Post-acute care for frail older adults
Journal
Journal of Internal Medicine of Taiwan
Journal Volume
30
Journal Issue
1
Pages
7-13
Date Issued
2019
Author(s)
Lin C.-Y.
Abstract
As population ages, many older adults suffer acute functional decline that persist after completing treatment course in acute care. They need care from others and are unable to return to their residences after discharge. In the past, this would lead to prolonged stays at hospital and difficult discharges from hospitals that create clinical dilemmas. In 2014, the Taiwan's National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA) launched the first integrated Post-acute Care (PAC) program for stroke patients. The target population has now expanded to include patients with burn injuries, traumatic nerve injuries, fragility fractures, heart failure, and frailty. Frail older adults often experience acute functional decline during hospitalization. It is crucial to recognize frailty and intervene early. By providing services that facilitate smooth transition between acute care and long-term care systems, the PAC program could not only decrease level of disability and prevent institutionalization, but also reduce re-admission and mortality rate. ? 2019 Society of Internal Medicine of Taiwan.All Rights Reserved.
SDGs
Other Subjects
lead; Article; fragility fracture; frail elderly; frailty; health program; heart failure; hospital readmission; hospitalization; human; injury; institutionalization; long term care; mortality rate; nerve injury; stroke patient; subacute care
Publisher
Society of Internal Medicine of Taiwan
Type
journal article