Care Models Preventing Readmission.

Abstract

This article aims to identify the steps necessary to evaluate the clinical need for innovative coverage models within the oncology setting to help prevent hospital readmissions. Multiple published studies suggest alternative methods for patient care delivery that are safe and cost effective. Improving care transitions for the oncology patient is necessary to be able to provide low-cost, high-quality, and patient-centered care. Many of the review studies in this article suggest that emergency room visits and subsequent readmission could be decreased with the use of innovative care models. Nurses are critical to the care of medically fragile patients. Nurse-led activities such as telephone triage, post discharge phone calls, or telehealth visits can reduce patient emergency department utilization and readmissions through early recognition of symptoms and oncologic emergencies by prompting timely referrals/consultations and quick interventions.