Evaluating the efficacy of an addiction consult service

Abstract

Specific Aims: To explore whether an addiction consult service improves 30-day emergency department readmission rates. Methods: Chart review was performed on 278 patients to collect demographic data on age, substance used, recommended treatment, and discharge. Data was de-identified and stored electronically to perform analysis. Descriptive analysis was done using Excel. Results: The two most common substances used were opioids and alcohol at rates of 59% and 21% respectively. 91 patients were recommended to start buprenorphine, 81 were recommended methadone, and 86 were given resources. 66% of patients were discharged without difficulty and 13% of patients left against medical advice. In patients who met with the addiction consult service, 30-day emergency department readmissions decreased by 59%. Conclusions: This project demonstrated that an addiction consult service can have a positive impact on 30-day emergency department readmissions and is an important intervention that should be implemented in more healthcare systems.