Palliative Medicine Consultation Reduces Readmission Significantly in Certain Diagnoses: A Retrospective Analysis.

Abstract

Hospital readmissions within 30 days are a significant concern due to their negative impact on patient outcomes and healthcare system costs.¹ This retrospective study explores the impact of palliative medicine consultation on reducing readmission rates for patients with severe, life-limiting illnesses. Real-world data from a 21-hospital system was analyzed for six specific diagnoses, including heart failure, sepsis, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The study found a statistically significant reduction in readmissions for patients with sepsis, pneumonia, heart failure and (to a lesser extent) stroke who received palliative medicine consultation compared to those who did not. The findings suggest that palliative medicine consultation for these patients leads to reduced readmission and implies potential improved quality outcomes and cost savings. This study highlights the potential of palliative medicine as a multifactorial approach to reduce readmissions and potentially improve patient outcomes in the future.