Impact of Pharmacist-Driven Heart Failure in-Home Counseling on 30-Day Readmission Rates.

Abstract

This study examines the impact of a pharmacist-driven intervention specific to heart failure patients with the goal of reducing readmission rates and improving quality of life in this population. A total of 21 patients were included in the study. Twelve patients were female and 9 were male. The mean age was 76 years with a range of 65-93 years. Two of the 21 patients were readmitted within 30 days. One of the 2 readmitted patients died soon after admission was in the final stages of his or her disease and passed away soon after; it is unlikely for a home visit to have altered their path. This study did not meet the goal sample size due to some unforeseen limitations. However, the limited data that were obtained suggest a strong basis for further research. During a patient's transition in care from hospital to home, he or she is most vulnerable for complications and readmission. Intervention during this time will not only improve patient care and quality of life but also contribute to a notable cost savings for each prevented readmission. Pharmacist intervention, as part of the health care team, during this tenuous time has shown to make a valuable impact.