Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Dissertation - MUSC Only

Degree Name

Doctor of Health Administration

College

College of Health Professions

First Advisor

Jami L. Jones

Second Advisor

Abby Kazley

Third Advisor

Michael Watson

Abstract

The reduction of 30- day readmissions serves as a measurement of good patient outcomes, minimization of adverse events and financial stability for a healthcare system. In May, 2017 WakeMed Health & Hospitals implemented a Transitional Health Practice (THP) as a strategy to address readmissions of the high-risk patient population. The primary objective of this retrospective study was to examine the impact of the Transitional Health Practice on the high- risk patient referred to the program in year 2 regarding 30 -day and then 90- day readmission rates. Secondary objective was to discuss the impact of the program on cost savings to the hospital system. This study utilized de-identified data to conduct a retrospective chart review of uninsured admitted patients 2015 and 2018 totaling 2781. T- Test analysis was conducted to compare admission rates (30/90 day) 2015 before THP with admission rates (30/90 day) post THP. Aggregate hospital charges were reviewed to determine cost- savings driven by the program. Results showed the Transitional Health practice reduced 30- day readmission rates by 8% with estimated cost savings over 33 million dollars. The study also reveals less of an impact of the program on readmission rates at 90 days.

Rights

All rights reserved. Copyright is held by the author.

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