The Prince Charles Hospital early discharge of patients with delirium reduces costs by 40%

The Prince Charles Hospital has completed a successful pilot study of early discharge of Delirium patients.The pilot used an approach of assessment and support for patients over 65 years of age. Patients who were eligible for HITH were assigned an individualised and multidisciplinary treatment plan contingent upon their needs as determined by the treating team in conjunction with the HITH service.

The results were impressive, with the average cost for a standard patient dropping from $24k to $9k for a HITH patient!

Previous studies have found that early discharge of older patients can reduce incidents of delirium and it is believed that a familiar environment may help to facilitate reorientation. Hospitalised patients with delirium also often experience complications related to prolonged hospital stays such as falls and high mortality.

Prince Charle’s innovation presentation is available to HRT members by clinking here.  

Other hospital’s innovations from the 2015 Hospital in the Home meeting are available by clicking here.