Solving the hypothetical case of the great rates of CMS readmissions penalty in the hospital, it is needed to consider several factors associated with the issue. As readmissions are often recognized as “quality of care barometers,” it is crucial to analyze the situation with three years penalties cycle. In this position, the readmission issue should follow several easily available indicators and provide the ground to compare hospitals’ performance. Usually, hospitals initially present readmission reduction strategies used to reduce the given problem. However, these methods could not be effective in addressing the given issue. To precisely identify the readmission rate and set an appropriate strategy, the LACE index should be used. It covers four parameters: “L” is for the length of stay, “A” is for the acuity, “C” is for co-morbidities, and “E” is for emergency department visits. The score varies between 1 and 19 and, in the given case, is most likely to be above 10.
Reducing the number of readmissions requires complex measures that all departments should support. Firstly, it is necessary to identify the average length and hold measures that help to shorten the readmission period. The next step is to conduct sessions regarding the number of acute patients and prepare a special scenario to treat them. Following that, it is needed to statistically rate the mortality rate and people delivered to the emergency department. After receiving the statistical data necessary to conduct an investigation, all entities of effective healthcare should be revised. Moreover, training and performance discussions on readmission cases based on the LACE scale should be performed with medical personnel. Additionally, it would be convenient to develop a special strategy to eliminate this type of problem. The issue requires comprehensive actions and cooperation of both the administrative and professional units of the hospital.