Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease where treatment is directed toward reducing and delaying its potentially severe short- and long-term complications. The estimated population (20-79 years old) with diabetes is 32.22 million in the United States, and 12.5% of people live with undiagnosed diabetes (Figure 1). Diabetes Mellitus is currently the most prevalent […]

Background: The 30-day readmission rate is a key performance indicator for hospitals and hospitalist groups alike. Studies have reported a correlation between scheduling follow-up appointments and reduced readmission rates in specific patient populations (e.g. Heart Failure, COPD). However, evidence regarding the effectiveness of scheduling post-discharge appointments in general medicine patients has been mixed. Methods: We […]

Background: Close outpatient follow up is a key element of a safe and effective transition to home after hospitalization. For a wide variety of patients, including those with myocardial infarctions, heart failure, and other conditions, interventions that encourage follow up can reduce readmissions and in some cases mortality. However, competing demands by the clinical team […]