Hospital readmission decreased 50 percent when pharmacists reviewed patients' medication regimens and provided counseling during transitions from hospital to home, Woonsocket, R.I.-based CVS Health Research Institute found.
Researchers analyzed readmissions of more than 260 members of a national health plan hospitalized over a five-month period. Readmission rates for patients enrolled in medication reconciliation programs were compared with those not enrolled.
Here are 6 key study findings:
1. Overall risk of hospital readmission fell from 22 percent to 11 percent for those in the medication reconciliation program.
2. Risk of hospital readmission at 30 days was reduced by 50 percent for those in the medication reconciliation program.
3. The medication reconciliation program saved $2 for every $1 spent on the program, with savings totaling more than $1,300 per person.
4. One in seven patients readmits to a hospital within 30 days of discharge.
5. Sixty-six percent of hospital readmissions result from medication non-adherence.
6. Hospital readmissions cost more than $41 billion per year.
More articles about healthcare quality:
Team communication training improves perception of safety culture
Illinois hospital receives AHA's top award for safety and quality
Zika epidemic will end in 3 years, scientists predict