Learn how structured medication coordination and pharmacy collaboration reduce hospital readmissions in long-term care.

Hospital readmissions remain one of the most scrutinized performance indicators in long-term care. Many readmissions are medication-related and occur within days of discharge.

Transitions of care present significant risk. Medication lists change rapidly. New prescriptions are introduced. Others are discontinued. Without structured coordination, discrepancies can occur.

Executive teams must prioritize medication reconciliation as a core risk management strategy.

Key Drivers of Readmissions

• Incomplete discharge medication reconciliation
• Delayed communication between hospital and facility
• Adverse reactions to newly introduced medications
• Polypharmacy complications

Building a Structured Approach

Facilities that reduce readmissions often implement:

Immediate Medication Reconciliation
Comparison of hospital discharge orders against facility records within 24 hours.

Pharmacist Review Post Discharge
Clinical oversight to identify duplication, contraindications, or unnecessary complexity.

Clear Documentation Protocols
Ensuring updated MARs reflect all changes accurately.

Ongoing Monitoring
Close observation during the first 72 hours post discharge.

Executive-Level Impact

Reducing readmissions:

• Protects resident stability
• Lowers financial penalties
• Improves quality metrics
• Enhances reputation among referral partners

Pharmacy collaboration is not a convenience. It is a strategic safeguard. Skilled Care Pharmacy works alongside long-term care facilities to support structured medication coordination that protects both residents and operational performance.