Factors Affecting Home Health Care Referrals After Hospital Discharge
Author Information
Author(s): Turner Natalie, Sabbatini Amber
Primary Institution: University of Washington
Hypothesis
What factors influence the referral to home health care versus skilled nursing facilities among Medicare beneficiaries after hospital discharge?
Conclusion
Older age, being female, and living in communities with a higher proportion of people of color are associated with lower odds of home health care referral.
Supporting Evidence
- Home health care is less expensive and preferred by older adults compared to skilled nursing facilities.
- Older age and being female are associated with decreased odds of home health care referral.
- Beneficiaries in rural areas have higher odds of being referred to home health care.
- Communities with more residents living in poverty have higher odds of home health care referral.
Takeaway
This study looks at why some older people go home with health care help after being in the hospital, while others go to nursing homes. It finds that where you live and your background can make a big difference.
Methodology
Multivariate logistic regressions with hospital-level fixed effects were used to estimate factors associated with home health care referral.
Participant Demographics
Medicare beneficiaries, with a focus on older adults, females, and those living in rural versus urban settings.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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