Patients with cognitive impairment who suffered heart failure are less likely to be readmitted within 30 days when given an impairment assessment and follow-up care from a psychological health liaison, according to a study in the American Journal of Managed Care.
The study examined congenital heart failure patients admitted to the Henry Ford Hospital cardiology teaching service in Detroit. Patients were identified for cognitive impairment and then asked if they'd like to enroll in a program to help them stay healthy after discharge. Patients who were assessed and received follow-up care had a readmission rate of 16 percent. The hospitalwide rate was 22.8 percent.
Cognitive impairment is prevalent in patients with chronic illness and comorbidities associated with high readmission rates. The study suggests that actively addressing the impairment throughout care can lead to lower 30 day readmission rates and better clinical outcomes.
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