardial Infarction in the SILVER-AMI Study

Importance

Many older survivors of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) experience functional decline, an outcome of primary importance to older adults. Mobility impairment has been proposed as a risk factor for functional decline but has not been evaluated to date in older patients hospitalized for AMI.

Objective

To examine the association of mobility impairment, measured during hospitalization, as a risk marker for functional decline among older patients with AMI.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Prospective cohort study among 94 academic and community hospitals in the United States. Participants were 2587 hospitalized patients with AMI who were 75 years or older. The study dates were January 2013 to June 2017.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Mobility was evaluated during AMI hospitalization using the Timed "Up and Go," with scores categorized as preserved mobility (≤15 seconds to complete), mild impairment (>15 to ≤25 seconds to complete), moderate impairment (>25 seconds to complete), and severe impairment (unable to complete). Self-reported function in activities of daily living (ADLs) (bathing, dressing, transferring, and walking around the home) and walking 0.4 km (one-quarter mile) was assessed at baseline and 6 months after discharge. The primary outcomes were worsening of 1 or more ADLs and loss of ability to walk 0.4 km from baseline to 6 months after discharge. The association between mobility impairment and risk of functional decline was evaluated with multivariable-adjusted logistic regression.

Results

Among 2587 hospitalized patients with AMI, the mean (SD) age was 81.4 (4.8) years, and 1462 (56.5%) were male. More than half of the cohort exhibited mobility impairment during AMI hospitalization (21.8% [564 of 2587] had mild impairment, 16.0% [414 of 2587] had moderate impairment, and 15.2% [391 of 2587] had severe impairment); 12.8% (332 of 2587) reported ADL decline, and 16.7% (431 of 2587) reported decline in 0.4-km mobility. Only 3.8% (30 of 800) of participants with preserved mobility experienced any ADL decline compared with 6.9% (39 of 564) of participants with mild impairment (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.24; 95% CI, 0.74-2.09), 18.6% (77 of 414) of participants with moderate impairment (aOR, 2.67; 95% CI, 1.67-4.27), and 34.7% (136 of 391) of participants with severe impairment (aOR, 5.45; 95% CI, 3.29-9.01). Eleven percent (90 of 800) of participants with preserved mobility declined in ability to walk 0.4 km compared with 15.2% (85 of 558) of participants with mild impairment (aOR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.04-2.20), 19.0% (78 of 411) of participants with moderate impairment (aOR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.37-3.02), and 24.6% (95 of 386) of participants with severe impairment (aOR, 3.25; 95% CI, 2.02-5.23).

Conclusions and Relevance

This study's findings suggest that mobility impairment assessed during hospitalization may be a potent risk marker for functional decline in older survivors of AMI. These findings also suggest that brief, validated assessments of mobility should be part of the care of older hospitalized patients with AMI to identify those at risk for this important patient-centered outcome.

The Association of Medication Knowledge and Adherence Scores With Hospital Readmission

Introduction: Readmission scoring systems are used to predict 30-day hospital readmission. These prediction tools do not considerlack of patient medication knowledge or adherence which can worsen disease outcomes or increase risk of readmissions. Objective: To determine if medication knowledge and adherence, as assessed by validated questionnaires, are associated with an increased rate of 30-day readmission. Methods: Adult medical inpatients were randomly selected for a prospective, single center study that was conducted from January to August 2017. Patients were asked the 4-question Morisky Green Levine Scale (MGLS) and the 4-question Medication Knowledge Score (MKS). Validated readmission score; MKS; and MGLS, as well as baseline information and readmission status within 30 days after the index admission were recorded. Mean or median scores were compared for patients readmitted within 30 days with those not readmitted using descriptive and univariate inferential statistics. Results: Data from 119 patients showed a mean age of 63 years (SD = 16). There was no difference in baseline information: age, sex, or number of scheduled home medications between those readmitted within 30 days and those not readmitted. Patients readmitted within 30 days had a statistically higher readmission score compared to patients not readmitted (66.4 vs 57.1, P = .017). There was no difference in median MKS or mean MGLS between patients readmitted within 30 days and those not readmitted (MKS: 4.0 vs 3.0, P = .753; MGLS: 1 vs 1.3, P = .162). Conclusions: In this prospective study, neither the MKS nor the MGLS scores were associated with 30-day hospital readmission.

