Abstract 214: Multidisciplinary Approach to Improve Process Measures and Prevent Heart Failure Readmissions

Background: Approximately 5.2 million Americans have heart failure (HF). HF morbidity and mortality is high, and 27% of patients are readmitted at 1 month and 50% at six months. Objective: To determine the effect of a multidisciplinary approach on Hospital Quality Alliance (HQA) performance and 30-day HF readmission rates. Methods: A one year, prospective, observational study on the effect of a multidisciplinary approach on 30-day HF readmissions was performed and compared to the prior year’s readmission rate at a University affiliated community hospital. HF patients were identified by case and unit nurse managers, who also screened for intravenous diuretic use to determine if patients had HF but were admitted under another diagnosis. HF patients were clustered geographically where daily multidisciplinary rounds with the unit nurse and care manager, pharmacist, social worker, nutritionist, medical and nursing staff took place. The goal was to ensure compliance with the established HQA Performance Measures, initiate appropriate discharge planning, and assess functional status. Patients were educated on 2 gram sodium diet, 2 liter fluid restriction, daily weight monitoring, and smoking cessation. Follow-up appointments with their PCP or cardiologist were scheduled. Upon discharge, nursing and medical staff provided medication and home management instructions. The patient’s PCP was called by the attending physician or cardiovascular fellow as well as the Skilled Nurse Facility, Rehabilitation, and Home Care staff, when applicable. Targeted in-home support immediately following discharge from the hospital was provided. High risk patient had an in-home 2-3 day post discharge visit by VNA and a Pharmacist to access their weight, medications, and physical activity progress. Results: During the intervention year, 355 CHF patients were discharged and compared to 318 patients in the year prior. The 30 day readmissions were reduced from 79 (24.8 %) to 64 (18.03%), p = 0.04 by Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test. The Heart Failure National Inpatient Quality Measures performance increased from 95% ± 3.8% (2010) to 99.6% ± 0.5% (2011) - p = 0.008 . Conclusions: With implementation of penalties by Medicare in 2013 for 30 day HF readmissions, strategies to reduce them are critical. A comprehensive intervention involving multiple specialties and appropriate patients’ disposition can reduce 30-day readmission rates as well as improve Heart Failure National Inpatient Quality Performance Measures. Further evaluation of this treatment approach, including an assessment of cost-effectiveness, is warranted.