The clock is ticking on readmission penalties.
Hospital leaders who are considering initiatives to reduce readmissions by improving discharge processes and postdischarge care should begin with five action steps: Ascertain the hospital's Medicare 30-day readmission rates from July 1, 2011, to June 30, 2012. Based on these numbers, estimate the potential readmission penalties the organization may face. Identify a clear strategy or program for the organization to reduce 30-day readmissions and avoid Medicare penalties. Determine the overall direct and indirect costs of this strategy or program. Calculate the potential ROI of the initiative.
Avery Telehealth, Scottsdale, Ariz., USA. maspenson@averytelehealth.com
Mark
M
Aspenson
Sunil
S
Hazary
D035881:Compensation and Redress / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D004469:Economics, Hospital; D006801:Humans; D010359:Patient Readmission / Q000191:economics*; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care / Q000191:economics*; D014481:United States