CVS Health's Innovative Medicare Program: A New Approach to Reducing Hospital Readmissions

CVS Health's Aetna is expanding a program where nurses assist members of its Medicare plans, aiming to reduce hospital readmissions. This initiative follows new CMS rules affecting Medicare Advantage plans' role in hospital penalties. The program targets enhanced patient care post-discharge, starting in 10 hospitals.

CVS Health is set to expand an innovative program through its Aetna insurance arm, aiming to curtail hospital readmissions for patients on Medicare plans. The initiative involves pairing patients with nurses to facilitate smoother transitions from hospital to home or nursing facilities.

The program, targeting those on Medicare Advantage for individuals aged 65 and older, will deploy Aetna-employed nurses to assist patients released from hospitals. These healthcare professionals will coordinate in-home care and ensure patients attend follow-up appointments, as part of efforts to enhance health outcomes and reduce costs.

This move aligns with new regulations by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, which will integrate Medicare Advantage outcomes into hospital penalty assessments. Expected to roll out in 10 hospitals, CVS's program strives to improve patient health and benefit service providers by minimizing costly readmissions.

(With inputs from agencies.)