Unleashing the Hidden Power of Post-Hospital Care: A Vital Link in the Healthcare Continuum

Post-hospital care is a critical component of the healthcare system, yet its current state poses alarming implications. Disturbing data reveals that 73% of 759 responding nursing homes are concerned about potential closures due to insufficient staffing. Post-acute and long-term care (LTC) spaces are pivotal in patient flow within the healthcare system. However, the lack of attention given to post-acute care in education, research, and funding has led to diminished growth compared to hospital settings. This has resulted in delayed adoption of new technologies and evidence-based practices. Moreover, this has led to outdated policies and procedures in assisted living facilities, hospices, and home health agencies.

The educational disparities, data availability, resources, and funding pose significant risks. Decreased revenue and escalating staffing costs further jeopardize post-hospital care entities. The additional stress on an already fractured post-acute care system puts the entire healthcare system at risk of collapse. To address these challenges, a comprehensive approach is required. It is crucial to educate healthcare professionals about the entire healthcare system from the onset of their careers and throughout their practice. Incentivizing clinicians to work in post-hospital settings, promoting research, and fostering meaningful adaptations of technologies are essential steps.

This presentation aims to provide participants with an understanding of the pivotal role of post-acute and long-term care in the healthcare system and the implications of its current under-prioritization on patient care and system stability. By utilizing evidence-based guidelines and the best available research, the session will shed light on potential solutions and opportunities for improvement.

Content outline structure: Evidence-based practice: Purpose: Examine the types of and critical importance of post-hospital care in the healthcare system. Description: Present the concerning findings and disparities affecting post-acute spaces. Evaluation/outcome: Analyze the risks posed by the current state of post-hospital care and its impact on the entire healthcare system and provide potential solutions.

Learning outcome: Participants will gain an understanding of the role of post-acute care in the healthcare system, the implications of its under-prioritization, and potential solutions.