(Better Outcomes by Optimizing Safe Transitions) is a national initiative launched in 2008 by the Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM) to improve the hospital discharge process and reduce preventable readmissions. Core Objectives
The program aims to standardize care transitions, particularly for older adults, by addressing common failures in communication and patient education. Its primary goals include: Project Boost
: Reducing medication errors and ensuring patients understand their follow-up care. (Better Outcomes by Optimizing Safe Transitions) is a
A central component of the project is the , which identifies patients at high risk for adverse events after discharge based on eight specific factors: P roblems with medications. P sychological (e.g., depression). P rincipal diagnosis (e.g., COPD, heart failure). P hysical limitations. P oor health literacy. P atient support (lack of a caregiver). P rior hospitalizations. P alliative care needs. Implementation Strategy A central component of the project is the
: Improving the efficiency and communication of the interdisciplinary provider team. Key Interventions: The "8P" Tool
: Preparing families and caregivers for the transition to home.
: Lowering the rate of patients returning to the hospital within 30 days of discharge.