Patient cost-sharing, insurance plans linked to postop readmissions

Editor's Note

Increased patient cost-sharing among privately insured, nonelderly patients was associated with lower odds of readmission after abdominal surgery in this study.

A $1,284 increase in patient out-of-pocket payments during admission for surgery was associated with a 19% decrease in the odds of 7-day readmission and a 17% decrease in the odds of 30-day readmission.

Patients with noncapitated point-of-service, preferred provider organization, and high-deductible plans were more likely to be readmitted within 30 days than those with capitated health maintenance organization and point-of-service plans.

Patient cost-sharing and insurance arrangements need to be considered in the provision of equitable access for quality care, the authors say.