For the study, researchers assessed 216 trauma patients who did or did not undergo a standardized process called the long-term acute care facility discharge protocol. They found this protocol as well as standardized withdrawal of care practices reduced hospital mortality by approximately 1 percent, which could have improved the hospital’s ranking for quality.
The researchers concluded hospitals may be able to improve hospital mortality and quality rankings by utilizing standardized care and discharge protocols. They also concluded hospital quality should be measured beyond the point of discharge.
Related Articles on Quality Measures:
Oregon Patient Safety Commission Looks to Boost Voluntary Reporting
BCBS of Rhode Island Ties 20% of Hospital Reimbursements to Quality
Massachusetts Seeks Suggestions for State-Specific Quality Measures
