Hospital Readmission Rates For Patients Research Articles

Hospital Readmission Rates for Patients Receiving In-Person vs. Telemedicine Discharge Follow-Up Care.

Unplanned readmissions can be avoided by standardizing and improving the coordination of care after discharge. Telemedicine has been increasingly utilized; however, the quality of this care has not been well studied. Standardized measures can provide an objective comparison of care quality. The purpose of our study was to compare quality performance transitions of care management in the office vs telemedicine. The Epic SlicerDicer tool was used to compare the percentage of encounters that were completed via telemedicine (video visits); or via in-person for comparison, Chi-squared tests were used. A total of 13,891 patients met the inclusion criteria during the study time frame. There were 12,846 patients in the office and 1,048 in the telemedicine cohort. The office readmission rate was 11.9% with 1,533 patients out of 12,846 compared with telemedicine with the rate of readmission at 12.1% with 126 patients out of 1,045 patients. The P-value for the Chi-squared test between the prepandemic and study time frame was 0.15 and 0.95, respectively. Demographic comparability was seen. Our study found a comparable readmission rate between patients seen via in-office and telemedicine for Transitions of Care Management (TCM) encounters. The findings of this study support the growing body of evidence that telemedicine augments quality performance while reducing cost and improving access without negatively impacting HEDIS performance in health care systems. Telemedicine poses little threat of negatively impacting HEDIS performance and might be as effective as posthospitalization traditional office care transitions of care management.

Success in Heart Failure? An Investigation of Heart Failure Readmission Rates and Medication Regimen Optimization.

In May 2022, the American College of Cardiology updated their guideline-directed medical therapy for congestive heart failure (CHF) to include four pillars of therapy. These pillars aim to better control patients with heart failure (HF) and reduce the incidence of hospitalization by including an evidence-based beta-blocker, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/ angiotensin receptor blocker/angiotensin receptor/ neprilysin inhibitor, a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, and newly recommended sodium glucose cotransporter 2-inhibitors. This study at University of Florida Health Central Florida Hospitals reviewed patients who were diagnosed with CHF and recorded if they were readmitted with a HF exacerbation within 30 days of an initial index admission. Patients had data obtained retrospectively using electronic medical records from patient hospital encounters within the study inclusion dates; 7/1/2022-9/30/2022. Hospital readmission rates for patients with CHF, and information on each patient's medication regimen was collected to see if they met medication optimization criteria. A total of 252 patients were evaluated, with 157 meeting the inclusion criteria. Of the patients included, 23 (14.6%) experienced a hospital readmission within 30 days because of acute HF exacerbation or worsening HF. After reviewing medication regimens, 60 patients (38.2%) were receiving treatment with one pillar of therapy, 72 (45.8%) with two pillars of therapy, 12 (7.6%) with three pillars of therapy, and one patient was treated with all four pillars of therapy. In conclusion, this study showed that the recommended pillars of therapy are not being implemented and patients with CHF may benefit from medication optimization.

Worsening renal function in patients admitted with congestive heart failure: prevalence, risk profile, and hospital readmissions

Abstract Introduction Renal function is often negatively impacted in patients with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) due to the interplay between the heart and kidneys. Worsening Renal Function (WRF) has been associated with decreased survival, accelerated CHF progression, and higher hospitalization rate. Previous literature has thoroughly documented the effects of CHF on hospital readmissions; however, few studies have examined the impact of WRF on CHF during hospitalization, particularly not in a vulnerable population. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, clinical predictors, and short-term hospital readmissions of WRF among hospitalized CHF patients. Methods This was a retrospective chart review utilizing the data of 297 patients hospitalized for CHF from 2019 to 2020, either due to an exacerbation of symptoms or new-onset of disease. The analysis of our study centered around identifying the risk factors and 30-day hospital readmission rates of patients with WRF, defined as an increase in serum creatinine of ≥ 0.3 mg/dL from admission, in comparison to patients who did not develop WRF. The significance between the two groups was measured using Fisher's Exact test, Wilcoxon rank-sum, and chi-square analysis. A risk score calculated from the sum of point values assigned to each independent risk factor was created. Results Data shows that 27% of hospitalized CHF patients developed WRF. Patients with WRF had a significantly longer hospital stay and a significantly higher increase in daily Creatinine values. We identified old age, overweight, type 2 diabetes (T2D), chronic kidney disease not on dialysis, and high Furosemide dose (oral and intravenous) as independent risk factors. Other independent risk factors include abnormally high serum levels of ProBNP (≥ 9,000 ng/dL), troponin T ≥ (0.04 ng/mm), and Creatinine (≥ 1.5 mg/dL). Based on this data, a point score reflected that patients with a 6+ risk score were four times more likely to develop WRF than patients with a risk score of 0. There was no association between WRF and higher 30-day readmissions. Conclusions WRF is common in hospitalized CHF patients. Although WRF was not associated with an increased 30-day hospital readmission rate, it was associated with longer hospital length of stay and thus increased economic burden. These results highlight the benefits of implementing in-care changes to address the particular risk factors associated with WRF to prevent further progression of renal impairment in hospitalized HF patients. Future directions will incorporate other outcome variables that discern the long-term implications of WRF, including 5-year readmission rates, ESKD, and mortality.

