Outcomes of an enhanced cross-continuum program of care

Abstract

A comparative descriptive design was used to describe two outcomes, the patients' postoperative mobility and satisfaction with care-related services of a new Enhanced Cross-Continuum Care Program (ECCP) of Care for the total hip joint replacement patient from preadmission screening through discharge from home health, including a preoperative visit that was conducted by a home health registered nurse, physical therapist and an orthopedic nurse case manager in the home. Sixteen subjects having a total hip joint replacement were assigned to either the ECCP group (n = 9) or the Standard Care Program (SCP) (n = 7). Insurance plans dictated the group to which the patients were assigned. Patients having Medicare Part A as their primary insurance were able to participate in the ECCP. Self-report questionnaires and a satisfaction telephone survey were used to obtain outcome data. There was no significant difference between the two groups on mobility or satisfaction.