Rate of Death Within 30 days of Discharge: 
Winnipeg Residents 1989-1996

For the most part quality of care (as measured by mortality rates) did not deteriorate.
- Mortality rates within 30 days of discharge did not increase significanly, and in fact decreased significantly for 2 out of 3 patient categories examined. 
- Readmission rates within 30 days of discharge increased significantly from 1991-1996 for 5 of 13 patient categories studied, and decreased in one category. Readmission rates tended to fluctuate, and when 1997 data were added, all but one category (digestive disorders) dropped to pre-bed closure rates. For this category, readmission rates for some elderly patienst, for low income and for PCH patients also increased. Thus, further analyses of this category are necessary to determine causes of these increases and whether patient care is being compromised.

- Readmission rates differed between hospitals - some may be due to patient-mix at different hospitals, but it is difficult to see how bed closures could cause such a variation.