[Use of components of the transitional care model in geriatric cross-sectoral care in Germany-Results of a survey].

BACKGROUND

The inclusion of transitional care professionals to improve the sectoral interface management is politically supported. The nine components of the transitional care model (TCM) originating from the USA, are used in a randomized controlled trial within the TIGER project, which is funded by the Federal Joint Committee of Germany. Geriatric patients are accompanied prior to discharge from hospital and up to 12 months after discharge in the home environment.

OBJECTIVE

Within the framework of the TIGER project a nationwide survey was carried out on the use of the TCM components in the accompanied transition from hospital to home in the field of geriatrics.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A data collection was set up to establish contact with people from the immediate and care policy environment of geriatrics. In a 2-stage process, the first question was whether a geriatric project was known that focuses on the transition from hospital to home in geriatric patients. After confirmation, a questionnaire could be filled out online or by post.

RESULTS

A total of 31 different projects out of 39 answered questionnaires were identified. Principally, all TCM components were used in the projects. The TCM component 9 that describes the coordination of support and aids, was mentioned most often (n = 30). The TCM components 6 (improvement in self-management) and 8 (promoting continuity) were used in only 19 projects.

CONCLUSION

Management of the transsectoral transition is a current topic in the field of geriatrics in Germany. The TCM components that have proved to be important in reducing hospital readmission rates have predominantly been used in the projects.