Strategies to Reduce Unnecessary Emergency Room Visits
Unnecessary ER visits cost the healthcare industry at least $47 billion per year, according to a report from Accenture consulting firm (2021). The report cites patients with “low health system literacy” as one key cause of excessive ER visits. The complexity of today’s health system drives patients to the ER for acute needs that could be addressed in less expensive health settings, according to the report.
In addition to their negative impact to a hospital’s bottom line, excessive ER visits also put additional strain on clinical and support staff, while diverting valuable resources from patients experiencing serious health crises which truly require emergency care.
Remote Patient Monitoring Programs Aim to Reduce Readmission Rates
Spurred by the COVID-19 crisis, nursing shortages and the incentive to avoid penalties, the industry became more innovative. Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) programs pair wearable devices with telehealth response capability. These programs provide frequent patient monitoring without requiring in-person visits and tests – a capability that is especially important for those who live in remote areas, those with chronic conditions and those transitioning from hospital to home. Medical professionals can evaluate daily reports and reach out to those patients with immediate issues.