Reducing readmission rates in inpatient settings

ABSTRACTThe provision of good quality and cost effective mental healthcare remains a significant public health issue. The objective of this study was to improve the transition from inpatient to outpatient aftercare services, thereby reducing readmission rates. A total of 1,707 patients in acute inpatient psychiatry units participated in the intervention program over a period of 12 months. The readmission was reduced by 27 percent (9.54% to 6.95%, p = 0.004). The data suggest that these modalities significantly lower readmission rates and therefore improve the cost effectiveness and quality of mental health care.