A Retrospective Review of 30-Day Hospital Readmission Risk After Open Heart Surgery in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation.

Introduction Readmission rates after open heart surgery (OHS) remain an important clinical issue. The causes are varied, with identifying risk factors potentially providing valuable information to reduce healthcare costs and the rate of post-operative complications. This study aimed to characterize the reasons for 30-day hospital readmission rates of patients after open heart surgery. Methods All patients over 18 years of age undergoing OHS at a community hospital from January 2020 through December 2020 were identified. Demographic data, medical history, operative reports, post-operative complications, and telehealth interventions were obtained through chart review. Descriptive statistics and readmission rates were calculated, along with a logistic regression model,to understand the effects of medical history on readmission. Results A total of 357 OHS patients met the inclusion criteria for the study. Within the population, 8.68% of patients experienced readmission, 10.08% had an emergency department (ED) visit, and 95.80% had an outpatient office visit. A history of atrial fibrillation (AFib) significantly predicted 30-day hospital readmissions but not ED or outpatient office visits. Telehealth education was delivered to 66.11% of patients. Conclusion The study investigated factors associated with 30-day readmission following OHS. AFib patients were more likely to be readmitted than patients without atrial fibrillation. No other predictors of readmission, ED visits, or outpatient office visits were found. Patients reporting symptoms of tachycardia, pain, dyspnea, or "other" could be at increased risk for readmission.

Preventing Avoidable Rehospitalizations through Standardizing Management of Chronic Conditions in Skilled Nursing Facilities

ObjectivesThis study evaluated the impact of standardized care protocols, as a part of a quality improvement initiative (J10ohns Hopkins Community Health Partnership, J-CHiP), on hospital readmission rates for patients with a diagnosis of congestive heart failure (CHF) and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) after being discharged to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). DesignA retrospective study comparing 30-day hospital readmission rates the year before and 2 years following the implementation of the care protocol interventions. Settings and ParticipantsPatients discharged from Johns Hopkins Hospital or Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center to the participating SNFs diagnosed with CHF and/or COPD. MethodsThe standardized protocols included medical provider or nurse assessments on SNF admission, multidisciplinary care planning, and medication management to avoid unplanned readmissions to the hospital. Descriptive analyses were conducted to illustrate the 30-day readmission rates before and after protocol implementation. ResultsThere were 1128 patients in the pre-J-CHiP cohort and 2297 patients in the J-CHiP cohort. About half of the patients with a recorded diagnosis of CHF without COPD had the standardized protocol initiated, whereas 47% of the patients with a recorded diagnosis of COPD without CHF had the standardized protocol initiated. Of patients with recorded diagnoses of COPD and CHF, 49% had both protocols initiated. A reduction in the readmission rate was observed for patients with COPD protocols, from 23.5% in 2011 to 12.1% in 2015. However, fluctuations in the readmission rates were observed for patients who initiated the CHF protocols. Conclusions and ImplicationsThere were improvements in the readmission rates in this study, especially for patients who had initiated standardized care protocols in the SNFs. Our findings demonstrate great value in standardizing care management and strengthening collaboration with chronic care settings to facilitate a smooth transition of medically complex patients discharged from large health care systems. Future interventions could consider assessing nonclinical factors that may impact preventable hospital readmissions.

Hospital Readmission Rates in Patients With Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder.

