The Problem
Approximately 1400 patients are discharged each year from Duke University Hospital System on outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) managed by the Duke OPAT team. Historic data demonstrates that the 30-day unplanned readmission rate in this population is approximately 20%. Data also indicates early discharge follow-up is needed to reduce readmission risk. We aim to streamline the information delivery and processes that result in close patient-discharge follow-up.
Our Solution
Creation of a real-time OPAT dashboard (OPATracker,) and clinical utilization of the OPATracker to facilitate earlier hospital discharge and closer, automated outpatient follow-up to prevent readmissions.
Anticipated Impact
Implementation of the attached proposal would facilitate communication across inpatient services (infectious disease consultants, home infusion services, inpatient case management) and transition of care to allow for potentially earlier hospital discharge for patient who are either 1.) waiting on home infusion services or 2.) waiting on culture data to result for outpatient therapy decisions. Hospital follow-up with OPAT services would be automated to occur within 48-72 hours of discharge.
