Predictors of hospital readmission. A meta-analysis.

Summarizing the results of research related to identifying potential predictors of hospital readmissions has been difficult because of conflicting results across studies. Using the techniques of meta-analysis, the results from 44 studies were examined in the present study. Overall, the mean readmission rate was 27%, with significant differences based on patient diagnosis. Although diagnosis, age, initial length of hospital stay, and prior use of hospital resources were related to readmission, the strength of the relationship is trivial. Combining data from 12 intervention studies designed to reduce readmission indicated that the overall treatment effect was not significant. Further research is needed to determine demographic, clinical, and social predictors of readmission if strategies are to be developed to reduce readmission and the resulting health care costs.