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an aggressive central nervous system astrocytopathy often resulting in rapid neurologic decline. Patients have recurrent flares that require immunomodulatory therapy for relapse prevention. These patients are usually hospitalized and may need rehospitalization after decline. Hospital readmission rates are important indicators that can be used to gauge health care quality and have direct implications on hospital compensation. This study aims to identify high-risk characteristics of patients with NMOSD that can be used to predict hospital readmissions. The 2017 Nationwide Readmissions Database was searched for hospital admissions for NMOSD in the United States. All patients with hospital readmission within 30 days of discharge from the index hospitalization were included. The 30-day all-cause readmission rate for NMOSD was 11.9% (95% CI, 10.6%-13.3%). Patients aged 65 to 74 years had higher odds of readmission; those with private insurance had decreased odds. Sex did not affect readmission. Several comorbidities, such as respiratory failure, peripheral vascular disease, neurocognitive disorders, and neurologic blindness, were predictive of readmissions. Plasma exchange increased the odds of readmission, whereas intravenous immunoglobulin and immunomodulatory infusions, such as chemotherapies and monoclonal antibodies, did not affect readmission. The most common etiologies for 30-day read-mission were neurologic, infectious, and respiratory. Treatment targeted toward these etiologies may result in reduced overall readmission, thereby decreasing overall disease burden.

Association of Hospital Readmission Rates With Discharge Disposition for Patients With Psychotic Disorders.

We explored how readmissions may result from patients' lack of access to aftercare services, failure to adhere to psychotropic medication plans, and inability to understand and follow hospital discharge recommendations. We also investigated whether insurance status, demographics, and socioeconomic status are associated with hospital readmissions. This study is important because readmissions contribute to increased personal and hospital expenses and decreased community tenure (the ability to maintain stability between hospital admissions). Addressing hospital readmissions will promote optimal discharge practices beginning on day one of hospital admission. The study examined the differences in hospital readmission rates for patients with a primary psychotic disorder diagnosis. Discharge data were drawn in 2017 from the Nationwide Readmissions Database. Inclusion criteria included patients aged 0-89 years who were readmitted to a hospital between less than 24 hr and up to 30 days from discharge. Exclusion criteria were principal medical diagnoses, unplanned 30-day readmissions, and discharges against medical advice. The sampling frame included 269,906 weighted number of patients diagnosed with a psychotic disorder treated at one of 2,355 U.S. community hospitals. The sample size was 148,529 unweighted numbers of patients discharged. In a logistic regression model, weighted variables were calculated and used to determine an association between the discharge dispositions and readmissions. After controlling for hospital characteristics and patient demographics, we found that the odds for readmission for routine and short-term hospital discharge dispositions decreased for home health care discharges, which indicated that home health care can prevent readmissions. The finding was statistically significant when controlling for payer type and patient age and gender. The findings support home health care as an effective option for patients with severe psychosis. Home health care reduces readmissions and is recommended, when appropriate, as an aftercare service following inpatient hospitalization and may enhance the quality of patient care. Improving healthcare quality involves optimizing, streamlining, and promoting standardized processes in discharge planning and direct transitions to aftercare services.

A Parathyroid Hormone–Guided Calcium and Calcitriol Supplementation Protocol Reduces Hypocalcemia-Related Readmissions Following Total Thyroidectomy

ObjectiveTo determine the effect of a 4-hour postoperative serum parathyroid hormone (PTH)–guided calcium (Ca) and calcitriol supplementation protocol on the incidence of hypocalcemia and hospital readmissions in patients undergoing total thyroidectomy. MethodsThis was a single-institution, retrospective chart review of patients who underwent total thyroidectomy; 148 and 389 of the patients underwent surgery prior to and after the protocol implementation, respectively. The risk of hypocalcemia was stratified as low (PTH level of >30 pg/mL), medium (15-30 pg/mL), and high (<15 pg/mL), using serum PTH values obtained 4 hours postoperatively. Hypocalcemia was defined as a total serum Ca level of <8 mg/dL. Baseline demographic and operative characteristics and postoperative outcome were recorded for both groups. The Fisher exact test and Wilcoxon rank sum test were used to compare the characteristics of the 2 groups. A multivariate logistic regression model was applied to account for potentially confounding variables. ResultsPostoperative hypocalcemia occurred significantly less frequently in the protocol group compared with that in the preprotocol group (10.3% vs 20.9%, P = .002). The reduction in hypocalcemia in the protocol group was observed in both patients with (16.3% vs 25.6%) and without (8.4% vs 19.3%) cervical lymph node dissection. The protocol group had a significantly lower incidence of hospital readmission events than the preprotocol group (1.0% vs 4.7%, P = .013). ConclusionCompared with a historical cohort, a PTH-guided protocol for Ca and calcitriol supplementation significantly reduces the postoperative hypocalcemia and hospital readmission rates in patients undergoing total thyroidectomy.

