Defining the Issue

Shorter hospital stays and increased use of outpatient procedures and home and community care—changes that have increased the efficiency of medical care—have shifted responsibility from paid providers to unpaid family caregivers and increased their burden. Though the health care system’s reliance on family caregivers is growing, effective tools that enable them to gain confidence and necessary skills to assume their role have not been available or part of the process. In addition, the growing number of frail elderly and chronically ill patients and the fragmented nature of the U.S. health care system have led to a steep rise in the number of patient care transitions. The rapidity of these transitions can lead to medication errors and rehospitalizations that can result in poor outcomes and costly consequences.

Campaign Goals
Developing Next Step in Care
Collaboratives
United Hospital Fund Family Caregiving Chronology
Staff and Funders