Predictive Value of LACE Scores for Pediatric Readmissions

Hospital readmissions are recognized as a prevalent, yet potentially preventable, personal and economic burden. Length of stay, Acuity of admission, Comorbidities, and number of Emergency Department visits in the preceding 6 months can be quantified into one score, the LACE score. LACE scores have previously been identified to correlate with hospital readmissions within 30 days of discharge, but research specific to the pediatric population is scant. The objective of the present study was to investigate if LACE scores, in addition to other factors, can be utilized to create a predictive pediatric hospital readmission model that may ultimately be used to decrease readmission rates.