Development of a 30-Day Readmission Risk Calculator for the Inpatient Rehabilitation Setting.

Readmission to acute care from the inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) setting is potentially preventable and an important target of quality improvement and cost savings. The objective of this study was to develop a risk calculator to predict 30-day all-cause readmissions from the IRF setting. Retrospective database analysis using the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation (UDSMR) from 2015 through2019. In total, 956 US inpatient rehabilitation facilities and 1,849,768 IRF discharges comprising patients from 14 impairment groups. Logistic regression models were developed to calculate risk-standardized 30-day all-cause hospital readmission rates for patients admitted to an IRF. Models for each impairment group were assessed using 12 common clinical and demographic variables and all but 4 models included various special variables. Models were assessed for discrimination (c-statistics), calibration (calibration plots), and internal validation (bootstrapping). A readmission risk scoring system was created for each impairment group population and was graphically validated. The mean age of the cohort was 68.7 (15.2) years, 50.7% were women, and 78.3% were Caucasian. Medicare was the primary payer for 73.1% of the study population. The final models for each impairment group included between 4 and 13 total predictor variables. Model c-statistics ranged from 0.65 to 0.70. There was good calibration represented for most models up to a readmission risk of 30%. Internal validation of the models using bootstrap samples revealed little bias. Point systems for determining risk of 30-day readmission were developed for each impairment group. Multivariable risk factor algorithms based upon administrative data were developed to assess 30-day readmission risk for patients admitted from IRF. This report represents the development of a readmission risk calculator for the IRF setting, which could be instrumental in identifying high risk populations for readmission and targeting resources towards a diverse group of IRF impairment groups.

S109 Can Household Income Predict the Rate of Readmission in Patients With Crohns Disease?

Background: Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease with unknown etiology. The impact of household income, a surrogate of socioeconomic status, on hospital readmission rates for patients with Crohn's disease has not been well characterized. We did this study to determine if this relationship exists so that gastroenterologists and hospitalists can better address healthcare disparities within their patients. Methods: The Nationwide Readmission Database (HCUP) was queried from 2019-2022. Data on hospital readmissions of 1,048,576 adults readmitted within 30 days was collected. After controlling for demographic and clinical confounders, we compared the income quartiles to determine household income's significance on the readmission rate. Results: A total of 1,048,576 patients were readmitted between 2019-2022. Of these, 15,438 (Mean age 56.4 ± 12.4, 57% women) patients were included after the propensity score matching. 7519 (48%) patients were Crohn's positive. After controlling for demographic and clinical confounders, patients in the lowest income quartiles were significantly more likely to be readmitted at 30 days compared to those in the highest quartile (first quartile, odds ratio [OR] 1.14, P < 0.01]; second quartile, OR 1.19, P < 0.01]; and third quartile, OR 1.65, P < 0.01]). The accuracy of quartile income was also significant for AUROC (0.664, P < 0.01). Conclusion(s): Patients with Crohn's disease residing in the lowest income quartiles had a 64% higher odds of hospital readmission at 30 days. Research is needed to determine if targeted interventions for high-risk patients decrease readmissions.