Long-term outcomes among Medicare patients readmitted in the first year of hemodialysis: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Readmission within 30 days of hospital discharge is common and costly among end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. Little is known about long-term outcomes after readmission. We estimated the association between hospital admissions and readmissions in the first year of dialysis and outcomes in the second year.

Methods

Data on incident dialysis patients with Medicare coverage were obtained from the United States Renal Data System (USRDS). Readmission patterns were summarized as no admissions in the first year of dialysis (Admit-), at least one admission but no readmissions within 30 days (Admit+/Readmit-), and admissions with at least one readmission within 30 days (Admit+/Readmit+).We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate the association between readmission pattern and mortality, hospitalization, and kidney transplantation, accounting for demographic and clinical covariates.

Results

Among the 128,593 Medicare ESRD patients included in the study, 18.5% were Admit+/Readmit+, 30.5% were Admit+/Readmit-, and 51.0% were Admit-. Readmit+/Admit+ patients had substantially higher long-term risk of mortality (HR = 3.32 (95% CI, 3.21–3.44)), hospitalization (HR = 4.46 (95% CI, 4.36–4.56)), and lower likelihood of kidney transplantation (HR = 0.52 (95% CI, 0.44–0.62)) compared to Admit- patients; these associations were stronger than those among Admit+/Readmit- patients.

Conclusions

Patients with readmissions in the first year of dialysis were at substantially higher risk of poor outcomes than either patients who had no admissions or patients who had hospital admissions but no readmissions. Identifying strategies to both prevent readmission and mitigate risk among patients who had a readmission may improve outcomes among this substantial, high-risk group of ESRD patients.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12882-019-1473-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Unplanned Readmissions After Acute Myocardial Infarction: 1-Year Trajectory Following Discharge From a Safety Net Hospital

BACKGROUND

Financial penalties rendered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services have brought about new challenges for safety net hospitals that serve a vulnerable patient population with risk factors associated with high readmission rates. Our goal was to determine the 1-year trajectory of unplanned readmissions in post-myocardial infarction (MI) patients, and to identify factors associated with readmission.

METHODS

A total of 261 acute MI patients admitted from April 2015 to April 2016 were evaluated in a multidisciplinary cardiology clinic within 10 days of hospital discharge and baseline characteristics and medical comorbidities were collected. Readmission and mortality data were obtained at 1 year through chart review and telephone follow-up.

RESULTS

At 1 year, there were 90 (34%) unplanned readmissions of which half were for noncardiac diagnoses. Of these, 69 patients (77%) were readmitted once, 16 (18%) were readmitted twice, 2 (2%) were readmitted 3 times, and 3 (3%) were readmitted 4 times over the subsequent year. Cardiac causes of 1-year readmission included recurrent MI in 23 (9%) and decompensated heart failure in 18 (7%) patients. Depressed left ventricular systolic function (hazard ratio, 2.23; 95% confidence interval, 2.00-2.44; P = 0.0003) and diabetes mellitus (hazard ratio, 1.60; 95% confidence interval, 1.38-1.82; P = 0.029) were associated with a significantly higher risk of readmission at 1 year.

CONCLUSION

Following acute MI, patients are readmitted for cardiac and noncardiac diagnoses well beyond the 30-day mark. This is likely a function of the vulnerability of the patient population rather than a reflection of the medical care provided. More frequent surveillance may attenuate this problem.

Early hospital readmission and survival in patients with cirrhosis: A population-based study

BACKGROUND

Readmission in patients with cirrhosis is common. We aimed to determine the association between early hospital readmission and survival in the general population of patients with cirrhosis.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study used routinely collected health care data from Ontario. We identified adults with cirrhosis using a validated case definition, and included those with at least one hospital admission between 1992 and 2016 resulting in discharge. Patients were classified into two groups based on timing of readmission after index admission: 1) ≤90 days, or 2) >90 days or no readmission. We described overall survival (OS) 90 days after the index hospitalization by readmission status using Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test. The association between readmission and OS was evaluated using a multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model.

