Service provision and quality outcomes in home health for rural Medicare beneficiaries at high risk for unplanned care


  • Abstract

    Abstract
    Multiple barriers exist to providing home health care in rural areas. This study examined relationships between service provision and quality outcomes among rural, fee-for-service Medicare beneficiaries who received home health care between 2011 and 2013 for conditions associated with high-risk for unplanned care. More skilled nursing visits, visits by more types of providers, more timely care, and shorter lengths of stay were associated with significantly higher odds of hospital readmission and emergency department use and significantly lower odds of community discharge. Results may indicate unmeasured clinical severity and care needs among this population. Additional research regarding the accuracy of current severity measures and adequacy of case-mix adjustment for quality metrics is warranted, especially given the continued focus on value-based payment policies.


  • Authors:

    Mroz TM, Andrilla CHA, Garberson LA, Skillman SM, Patterson DG, Larson EH

  • Journal/Publisher:

    Home Health Care Services Quarterly

  • Edition:

    Jun 2018. 37(3):141-157

  • Link to Article

    Access the article here: Home Health Care Services Quarterly

  • Citation:

    Mroz TM, Andrilla CHA, Garberson LA, Skillman SM, Patterson DG, Larson EH. Service Provision And Quality Outcomes In Home Health For Rural Medicare Beneficiaries At High Risk For Unplanned Care. Home Health Care Services Quarterly. Jun 2018 37(3):141-157