93. Weekend admission increases risk of readmissions following elective thoracolumbar spinal fusion

<h3>BACKGROUND CONTEXT</h3> Previous studies have investigated the impact of weekend admissions on patient outcomes for both emergency and elective procedures with conflicting results. These studies have utilized various outcome measures to assess the "weekend effect," including hospital readmission rates. <h3>PURPOSE</h3> The purpose of this study is to ascertain whether weekend admissions negatively impact patient outcomes as measured by hospital readmission rates for patients undergoing elective thoracolumbar spinal fusion surgery. <h3>STUDY DESIGN/SETTING</h3> This is a retrospective database study conducted using the 2016-2018 National Readmission Database (NRD), a database tracking discharge data from approximately 60% of all hospitalizations in the United States. Patient characteristics were obtained from the NRD, including initial admission day (weekday or weekend), readmission status, demographic information (sex and age), payer type, preoperative comorbidities, postoperative complications and discharge status. <h3>PATIENT SAMPLE</h3> Adult patients who underwent elective thoracolumbar spinal fusion were identified using ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM procedure codes. A total of 177,847 patients undergoing elective thoracolumbar spinal fusion surgery were identified, with 176,842 in the weekday admission cohort and 1,005 in the weekend admission cohort. <h3>OUTCOME MEASURES</h3> Primary outcome measures include 30-day and 90-day readmission rates for both cohorts. Differences in demographic characteristics, comorbidities, postoperative complications, and discharge status between the two cohorts are also reported. <h3>METHODS</h3> SciPy version 1.6.1 was used for all statistical analyses conducted. Univariate logistic regression was used to analyze the association between weekday or weekend admission status and 30-day or 90-day readmission rates. Multivariate logistic regression was used to adjust the regression analysis for sex, age, Medicare or Medicaid status, and comorbidity status. Preoperative and postoperative cohort characteristics were compared using univariate regression. <h3>RESULTS</h3> The 30-day readmission rate was 4.70% for the weekday cohort and 8.96% for the weekend cohort, and the 90-day readmission rate was 7.79% for the weekday cohort and 14.50% for the weekend cohort. Thirty-day readmissions were significantly greater for the weekend cohort after adjusting for sex, age, Medicare or Medicaid status, and comorbidity status (OR 2.00, 95% CI: 1.60-2.48; p <0.001), and 90-day readmissions were also greater for the weekend cohort after adjustment (OR 2.01, 95% CI: 1.68-2.40, p <0.001).Weekend admission patients are more likely to be male and have increased incidence of obesity (p <0.05), increased prevalence of DVT and postoperative infection (p <0.05),), and increased likelihood of being discharged against medical advice and discharged to skilled nursing facilities, intermediate care facilities, and other types of facilities (p <0.05). <h3>CONCLUSIONS</h3> Patients undergoing elective thoracolumbar spinal fusion surgery who are initially admitted on weekends are more likely to experience hospital readmission. The postoperative factors that differed the most between weekday and weekend admission patients were incidence of DVT and postoperative infection as well as nonroutine discharge status, including discharges against medical advice and discharges to various facilities. Therefore, these factors are potential areas of focus for reducing the impact of the "weekend effect" and improving outcomes for elective thoracolumbar spinal fusion. <h3>FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS</h3> This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.

25 Association Between Antimicrobials and 30-Day Hospital Readmission Rates in Patients With End-Stage Kidney Disease On Hemodialysis

25 Association Between Antimicrobials and 30-Day Hospital Readmission Rates in Patients With End-Stage Kidney Disease On Hemodialysis

Abstract TP37: Teach-back Method And Hospital Readmission

Introduction: The transitions of care can be stressful and challenging to the AIS survivors and their families as each adjusts to unfamiliar roles. During care transitions, patients are faced with self-care challenges that can often lead to unplanned readmission. Patient education is an essential component of supporting the patient and family in preventing secondary stroke and promoting self-management. However, 40-80% of the medical information during education sessions is forgotten immediately, and can be misunderstood. Hypothesis: The researcher hypothesized that age of ≥ 75 years old; LOS ≥ 5 days; the presence of multiple modifiable risk factors; a NIHSS score ≥ 5; discharge destination to a SNF; and/or a high LACE score are the characteristics that will be seen most often among AIS patients with a 30-day readmission. The researcher also hypothesized that patient education using the teach-back method will decrease all-cause 30-day hospital readmission rates of patients with AIS. Method: A chart review of 955 medical records over 2 years was collected using a researcher-designed spreadsheet. Data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics using measures of central tendency, Mann-Whitney, and Chi-Square Comparison. Results: The research study showed a high readmission rate on patients with a LOS ≥ six days (p=.006), discharge destination to SNF (p=.008), NIHSS score of ≥ 6 points (p=.03), and high LACE score (p=.008). However, there is a weak correlation between each variable and readmission. There was no significant difference in readmission rate between the pre-intervention group (3.3%) and the post-intervention group (4.35%) (p = .40). Conclusion: The researcher concluded that patient characteristics such as a higher length of stay, discharge to a SNF, high NIHSS score, and high LACE score can influence the risk of readmission. Since the contributing factors to 30-day hospital readmission are complex and multifactorial, identification of high-risk patients may allow opportunities for specific interventions such as patient education using the teach-back method. However, interventions must be patient, and family-centered, and targeted at the transitions of care.

