In Fall 2013, MAPS started work on a grant to improve the safety of care at transitions through better engagement of patients, residents, families and consumers. This grant came to MAPS through an expansion of MHA's Hospital Engagement Network (HEN) grant from CMS. This initiative's goal is to identify effective ways to engage health care consumers in taking a more active and informed role in the management of their health care transitions to reduce potential harm.
After consumer research, tools were developed to help patients in transition. The tools have been compiled into a packet of information which a patient receives at a point of transition in their care. In May, MAPS distributed 975 project packets to 11 pilot sites. The pilot sites include 6 Area Agencies on Aging, Glacial Ridge Hospital, Cambridge Hospital - Allina, The Colony transitional living in Eden Prairie (Tealwood), Fairview Lakes Hospital in Wyoming, and Essentia Health St. Joseph's-Brainerd. Pilot sites are distributing the packets and recipients will be asked to complete a survey, either electronically or paper-based, to share their feedback on the effectiveness of the packet materials.
Survey results from our pilot sites will start coming in shortly and we are excited to learn from them and will share those results.
An associated consumer awareness campaign is being finalized and will likely include radio and print ads. We are also investigating the feasibility of an app for people to use to manage their care transitions/discharges.
