AI Predicts Post-Acute Care Need

Discharge delays due to non-medical reasons are important causes of unnecessary extended inpatient lengths of stay that contribute to rising costs and strained bed capacities. Appropriate post-acute care (PAC) placement is a critical component of discharge planning that helps reduce readmissions. However, PAC placement could be a significant cause for discharge delays at many hospitals. Presently most hospitals rely on an interdisciplinary care transition team composed of nurses, doctors, physical and occupational therapists, inpatient/outpatient and community-based care coordinators, financial counselors, and psychologists who meet regularly during inpatient admission to continually reassess the evolving needs of the patient.