Massachusetts hospital‑at‑home program shows strong outcomes for Medicaid patients

A study of 906 acute hospital‑at‑home episodes across four Massachusetts hospitals between November 2020 and September 2023 found favorable results for Medicaid recipients. Only 8% of patients were readmitted within 30 days of discharge, and fewer than 1.2% were readmitted within three days. Nine percent required escalation back to a brick‑and‑mortar facility, while in‑program deaths were under 1.2% (fewer than 11 deaths). One percent of patients died within 30 days post‑discharge, and 4% were transferred to skilled‑nursing or other post‑acute facilities. The median total cost for a Medicaid and Medicare episode was $11,622.

Lead author Dr. David Levine called the findings “evidence‑based” proof that hospital‑at‑home can safely deliver hospital‑level care for Medicaid patients, and he expects broader adoption by Medicaid agencies. Medical director Constantinos “Taki” Michaelidis added that the model offers the same safety and quality while allowing patients to recover at home. The results aim to give confidence to Medicaid leaders and integrated dual‑eligible plans considering expansion of home‑based hospital care.