PROVIDENCE – Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island members who are discharged from Butler Hospital after a behavioral health-related stay can now take advantage of new support measures created by a partnership between the insurer and the hospital.
The Butler Hospital Transitional Outpatient Program aims to provide patients with short-term help, including counseling and medication and case management. Designed to guide patients though up to three months post-discharge, the program offers help while people secure long-term care.
Both Blue Cross and Butler are hoping to contact patients within 48 hours of their hospital stay, and that the program will result in a 5% decrease on 30-day hospital readmissions.
According to Blue Cross, behavioral health issues such as alcohol and opioid abuse, mood disorders and psychosis are high on the list of conditions that result in hospital readmission.
“Transitioning from an inpatient setting to a home one can be difficult, particularly for people struggling with behavioral health conditions. Many do not have the adequate outpatient supports necessary to facilitate a successful transition. This can often result in readmissions,” said Sarah Fleury, Blue Cross’ manager of behavioral health. “By collaborating with Butler Hospital, which is well-positioned and committed to positively impacting successful transitions for their patients, we are able to provide necessary supports for our members during what can be a critical time during their recovery journey.”
Elizabeth Graham is a PBN contributing writer.
