Reducing readmissions through medication reconciliation program in primary care

Abstract

<p>Background: Hospital readmissions are a major expenditure within our healthcare system. Poor medication adherence and literacy greatly increases the risk of readmission. To combat this problem insurance payors incentivize prompt and effective post discharge medication reconciliation and education. </p> <p>Objective: To develop and implement a protocol in a primary care clinic utilizing a proven medication assessment tool to improve patient understanding resulting in improved readmission outcomes, medication literacy, and self-management regarding patient medication adherence. </p> <p>Methods: The project was conducted in two parts over a six month time frame. Initially, data was collected using web-based insurance portals for a two months for patients of an independent primary care clinic. Next, a protocol was developed to increase the capture and scheduling of recently discharged patients. Once in the clinic the Self-Assessment of Medication (SAM) tool was administered to quantify a patients understanding of their medication regimen. </p> <p>Results: Results did not show statistical significance among reducing hospital readmissions within the primary care clinic. However, more patients were identified in the SAM tool cohort and were readmitted at a lower rate. </p> <p>Conclusions: The findings of this project indicate that prompt and effective medication reconciliation and patient education in a primary care setting following hospitalization can positively effect readmission rates where no current policy exist. </p>