Study: Reduced readmissions not linked to increased deaths

While the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has led to fewer 30-day readmissions, this reduction in readmissions does not correlate with 30-day mortality rates, according to a JAMA study.

The study examined more than 5 million Medicare admissions from 2008–2014 for heart failure, acute myocardial infarction, and pneumonia, all of which are conditions examined under the ACA. The study revealed that 30-day readmission and mortality rates were “were weakly but significantly correlated.”

Researchers concluded that an increase in post-discharge death rates would not result in a reduction in readmission rates. In fact, the lead study author stated in an announcement that reduced readmissions may actually lead to a decrease in post-discharge deaths in some cases. This may be because many hospitals have increased their focus on hospital and post-hospital care by better preparing patients for discharge, following up with patients in a timelier manner, and communicating more effectively with outpatient providers, according to the lead author.