Summarize the Problem and Its Potential Impact

NHS FPX 6008 Assessment 3

The economic issue of high hospital readmission rates due to environmental factors leading to chronic diseases presents a profound challenge that extends beyond the confines of healthcare facilities. At its core, this issue affects patients, healthcare practitioners, healthcare organizations, and the broader community. For us, as healthcare professionals, it means grappling with the relentless cycle of treating patients with chronic conditions only to see them return shortly after discharge, often due to factors beyond our control (Holmen et al., 2020). This constant cycle can be emotionally draining and lead to frustration and helplessness among colleagues. Moreover, it significantly strains our resources and time, making it increasingly challenging to provide quality care to all patients.

NHS FPX 6008 Assessment 3 Business case for change

From an organizational perspective, high hospital readmission rates translate into increased costs, decreased efficiency, and potential reputational damage. It erodes the organisation’s financial stability and hampers its ability to invest in crucial areas such as staff training, technology upgrades, and facility improvements (Allioui & Mourdi, 2023). Furthermore, it undermines the organization’s reputation within the community, potentially losing trust and credibility among patients and stakeholders.

NHS FPX 6008 Assessment 3 Capella University

Beyond the confines of the healthcare setting, the impact of this economic issue reverberates throughout the community. It perpetuates health disparities, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged groups, who bear the brunt of the burden (Parry et al., 2019). High readmission rates exacerbate existing inequalities in access to quality healthcare and contribute to poor health outcomes and financial hardship(Zumbrunn et al., 2022). Addressing this issue is about improving healthcare delivery and promoting equity, resilience, and well-being within our communities.

NHS FPX 6008 Assessment 3 Capella University

The feasibility and cost-benefit considerations of addressing the economic issue of high hospital readmission rates due to environmental factors leading to chronic diseases are critical for healthcare organizations. Implementing solutions to reduce readmissions requires an investment of financial, human, and technological (Upadhyay et al., 2019). However, the potential benefits far outweigh the costs. For instance, reducing readmission rates improves patient outcomes and leads to significant cost savings for healthcare organizations. According to recent data, the average price of a single hospital readmission in the United States ranges from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on the condition and severity (Healthcare Insights, 2023) (Feuerstadt et al., 2023). By implementing effective interventions to prevent readmissions, healthcare organizations can avoid these substantial costs while improving patient care.

Three key strategies can be employed to mitigate risks to the financial security of the organization or healthcare setting. Investing in preventative care and patient education programs can significantly reduce the likelihood of readmissions. For example, allocating resources towards comprehensive discharge planning, medication reconciliation, and post-discharge follow-up can help patients better manage their conditions at home, reducing readmission (Gonçalves-Bradley et al., 2022). Leveraging technology to improve care coordination and communication among healthcare providers can enhance efficiency and effectiveness in managing patients with chronic diseases. Electronic health records, telemedicine platforms, and remote monitoring devices can facilitate seamless care transitions and early intervention, ultimately reducing the risk of readmissions (Dawson et al., 2021). Promoting partnerships with community-based organizations and social service agencies can help address the social determinants of health that often contribute to readmissions. By collaborating with local agencies to provide access to housing, transportation, and social support services, healthcare organizations can better meet the holistic needs of patients and prevent unnecessary hospitalizations.