In order to prevent reduced Medicare reimbursements under CMS’ Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program and being penalized under CMS’ Hospital Value-Based Purchasing Program for having high rates of preventable readmissions, the author suggests 10 proven ways hospitals can reduce their number of preventable readmissions:
- Understand which patient populations are at greatest risk of readmissions.
- Target patients with limited English proficiency.
- Participate in incentive programs with payors.
- Join a readmission prevention-focused collaborative.
- Ensure patients schedule a seven-day follow-up.
- Implement a robust home healthcare program.
- Ensure smooth transitional care.
- Clearly communicate post-discharge instructions.
- Install telemonitoring technology in the homes of chronically ill patients.
- Effectively staff nurses during patient care.