POTSDAM -- Canton-Potsdam Hospital has been awarded a $40,000 grant from Excellus Blue Cross/Blue Shield.

The grant is assisting the hospital in implementing a program to reduce readmissions for patients diagnosed with congestive heart failure by supporting patients in the transition from hospital care to home.

Patients enter the program after being identified as “high risk.” Once enrolled, patients work with a cardiology nurse and a discharge planner for education, referrals, and follow-up. Patients are monitored for 30 to 60 days after discharge. Weight, blood pressure, medication compliance, and home care needs are reviewed, with the nurse and case manager acting as the link between home care, physician, and patient.

As part of the project, patients are provided with scales, glucose monitors, pill boxes, blood pressure cuffs, and other educational and medical supplies as needed to foster success after discharge. The program also includes a condensed five-visit cardiac rehabilitation component, to provide education and practice with lifestyle changes including diet, exercise, and smoking cessation, as well as longer-term cardiac rehabilitation for those patients for whom it is appropriate.

Hospital President and CEO David Acker. said, “Through continued education and home monitoring, we will undoubtedly see a reduction in CHF readmissions at Canton-Potsdam Hospital. Not only will the program empower patients to gain control over their disease, it will also help ease financial pressures that repeat visits might present for the patient, the hospital, and the insurer.”