Redefining Recovery with Comprehensive Rehabilitation for Ventilator Patients

Let’s face it. With ever-shrinking margins, healthcare organizations are forced to stretch scarce resources. Coupled with the reality of clinicians facing burnout, providing the right care in the right environment is tougher than ever. That is not breaking news or a particularly hot take. However, this strain has particularly affected the care of ventilator-dependent patients, who require specialized attention and expertise. Consequently, there is a critical gap in the care of patients suffering from prolonged mechanical ventilation. However, this problem is solvable. It demands innovative solutions and a renewed focus on addressing the complex medical requirements of ventilator-dependent patients. 

Traditionally, ventilator-dependent patients have two clinical pathways. They either attempt to rehabilitate in the intensive care unit (ICU) or are discharged from ICUs to Long-Term Acute Care Hospitals (LTACHs), leading to a cycle of failed weaning attempts, readmissions and imposing a significant burden on the patient, caregivers, providers and the healthcare system. Unfortunately, the mortality rate associated with these patients is also alarming as it can exceed 40%.

To improve outcomes for these patients, there is a need for a fundamental shift in the care model. Fortunately, TriVent Healthcare has developed a successful approach by creating an aggressive multidisciplinary unit within the acute care space. This innovative model aims to address the unique needs of these patients, offering a promising alternative to the current challenges in ventilator-dependent patient care.

One key element of the care model is a focused approach on rehabilitation during the recovery process. TriVent’s comprehensive rehabilitation programs assist patients in rebuilding strength, improving respiratory function and enhancing overall well-being. Additionally, these programs reduce the risk of readmissions by preparing patients for transitions to lower levels of care. This dedicated approach ensures that the right resources are finding the right patients at the right time. Clinicians can focus on meeting these patients’ needs without being spread thin across other units, helping to avoid burnout.

TriVent achieved an average length of stay of 22 days and a liberation rate of 85% in 2023 — both well exceeding industry standards. This success can be attributed to TriVent’s emphasis on having a dedicated team allocated to this unit, an approach that is not typically seen within hospitals.

As the healthcare industry continues to navigate many challenges, TriVent remains committed to supporting skilled clinicians by prioritizing the recruitment, training and retention of professionals capable of providing the specialized care that complex ventilator patients require.

The dedicated unit ensures patients receive quality rehabilitation care while also alleviating the strain on staffing resources. Nationally, readmission rates (within 30 days of discharge) for this patient population can exceed 33%, and in many cases, are higher than 50%. With a readmission rate of approximately 7%, TriVent delivers better outcomes for patients. TriVent’s efforts aim to maximize the recovery potential of patients and enhance their overall well-being through comprehensive rehabilitation.

Prioritizing rehabilitation during recovery can maximize the recovery potential of patients and enhance their overall well-being. Together, these efforts allow TriVent to redefine the standard of care for complex ventilator patients, ultimately improving outcomes across the board.