Researchers conducted an analysis using clinical data from the ReEngineered Discharge program to assess any possible links between gender and readmission rates among a more than 730 patients at Boston Medical Center. In addition, they sought to identify potential factors contributing to gender-based differences.
They found that men had higher rates of 30-day readmission to hospital (47 events per 100 people per month) than women (29 events per 100 people per month). Researchers concluded the higher readmission rate among men may be attributed to poorer understanding of discharge instructions and follow-up with primary care physicians.
At the 30-day follow-up telephone call, fewer males reported understanding their follow-up appointments after leaving the hospital as compared to females (78 percent and 87 percent, respectively). In addition, at 30 days post-discharge, females reported visiting their primary care provider at a higher rate within the 30 days after their hospital discharge (57 percent) as compared to men (49 percent).
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