Comparison of inpatient spending and readmission rates for patients treated by male versus female physicians in China: An observational study.

To determine whether there are significant differences in costs of treatment and readmission rates for hospital consultations undertaken by female versus male physicians in China. Using data from the Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance program from January 2018 through October 2019, we investigated spending patterns and clinical outcomes for patients at tertiary hospitals in one of the largest cities in China by the gender of the attending physician. Our sample included 79,085 hospitalizations treated by 3993 physicians in internal medicine departments. We examined the association between physician gender and visit cost using a multivariable linear model. We examined the association between physician gender and 30-days readmission rates using a multivariable probability model. We adjusted for a rich set of patient characteristics, primary diagnosis fixed effects, and hospital fixed effects. In addition, we used patient fixed effects in a robustness analysis. Adjusting for primary diagnosis fixed effects, spending per visit was 4.1% higher for patients treated by male physicians than for those treated by female physicians, a statistically significant difference (95% CI [1.5%, 6.7%]). This pattern persisted after further adjusting for hospital fixed effects (3.2% [1.2%, 5.2%]), patient characteristics (3.2% [1.2%, 5.1%]), and patient fixed effects (4.2% [1.8%, 6.7%]). The difference is mainly driven by higher spending on drugs (8.7% [3.9%, 13.6%]) and out-of-pocket costs (3.9% [1.7%, 6.0%]). No statistically significant differences were observed in the readmission rates of patients treated by male and female physicians in any of our three model specifications. Spending per visit was significantly higher among patients treated by male physicians than among those treated by female physicians, with the difference mainly driven by spending on drugs and out-of-pocket costs. No significant difference was observed in the hospital readmission rates of patients treated by male and female physicians. These findings have important implications for gender equality in medicine and health care quality and efficiency in developing countries.

Abstract 16892: Impact of Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis on Hospital Readmission Rates in Patients With Acute Proximal and Caval Deep Vein Thrombosis

Objective: To evaluate the readmission rate and identify the predictors of rehospitalization in patients with acute proximal and caval DVT. Background: Acute Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in the US that affects more than 600,000 patients each year. Catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) is a minimally invasive treatment option that improve acute symptoms as well as quality of life of patients with acute DVT. Methods: Patients with index hospitalization for acute proximal and caval DVT between 2016 and 2017 in the U.S. Nationwide Readmission Database were evaluated for the rates, predictors, and costs of unplanned readmission at 30 days. We used Cox proportional hazard model to determine predictors of 30 days readmissions. Results: This analysis included 58,306 patients (age&gt;=18 years) with index hospitalization for acute proximal and caval DVT; 8589 (14.7%) were readmitted within 30 days. The significant predictors for 30 day unplanned readmission were Malignancy (HR 1.60, 1.41-1.81), Charlson comorbidity index &gt; 3 (HR 1.43, 1.30-1.57), Insurance Medicare vs Private(HR 1.39, 1.25-1.57), Length of stay more than 2 days (HR 1.34, 1.24-1.45), and Acute Kidney Injury (HR 1.28, 1.17-1.40), COPD (HR 1.25, 1.13-1.38), Age (HR 0.77,0.70-0.85), Catheter directed thrombolysis ( HR 0.83, 0.76-0.90), and Acute Pulmonary Embolism(HR 0.83, 0.76-0.90)(Figure1). The cost of readmission was higher than index hospitalization ($ 56733 vs $ 47396). Conclusion: The 30 days readmission rate continue to be high in patients with acute DVT. Patient’s characteristics and comorbid conditions are predictors of readmission. Use of Catheter directed thrombolysis for treatment of acute DVT predicts reduced readmission risk.

