[Can readmission after apoplexy be prevented? Post-hospital follow-up intervention for apoplexy patients]

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate two models of an organised postdischarge follow-up service for stroke survivors in comparison with standard aftercare.

Methods: One hundred and fifty-five stroke patients discharged to their homes with lasting impairment were randomised as follows: 54 to follow-up home visits by a physician (INT1-HVP), 53 to instruction by a physiotherapist in their home (INT2-PI), and 48 to standard aftercare (control). Six months after discharge, data on readmission were collected.

Results: The readmission rate over the six-month period was 26% in the INT1-HVP group, 34% in the INT2-PI group, and 44% for the controls (p = 0.028). Multivariate analysis of the readmission risk showed a significant, favourable effect of intervention in interaction with the length of hospital stay (p = 0.0332), which indicates that the effect of intervention was strongest for patients with a long inpatient rehabilitation.

Discussion: Follow-up intervention after discharge seems to be a way of preventing readmission, especially for patients with a long inpatient rehabilitation.