Which option is a utilization management intervention that can reduce hospital readmissions?

• A. Post-discharge follow-up within 7 days
• B. Perform annual reviews
• C. Increase inpatient days
• D. Delayed medication reconciliation

Answer: (A)

Post-discharge follow-up within seven days is a key utilization management intervention because it directly bridges the transition from hospital to home. This timely contact allows for a quick check of the discharge plan, verification that medications are understood and being taken correctly, completion of medication reconciliation, and early identification of any worsening symptoms or barriers to care. By addressing these issues early, it reduces the likelihood that problems will escalate into a readmission, and it helps ensure the patient stays on the planned course of recovery.

Annual reviews are important for overall quality and care planning, but they don’t specifically target the high-risk period right after discharge where the danger of readmission is greatest. Increasing inpatient days would raise exposure to hospital-related risks and costs without proven benefit in reducing readmissions. Delayed medication reconciliation increases the chance of medication errors and adverse events that can trigger a return to the hospital; timely reconciliation is part of preventing readmissions.