Want Better 30-Day Outcomes? Female Physicians May Be Key, Study Says

By Jill Drachenberg, Editor, AHC Media

When it comes to good patient outcomes, female doctors may have the healing touch.

A recent study of 1.5 million Medicare hospitalizations between 2011 and 2014 found that patients treated by female doctors had lower 30-day mortality rates than male doctors (11.07% vs. 11.49%), and lower 30-day readmission rates (15.02% vs. 15.57%).

The reasons behind the outcome differences need further study, according to the researchers. Past studies indicate that female doctors may follow clinical guidelines more closely, practice evidence-based medicine, and may communicate with patients more effectively. More research is needed to determine the reasons behind the differences, the study authors noted.

“These findings suggest that the differences in practice patterns between male and female physicians, as suggested in previous studies, may have important clinical implications for patient outcomes. Understanding exactly why these differences in care quality and practice patterns exist may provide valuable insights into improving quality of care for all patients, irrespective of who provides their care,” the study authors concluded.

For more information on reducing 30-day Medicare readmissions, see the latest issues of Hospital Case Management.