Factors Associated With Length of Stay and Readmission Rates for Older Hospital in the Home Patients: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review of published literature to examine factors associated with Length of Stay (LOS) and Readmission Rates for older Hospital in the Home (HITH) patients.MethodIn accordance with PRISMA guidelines, seven databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles relating to HITH, older patients, LOS and readmissions.ResultsTwenty-nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Risk factors associated with increased readmissions and LOS were age, prior hospitalisations, illness severity, geriatric-related complications, and cognitive impairment. Most studies found that patients participating in HITH had a shorter initial acute hospitalisation LOS than patients transferred to a subacute hospital or rehabilitation ward. However, LOS and readmissions, comparing HITH to traditional in-hospital care, were inconsistent.ConclusionsOverall, LOS and readmission rates (comparing home-based care to hospital care) were inconsistent but appear related to patient demographics and disease profile and require further study.