Assessing the Effectiveness of a Multidisciplinary Approach in Reducing Hospital Readmissions Among Vulnerable Populations: A Focus on Social Service Administrators and Pharmacists

Authors: Shaheinaz A. Alkahtani, Shaikhah N. Binsubel, Alaa M. Alenazi, Abdulmohsen A. Alotaibi, Tahani M. Alsalmi, Jalal A. Hassan, Ahmed A. Shareefi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13945053

Short DOI: https://doi.org/g8kp6w

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Background: Hospital readmissions, particularly among vulnerable populations, are a significant challenge for healthcare systems. A multidisciplinary approach involving social service administrators and pharmacists has been proposed as a strategy to reduce readmissions by addressing both medical and social determinants of health.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary approach involving social service administrators and pharmacists in reducing 30-day hospital readmissions, improving medication adherence, and facilitating follow-up care among vulnerable patients.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary hospital with 200 patients. The intervention group (n=100) received multidisciplinary care, while the control group (n=100) received standard care. Hospital readmission rates, medication adherence, and follow-up attendance were compared between the two groups. Additionally, semi-structured interviews with a subset of patients were conducted to explore their experiences with the multidisciplinary approach.

Results: The intervention group had significantly lower readmission rates (18% vs. 32%, p=0.015), higher medication adherence (85% vs. 67%, p=0.003), and better follow-up care attendance (78% vs. 55%, p=0.009). Qualitative findings highlighted the importance of care coordination and social support in facilitating recovery.

Conclusion: A multidisciplinary approach involving social service administrators and pharmacists effectively reduces hospital readmissions and improves medication adherence by addressing both medical and social needs. This model should be considered for broader implementation to improve patient outcomes.

Keywords: Multidisciplinary care, hospital readmissions, medication adherence, social determinants of health, vulnerable populations, pharmacists, social service administrators

Paper Id: 231368

Published On: 2017-07-05

Published In: Volume 5, Issue 4, July-August 2017

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