Table 1 Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials of the effect of clinical interventions before hospital discharge on subsequent hospital readmission rates

Rotter et al. 2010 [23] (10)

Multidisciplinary care plans for patients with a specific clinical problem

Auer et al. 2008 [24] (7)

Multidimensional interventions for secondary prevention of acute coronary syndrome

Kwan and Sandercock 2004[25] (10)

Care pathways for stroke

Ellis et al. 2011 [26] (7)

Comprehensive geriatric assessment

Van Craen et al. 2010 [27] (7)

Geriatric evaluation and management units

Baztán et al. 2009 [28] (8)

Acute geriatric units

Griffiths et al. 2007 [29] (9)

Nursing-led units for chronically ill or geriatric patients

Stuck et al. 1993 [30] (6)

Geriatric evaluation and management units

Ellis et al. 2011 [26] (7)

Comprehensive geriatric assessment

Parker et al. 2002 [18] (9)

Comprehensive geriatric assessment

Stuck et al. 1993 [30] (6)

Geriatric consultation service

Kaboli et al. 2006 [31] (4)

Interventions by pharmacists: participation on rounds, medication reconciliation, drug-specific services

Shepperd et al. 2010 [14] (9)

Discharge plan for inpatients. Studies that did not discern discharge planning from provision of care after discharge were excluded.

Parker et al. 2002 [18] (9)

Discharge arrangements for older patients : Comprehensive discharge protocols