Impact of catheter ablation for atrial flutter on mortality and hospital readmission rates in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction

Abstract Background The effectiveness of catheter ablation as a management modality amongst patients with coexisting atrial flutter (AFL) and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is scarcely studied. Methods Appropriate ICD 10 codes were applied to the 2016 and 2017 National Readmission Database (NRD) to isolate patients having coexistent AFL and HFrEF including who had undergone an ablation. All-cause mortality at the end of 1 year was used as a primary outcome. Readmission due to AFL, heart failure (HF) and other causes were secondary outcomes. The hazard ratios were generated using Cox regression analysis while the time to event analysis was demonstrated with the Kaplan Meier curves. Results Out of a total of 9966 patients with AFL and HFrEF, 1980 (24.79%) patients underwent catheter ablation. The primary outcome, all-cause mortality (2.8% vs. 4.6%, HR: 0.610, 95% CI: 0.460–0.808, p=0.001) at the end of 1 year was significantly lower. Significant difference was also noted amongst two groups when it came to secondary outcomes such as readmissions due to AFL (1.6% vs. 6.3%, HR: 0.247, 95% CI: 0.173–0.354, p&amp;lt;0.001), HF (8.2% vs. 11.4%, HR: 0.693, 95% CI: 0.587–0.819, p&amp;lt;0.001) and other causes (29.4% vs. 37.1%, HR: 0.735, 95% CI: 0.673–0.804, p&amp;lt;0.001) Conclusion Ablative intervention amongst AFL patients with concomitant HFrEF showed a significant reduction in all-cause mortality. It also leads to significant reductions in readmissions due to AFL, HF and other causes at the end of one year. Outcomes of AFL and HFrEF Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

The Effects of a Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Outpatient Diabetes Program on Hospital Readmission Rates in Patients with Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Prospective Study

The diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of hospital readmissions. The goal of this study was to determine whether there was a difference in the rates of 30-day and 365-day hospital readmissions between diabetic patients who, upon their discharge, received diabetes care in a standard primary care setting and those who received their care in a specialized multidisciplinary diabetes program. This was a randomized controlled prospective study. One hundred and ninety two consecutive patients were recruited into the study, 95 (49%) into standard care (control group) and 97 (51%) into a multidisciplinary diabetes program (intervention group). The 30-day overall hospital readmission rates (including both emergency department and hospital readmissions) were 19% in the control group and 7% in the intervention group (P = .02). The 365-day overall hospital readmission rates were 38% in the control group and 14% in the intervention group (P = .0002). Patients with diabetes who are assigned to a specialized multidisciplinary diabetes program upon their discharge exhibit significantly reduced hospital readmission rates at 30 days and 365 days after discharge.

Impact of catheter ablation for atrial flutter on mortality and hospital readmission rates in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction

Abstract Background The availability of real-world data regarding the impact of the catheter ablation in patients with concomitant atrial flutter (AFL) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is limited. Methods 2016 and 2017 National Readmission Database (NRD) was subjected to appropriate ICD-10 codes to identify and extract patients having coexistent atrial flutter and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction including who had undergone ablation. At 1 year, all-cause mortality was utilized as the primary outcome while readmissions due to AFL, heart failure (HF) and any other causes were designated as secondary outcomes. Kaplan Meier curves were used for a time to event analysis. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to generate hazard ratios. Results Out of a total 6099 patients with AFL and HFpEF, 906 (14.85%) underwent catheter ablation. At 1 year all cause mortality (3%, vs. 4.4%, HR: 0.661, 95% CI: 0.444–0.985, p=0.042) and readmissions due to AFL (2.3% vs. 5.3%, HR: 0.424, 95% CI: 0.272–0.661, p&amp;lt;0.001) were significantly less among ablation group. Readmission due to HF (9.3% vs. 9.7%, HR: 0.938, 95% CI: 0.745–1.182, p=0.587) and other causes (37% vs.40.3%, HR: 0.926, 95% CI: 0.825–1.040, p=0.193) did not show any significant difference in outcomes at the end of 1 year. Conclusion The utilization of catheter ablation amongst AFL patients with concomitant HFpEF showed a significant reduction in all-cause mortality and readmission due to AFL. However, it did not show any significant changes in readmissions due to HF or other causes at the end of one year. Outcomes of AFL and HFpEF Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

S3283 Reducing Hospital Readmission Rates of Cirrhotics Using Nutrition Counseling

