The Impact of Occupational Therapy Services on Hospital Readmission for Patients with Cancer in Acute Care Settings

Abstract

Abstract Purpose This study examined how the use of occupational therapy (OT) services impacts the likelihood of a hospital readmission within 30 days for patients with cancer diagnoses. Methodology This was a retrospective observational study. We analyzed patient records from a National Cancer Institute hospital over a 5-year period. Various factors, including the use of occupational therapy services as well as individual factors such as pain levels, cancer stage, and living environment were considered in relation to readmission status. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess the impact of the provision of occupational therapy services on 30-day hospital readmission. Results Patients who received OT services had a statistically significant decrease in their risk of a 30-day hospital readmission compared to patients with cancers who did not receive OT services. Conclusion The results of the study are intended to contribute to the body of knowledge on the benefits of occupational therapy services on an individual as well as a health systems-based level for patients with cancer diagnoses while hospitalized. Implications for Cancer Survivors The knowledge of the utility of occupational therapy services for patients with cancer diagnoses while in the hospital can assist providers, patients, and hospital leadership in understanding some of the potential benefits for patient care and healthcare systems at large while seeking to avoid the deleterious effects from a hospital readmission.