Mitigating PACE Participant Risk to Reduce Emergency Department Visits

As people age, their health becomes more complex, and seniors are more likely to experience health emergencies that require a visit to the emergency department (ED). While ED visits can be critical in saving lives and preventing further health complications, they can also be costly and disruptive to seniors’ lives. For seniors who are part of Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), managing and preventing ED visits is an important part of maintaining their health and well-being.

One key strategy for managing and preventing ED visits for PACE participants is to use patient data to identify trends on the leading causes and risk factors for ED visits. By analyzing this data, healthcare providers can better understand the root causes of ED visits and develop targeted interventions to prevent repeat visits.

By identifying and addressing the underlying risk factors for ED visits, healthcare providers can help seniors stay healthy and avoid unnecessary trips to the ED. For example, if data shows that falls are a leading cause of ED visits for PACE participants, healthcare providers can implement fall prevention programs that include home safety assessments, exercise programs to improve balance and strength, and education on how to avoid falls.

There are several other strategies that can help prevent and manage ED visits for PACE participants:

Care coordination: By coordinating care across healthcare providers, PACE programs can ensure that seniors receive the right care at the right time. This includes regular follow-up visits with primary care physicians, medication management, and access to specialists as needed.

Chronic disease management: Many seniors who are part of PACE programs have chronic health conditions that require ongoing management. By providing regular check-ups, medication management, and support for lifestyle changes, healthcare providers can help prevent complications that may require ED visits.

Telehealth: Telehealth has become increasingly popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it can be a valuable tool for preventing ED visits for PACE participants. By providing virtual consultations and monitoring, healthcare providers can quickly identify potential health issues and provide early interventions to prevent complications.

Medication management: Medication errors and interactions can be a leading cause of ED visits for seniors. By providing medication management services, healthcare providers can ensure that PACE participants are taking the right medications in the right doses and are aware of potential side effects.

In conclusion, managing and preventing ED visits is an important part of maintaining the health and well-being of seniors who are part of PACE programs. Intus Care can help our PACE partners better use patient data to identify trends in ED visits and implementing targeted interventions to prevent repeat visits, healthcare providers can help seniors stay healthy and avoid unnecessary trips to the ED. Additionally, care coordination, chronic disease management, telehealth, and medication management are all important strategies for preventing and managing ED visits. With these tools and strategies in place, PACE programs can help seniors stay healthy and live independently for as long as possible.

For additional resources, visit the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality here.

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