The Management Strategies for Ambulatory Care Sensitive Hospitalization

Abstract

The issue of hospitalization for ambulatory care sensitive conditions (ACSH) is a significant problem worldwide, resulting in an annual waste of at least one hundred billion yuan in health resources in China. Implementing targeted interventions to reduce ACSH is an essential pathway towards sustainable health systems. It helps to reduce the occurrence and progression of diseases, improve public health levels, and reduce economic burdens. This study aims to systematically analyze the influencing factors of ACSH, summarize international experiences in reducing ACSH, and explore ACSH management strategies suitable for China's health system. ACSH are influenced by individual factors, health system factors, and social factors. Internationally, measures to reduce ACSH mainly focus on medical service models, service provision, and service management. Drawing on international experience and China's practical situation, this study proposes the following recommendations for managing ACSH in China: firstly, it is recommended to incorporate ACSH into the evaluation system of health services, comprehensively monitor and manage ambulatory care sensitive conditions (ACSCs) ; secondly, enhance health service capacity, promote the standardization and normalization of disease management based on evidence-based approach; moreover, conduct localized research on ACSH and promote the implementation of high-quality evidence; finally, continuously strengthen population health literacy, enhance patients' and the public's correct understanding of reducing ACSH.

Keywords

• ambulatory care sensitive conditions|hospitalization for ambulatory care sensitive conditions|preventable hospitalizations|management strategy|ambulatory and emergency care|out-of-hospital services|primary health services