Why do we evaluate 30‐day readmissions in general medicine? A historical perspective and contemporary data

Abstract

Reducing preventable readmissions is important to help manage current strains on healthcare systems. The metric of 30‐day readmissions is commonly cited in discussions regarding this topic. While such thresholds have contemporary funding implications, the rationale for individual cut‐off points is partially historical in nature. Through the examination of the basis for the analysis of 30‐day readmissions, greater insight into the possible benefits and limitations of such a metric may be obtained.