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“Patients with cardiopulmonary disease, particularly those with congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, are particularly vulnerable to re-hospitalization, especially during the transitional period after they first arrive home,” said Lafe Bush, a paramedic and Director of Emergency Services at Valley.
For example, the 30-day readmission rate for patients with heart failure is nearly 25 percent, and the majority of readmissions occur within 15 days of hospitalization, according to a study of Medicare data published earlier this year. The program targets those patients with cardiopulmonary disease at high risk for readmission who either refuse or do not qualify for home care services.
The team provides a full assessment of the patient, including a physical exam, a safety survey of the patient’s home, medication education, reinforcement of discharge instructions and confirmation that the patient has made an appointment for a follow-up visit with his or her physician.
The Mobile Integrated Healthcare Program complements Valley Home Care’s comprehensive roster of services, which include skilled nursing care, rehabilitation therapy, cardiac home care, Valley Hospice, certified home health aides, diabetes support services, and hospital to home care coordination and more.
