Evaluation of a Discharge Medication Assistance Program (DMAP) to Reduce Psychiatric Readmissions

Abstract

Problem: Up to 29% of those with a mental illness are readmitted to a psychiatric hospital within 30 days. Hospital readmissions to inpatient psychiatric hospitals are costly, averaging $7,200 per readmission. Major challenges of inpatient psychiatric care are nonadherence to medication and transition of follow-up care upon discharge. Further limitations are experienced when the patient is without health insurance and can result in a cycle of repeated psychiatric admissions. Project Aim: The Donabedian Model guided the primary aim of this Quality Improvement (QI) project which was to determine if a Discharge Medication Assistance Program (DMAP) at CoxHealth in Springfield, Missouri reduced the 30-day readmission rates on three inpatient psychiatric units. Project Method: A retrospective analysis of discharge and 30-day readmission data from January 2018 through June 2018. Findings: Patients discharged on DMAP had 12% lower readmission rates than those not on DMAP. Clinical Implications: Psychiatric programs that provide medications to patients at discharge can reduce 30-day readmission rates.