A study of the Characteristics of Readmitted Patients in an University Hospital in Korea

Hong, Joon-Hyun

Journal of Korean Society Quality Assurance Health Care 1996;2(2): 56.
Published online April 30, 1996.

재입원 환자의 특성연구

홍준현

세브란스병원 의무기록과

A study of the Characteristics of Readmitted Patients in an University Hospital in Korea

Joon-Hyun Hong

Medical Record Department, Severance Hospital Yonsei University Medical Center

Abstract

Background
Review of readmissions in health care facilities is necessary from the viewpoint of both economic concerns and quality considerations. To identify the characteristics, factors, and causes of multiple admissions in comparison with single admissions is essential for both providers and payers in order to assure quality care and efficient use of medical resources.
Methods
All discharges from an university hospital in 1993 were analyzed, and the characteristics of multiple admissions were identified and were compared with those of single admissions by using the data bases of the discharge abstract and billing for reimbursement. Medical records of patients readmitted within 6 days after the previous discharge were reviewed to identify the reasons for such prompt readmission. Statistical analysis between groups of patients were performed by using SPSS.
Result
The mean age was higher in multiple admissions than those of single admissions, and the average length of stay was longer in multiple admissions than in single admissions. The hospital cost per day is higher in single admissions while the cost per case is higher in multiple admissions. More than half of readmissions occurred within one month after the preceding discharges. Above 15% of the readmission within 6 days after the preceding discharges seemed to have close relationship with quality of care provided during the preceding hospitalization. The death rate of the patients readmitted within 6 days was the highest in comparison with multiple admissions and single admissions.
Conclusion
Potential preventable readmissions should be reduced by identifying characteristics of multiple admissions, especially unplanned readmission, and by applying some interventions such as standard predischarge assessment or careful follow-up care after discharge for high risk readmission groups. As the results of these efforts, health care facilities could achieve quality improvement in medical care, and effective use of hospital resources.

Key words multiple admissions;single admissions;average length of stay;hospital cost per day and per case;top 10 diagnoses;