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Best practice strategies for reducing LOS

Case Management Weekly, March 7, 2007

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Case managers are increasingly involved in initiatives such as core measures and clinical documentation, but the ultimate measuring outcome for case management departments still remains LOS.

The follow established practices can help case managers stay on target with LOS, and at times even reduce the average time of a patient's visit.

1. Perform an assessment on all patients prior to or during an admission: Early preadmission screening allows case managers to proactively prepare for postacute needs by securing patient placement in a skilled nursing facility (SNF), rehab unit, etc. Additionally, advance planning allows for patient preparedness and education. By screening every patient for discharge needs during admission, case managers can eliminate surprises and plan for the future.

2. Frequent/early family contact: To ensure cooperation from family members, case managers should keep families informed throughout every step of a patient's stay and discharge. For difficult cases, case managers should hold family meetings early and frequently.

3. Physician rounds: Daily contact with physicians is essential to determine the status of the care plan and for making timely adjustments to any changes in a patient's condition. For physicians with unconventional working hours, case managers should establish a creative means of daily communication that meets both their needs.

Source: Case Management Monthly, April 2007

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