Analyzing Readmissions Patterns: Assessment of the LACE Tool Impact.

This paper will discuss the assessment of the use of the LACE tool at North York General Hospital (NYGH). The LACE tool estimates the readmission risk of patients. This paper describes the tool and a modified LACE score implementation and use at NYGH. We also describe our statistical analysis for the LACE effectiveness in order to inform future decisions in resource allocations. We will look at suggestions for adjustments in the way the LACE tool is used as well as implications for service delivery and patients' quality of life. Our study shows that the modified LACE is a predictive tool for readmission risk in day-to-day hospital activity, but that implementation of LACE alone cannot reduce readmission rates unless coupled with efforts of those in charge of providing community-based care.