Abstract 338: BRIDGE: A Post-Discharge Transitional Care Model in over 1600 Cardiac Patients

Abstract

Background: Current legislation imposes financial penalties for high 30-day readmissions for AMI. BRIDGE is a NP-led, post-discharge transitional care program for cardiac patients, aimed at ensuring prompt follow up (f/u; in 14 days) and care coordination. Herein we report the effect of BRIDGE on readmissions in over 1600 cases. Methods: Retrospective data was abstracted for patients referred to BRIDGE including demographics, comorbidities, medications, days to f/u, and 6-month outcomes by diagnosis. Results: Of 1955 patients referred to the BRIDGE clinic, 271 (13.9%) were excluded for adverse events prior to their visit (ED visit n=60, readmission n=193, or death n=14) or missing data (n=4). 1210 (71.9%) of patients from the remaining sample (n=1684) attended BRIDGE. Diagnoses included: ACS (n=462, 27.6%); angina (n=207, 12.4%); CAD (n=196, 11.7%); AFib (n=247, 14.7%); CHF (n=316, 18.9%); or other (n=256, 15.2%). With the exception of mental health disorders (35.4% v. 29.1%, p=.012) there were no baseline differences (including the Charlson Comorbidity Score) between non-attendees and attendees (Table 1). ACS attendees, compared to non-attendees, had a trend toward lower 30, 60, and 90 day readmission rates (Table 2). This was not observed for other diagnoses. Conclusions: A NP based transitional care clinic visit early post-discharge appears to reduce early readmissions for patients with an ACS, but in this study did not impact other cardiac conditions. Also, patients with a history of substance abuse or depression are significantly less likely to attend BRIDGE appointments. To avoid a lapse in care, these patients may need prompt f/u with their PCP or cardiologist to help reduce early readmissions.