Testing the efficacy of a nurse-led, patient self-management intervention to decrease rehospitalization in older adults

Abstract

<p>Rehospitalization rates of 20% within 30 days of hospital discharge and 27% within 60 days are one of the highest strains on the federal Medicare budget. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has responded by imposing financial disincentives in reimbursement regulations directed to those providers deemed responsible for preventable rehospitalizations. Identifying cost-effective interventions that are appropriate for individuals with chronic illnesses that may be provided within the current home health care system of reimbursement is critical. The purpose of this quasi-scientific intervention study was to test the efficacy of a cost-effective, nurse-led intervention to decrease rehospitalizations of community dwelling older adult Medicare beneficiaries receiving certified home health services following an acute care hospital admission. The intervention was based on Eric Coleman's Care Transition Intervention SM utilizing a personal health record, patient goal setting, and knowledge of "red flags" or changes in condition. Coaching by the home care nurses was added to Coleman's intervention to facilitate support of patient self-management. Three home care agencies, 60 clinicians and 87 patients participated in the study. Findings demonstrated a lower rate of readmission to the hospital in patients receiving the intervention. However, it was not statistically significant. Significant differences were noted between the intervention and the comparison groups including more married or partnered members and higher Case Mix Weight (CMW) or acuity score within the intervention group. Among the rehospitalized participants, provision of a greater number of skilled nursing visits was found. Future replication of the study should include a larger sample and greater time for education of the clinical staff. Inclusion of therapists and productivity adjustments for participating staff during initiation of study is also needed. Further examination of the role of depression in rehospitalization with a larger sample would provide greater understanding of the role depression plays in self-management and rehospitalization.</p>