The Utilization of 15-Minute Multidisciplinary Rounds to Reduce Length of Stay in Patients under Observation Status

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Hospital Administration
• Value-Based Care

Background:

• Value-based care models necessitate efficient patient management, particularly for observation status patients.
• Observation status significantly impacts hospital expenses and patient costs.
• Specialized observation units and structured care pathways are emerging strategies to address these challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of daily multidisciplinary rounds (MDR) on the length of stay (LOS) for observation patients.
• To identify barriers and interventions contributing to LOS reduction.
• To evaluate the financial implications of optimized observation patient management.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of daily "Observation Huddles" led by hospital leaders for patients aged 18+ under observation status.
• Study period: January 2020 to 2022, coinciding with the initiation of MDR.
• Analysis of LOS changes and associated cost savings.

Main Results:

• A significant reduction in LOS for observation patients, from 29 hours to 20 hours (p < 0.001).
• Average cost savings of approximately USD 187.50 per patient.
• Projected total savings ranging from USD 828,187.50 in 2020 to USD 1,243,562.50 in 2022.

Conclusions:

• Daily multidisciplinary rounds are effective in reducing LOS for observation patients.
• This intervention leads to substantial cost savings for the institution.
• Optimizing observation patient care pathways is crucial for financial and operational efficiency in value-based care.