Impact of extended hospital stay on 30-Day readmission rates at South West Healthcare

Abstract

Background: Hospital readmissions within 30 days of discharge are a widely recognised indicator of healthcare quality, efficiency, and patient outcomes. The relationship between length of stay (LOS) and readmission risk is complex, with both excessively short and prolonged hospitalisations contributing to higher readmission rates. Understanding this dynamic within a regional hospital context is essential for optimising discharge planning and resource utilisation. Objective: This quality assurance (QA) project aims to evaluate the association between LOS categories (short, moderate, prolonged, extended) and 30-day readmission rates among general medical inpatients at South West Healthcare (SWH). The goal is to identify LOS patterns linked with increased readmission risk to inform future strategies for improving discharge processes and patient care. Methods: A retrospective analysis of electronic health records (EHRs) will be conducted for general medical inpatients discharged from SWH between 1 January 2022 and 30 December 2024. The dataset will include patient demographics, LOS, discharge details, comorbidities, and 30-day readmission status. Readmission rates will be compared across LOS categories to determine the LOS range associated with the lowest readmission risk. Conclusion: This project will provide actionable, locally relevant data to support improvements in discharge planning and LOS management at SWH. The findings are expected to guide future quality improvement initiatives aimed at reducing preventable readmissions and enhancing patient outcomes and hospital efficiency.