Factors Associated With Successful Enrollment in a Community Paramedicine Program for Heart Failure

Introduction Participation in community paramedicine (CP) programs, sometimes referred to as Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH), may improve patient-centered outcomes and reduce hospital readmissions. The objective of this study was to correlate patient and system-specific factors with successful enrollment in a CP program for heart failure.  Methods We conducted a retrospective review of patients enrolled in a CP program after hospitalization for a heart failure-related diagnosis. All patients greater than 18 years of age referred to the CP program with a heart-failure-related diagnosis were included. Factors including age, sex, hospital length of stay, enrollment method, concurrent use of transitional care services, care team, and service line referral were collected. The primary outcome was successful enrollment which led to an initial home visit. Chi-square and t-tests were performed to determine if the outcome differed between cohorts.  Results A total of 908 patients met the inclusion criteria, and 677 (74.7%) received home visits. Increased participation was noted in patients enrolled in person (81.1% vs. 66%, p<0.01) and those also receiving transitional care services (78.9% vs. 62.5%, p<0.01).  Conclusion We conclude that efforts should be made to contact patients in person, prior to hospital discharge, who are eligible for CP services.