RESULTS

Our study included 115,081 patients. The median OS was shorter in patients readmitted in ≤90 days (4.1 years, IQR 0.9, 13.1) compared with those readmitted in >90 days or not readmitted during the study period (9.6 years, IQR 3.2, 21.9, p <0.001). Adjusting for potential confounders, those readmitted in ≤90 days had a higher hazard of death than those not readmitted (hazard ratio [HR] 1.56, 95% CI 1.53 to 1.59, p <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Early readmission in patients with cirrhosis is a strong predictor of decreased OS. Our results suggest that patients with cirrhosis who have an early readmission should be further studied to determine whether this risk is modifiable. They can also be used to discuss long-term prognosis with patients and family members.

Readmission Patterns Over 90-Day Episodes of Care Among Medicare Fee-for-Service Beneficiaries Discharged to Post-acute Care

OBJECTIVE

Examine readmission patterns over 90-day episodes of care in persons discharged from hospitals to post-acute settings.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Acute care hospitals.

PARTICIPANTS

Medicare fee-for-service enrollees (N = 686,877) discharged from hospitals to post-acute care in 2013-2014. The cohort included beneficiaries >65 years of age hospitalized for stroke, joint replacement, or hip fracture and who survived for 90 days following discharge.

MEASUREMENTS

90-day unplanned readmissions.

RESULTS

The cohort included 127,680 individuals with stroke, 442,195 undergoing joint replacement, and 117,002 with hip fracture. Thirty-day readmission rates ranged from 3.1% for knee replacement patients discharged to home health agencies (HHAs) to 14.4% for hemorrhagic stroke patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). Ninety-day readmission rates ranged from 5.0% for knee replacement patients discharged to HHAs to 26.1% for hemorrhagic stroke patients discharged to SNFs. Differences in readmission rates decreased between stroke subconditions (hemorrhagic and ischemic) and increased between joint replacement subconditions (knee, elective hip, and nonelective hip) from 30 to 90 days across all initial post-acute discharge settings.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed clear patterns in readmissions over 90-day episodes of care across post-acute discharge settings and subconditions. Our findings suggest that patients with hemorrhagic stroke may be more vulnerable than those with ischemic over the first 30 days after hospital discharge. For patients receiving nonelective joint replacements, readmission prevention efforts should start immediately after discharge and continue, or even increase, over the 90-day episode of care.

Improving Heart Failure Readmission Costs and Outcomes With a Hospital-to-Home Readmission Intervention Program

A retrospective cohort study was performed of the Hospital-to-Home (H2H) program, a rapid clinic follow-up program for patients with recent heart failure (HF) admissions at the University of Virginia Health System. There were 6761 hospitalizations among 4685 patients (age 67.5 ± 14.2 years, 43.9% female), and 759 had H2H follow-up. Thirty day mortality after the initial HF hospitalization was lower in H2H patients (1.84% vs 3.13%; P = .049), and this difference remained significant after adjustment in a multivariable logistic regression model (odds ratio = 0.56 [95% CI = 0.31-099]; P = .046). There also was a 24% reduction in readmission days within the first 30 days after the index admission ( P < .0001), and readmission cost savings were found to be greater than the costs of staffing the H2H clinic. In summary, the H2H program is cost-effective, with significant improvements in survival, readmission days, and readmission costs over 30 days.

Preventability of 28-Day Hospital Readmissions in General Internal Medicine Patients: A Retrospective Analysis at a Quaternary Hospital

BACKGROUND

Unplanned hospital readmissions are associated with increased patient mortality and health care costs, yet only a fraction are likely to be preventable. This study's objective was to identify preventable hospital readmissions of general internal medicine patients, and their common causes.

METHODS

Patients who were discharged from the general internal medicine teaching service and readmitted to hospital within 28 days for 24 hours or more were recruited to the study; they were identified via the hospital electronic medical record system. Data were gathered via structured review of hospital charts/electronic medical records, along with standardized patient interviews. Unique to our study, a multidisciplinary panel of physicians, nurses, and hospital administrators adjudicated preventability and identified common causes of readmission.

RESULTS

Fifty-five hospital readmissions were identified; 53% were adjudicated to be preventable. There was no difference in any variable analyzed between preventable and nonpreventable readmissions. The most common causes of preventable readmissions were inadequate coordination of community services upon discharge, insufficient clinical postdischarge follow-up, and suboptimal end-of-life care.

CONCLUSION

This study identified a higher proportion of preventable 28-day hospital readmissions when compared with prior research. Increased involvement of palliative care during initial hospitalization for appropriate conditions and improvements in care after discharge may reduce preventable hospital readmissions.