INTRODUCTION: There are over 150,000 hospitalizations yearly for decompensated cirrhosis and other related complications with an annual cost around $4 billion. There is an estimated 20–37% 30-day readmission rate for patients with complications of cirrhosis. Malnutrition and sarcopenia occurs in 20-50% of cirrhotics and may lead to infection, encephalopathy, ascites and increased mortality. Per EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines 2019, “..all patients with advanced liver disease, and in particular those patients with decompensated cirrhosis, are advised to undergo a nutritional screen.” In a study by Sriram et al in 2016, a nutrition focused quality improvement program (QIP) led to an absolute reduction of 30-day readmission rate post-QIP of the rate of about 4.7 to 3.9%, which corresponded to a significant relative risk reduction of 19.5% (P = 0.001, n = 174 for GI disease). The purpose of this project is to standardize referrals to dieticians for patients diagnosed with cirrhosis. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed on 16 patients with cirrhosis admitted to the academic teaching service in February 2019. Some of the patients received nutrition counseling during their hospitalization. All patients had MELD scores < 20 correlating with a 3-4% mortality in 90-days. The patients were reviewed were followed up until they were readmitted. over a 30 day to > 90-day period for readmissions. RESULTS: Given the small cohort of patients, a qualitative retrospective chart review of 16 patients admitted for cirrhosis related complication was completed. Almost 75% (n = 12) of these patients did not receive nutrition counseling during their hospitalization, while 25% (n = 4) of these patients received nutrition counseling. 62.5% (10/16) of the patients who did not receive nutrition counseling were readmitted within 6 months, 9 of which were readmitted within 30 days 68.8% (11/16) (Figure 2). None of the patients who received nutrition counseling were readmitted (0/4) (P = 0.014). The most common reasons for readmission were ascites (n = 3), bleeding (n = 3), encephalopathy (n = 2), or related complications (n = 2). CONCLUSION: Patients with cirrhosis may benefit from inpatient nutrition counseling. There should be clear definitions of clinicians' role in delivering nutrition care, routine screening of all patients for malnutrition risk factors, and early interventions when risk is identified. More effective utilization of nutrition counseling may lead to lower hospital readmission rates in patients with cirrhosis.Figure 1.: A process flow map demonstrating the policies and procedures relating nutrition counseling for patients with cirrhosis.Figure 2.: Timeline for readmissions in February 2019 of cirrhotic patients during their initial decompensating event.

Refining interprofessional, outpatient transitions of care services to reduce hospital readmissions.

Transitions of care between healthcare facilities are associated with increased risk of adverse events and hospital readmissions. Previous studies employing pharmacists in transitions of care showed reduced 30-day readmissions, however, many were without an active comparator. There is no standardized approach to pharmacist involvement in transitions of care services, making it difficult to ascertain where pharmacist expertise is most meaningful. This paper aims to compare the 30-day hospital readmissions between an interprofessional hospital discharge visit (iHDV) with physician and pharmacist involvement to a non-interprofessional HDV (PHDV) without pharmacist involvement. This was a retrospective quality improvement initiative examining patients of two outpatient clinical practices within a large, academic medical centre. The primary analysis compared 30-day hospital readmission rates for patients with a scheduled PHDV or iHDV within 30-days of index hospital discharge date, regardless of attendance at the HDV. The secondary outcome compared 30-day hospital readmission rates for patients who completed a PHDV or iHDV. Primary and secondary outcomes were evaluated using bivariate analysis and multivariate analysis by stepwise logistic regression, for both intention-to-treat (ITT) and per protocol (PP). This study found significantly lower 30-day hospital readmissions for patients scheduled for a PHDV compared to an iHDV (16.7% vs 21.5%, P = .0230) in an unadjusted analysis, but no significant difference in adjusted analyses (P = .4856). Per-protocol analysis found no significant difference in 30-day hospital readmission rates between groups in unadjusted and adjusted analyses. Visit completion rates were significantly different between groups, with approximately twice as many PHDV group patients completing visits as compared to the iHDV group (74.1% vs 61.5%, P < .0001). This study demonstrates an interprofessional clinic visit employing a clinical pharmacist in the post-hospital discharge visit did not significantly reduce 30-day hospital readmission rates compared to a post-hospital discharge visit without pharmacist involvement.