A simple strategy for improving patient contact after ED discharge

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess strategies to improve telephone contact with adult patients discharged from the emergency department (ED). The basic procedure was a prospective, randomized, interventional trial of a convenience sample of patients 18 years or older being discharged from the ED. Patients were excluded if they had altered mental status or were unable to communicate with the College Research Associates (RAs). RAs asked intervention subjects a set of scripted questions confirming patients' telephone numbers and times for a follow-up call. Control subjects received routine discharge instructions from the ED staff. Subjects were called back within 4 days of ED discharge. Eighty-seven control subjects and 76 intervention subjects were enrolled. There were no significant demographic differences between the 2 groups. Forty-seven (54%) control subjects were contacted versus 58 (77%) in the intervention group (P <.003; Chi-square test). A simple patient interview conducted immediately before discharge confirming the patient's telephone number and setting a time for a follow-up call significantly improved patient follow-up contact rates.