Which metric is commonly used to evaluate case management outcomes related to readmissions?

• A. Length of stay
• B. Readmission rates
• C. Medication reconciliation accuracy
• D. Functional status changes

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that case management outcomes related to readmissions are best tracked with the readmission rate. This metric measures the proportion of patients who return to the hospital within a defined window after discharge (commonly 30 days). It directly reflects how effectively discharge planning, care coordination, and post-discharge support were executed. If case management helps ensure timely follow-up, proper medication management, and addressing barriers like home supports or social needs, fewer patients will be readmitted.

Length of stay, while important for understanding inpatient resource use, does not capture post-discharge outcomes. Medication reconciliation accuracy focuses on safety at discharge but doesn’t measure whether patients end up back in the hospital. Functional status changes indicate how well patients regain independence, but not the likelihood of readmission.