Abstract TP278: Positive Impact of a Stroke Bundle Program

Abstract

Introduction: There are limited comparative data on the impact of a stroke bundle program on patient outcomes. We aimed to assess the magnitude of change that could occur during transitions of care process by implementation of a stroke bundle program. Methods: Six skilled nursing facilities (SNF) participated with a Joint Commission certified Comprehensive Stroke Center to implement a Bundled Payment Care Initiative (BPCI) program. The stroke leadership developed a charter and additional support teams (care coordination and SNF). Three smart goals were identified and reflected organizational strategic goals: reduction of the number of stroke patients that are admitted to a SNF by 5% (baseline 27.9%); reduction of preferred provider SNF days for stroke patients by 10% (baseline 35.5%) and reduction of hospital readmissions for stroke by 5% (baseline 31.5%). A strong infrastructure supported the care coordination teams including the hiring of a full time stroke nurse navigator. The kick off for the program was October 1, 2015. Several strategic and operational initiatives were developed and successfully implemented at SNFs: utilization of stroke clinical practice guidelines: stroke education programs; stroke summit for all SNF administrators, physicians and staff; bi-monthly, face to face/conference call meetings with SNF administrators and bundle team leadership; case reviews between caregivers at acute setting and SNF; SharePoint site to enhance communication; stroke nurse navigator interaction with patients, families, SNF staff, 90 day follow up and readmission case reviews. Results: Smart goal achievement over a 6 month period demonstrated: reduction of the number of stroke patients that were admitted to SNF by .4% (21.9%); reduction of preferred provider SNF days for stroke patients by 16% (16%) and reduction of hospital readmissions for stroke by 7% (23.3%). Comparison of hospital length of stay variance between bundle (3.78) and non-bundle patients (5.08) patients was 1.3%. Conclusions: A stroke bundle program impacts positively on transitions of care at preferred provider SNF facilities. Standardization of care and a unified care team attributes to stroke patients returning to their life at home in a much more efficient and timely manner.