Evaluation of the Impact of Discharge Clinic Follow-Up Interventions on 30-Day Readmission Rates

Care transition programs can result in cost avoidance and decreased resource utilization. This project aimed to determine whether implementation of a discharge clinic, referral to a community paramedicine program, or a second postdischarge call affected 30-day readmission rates. This single-center retrospective exploratory design study included 727 discharged patients without access to a primary care provider who were scheduled for a discharge clinic transitions appointment. Readmission rates were 17.7% for those who completed a discharge appointment and 24.7% for those who did not; 4% for those completing a second postdischarge call and 26% for those who did not; and 11.1% for those referred to a community paramedicine program and 24.9% for those not referred. A completed discharge clinic appointment resulted in 36% lower odds of readmission. A completed discharge clinic appointment was effective in reducing 30-day readmission rates as was a follow-up call.