Transition to the outpatient setting is crucial

There are various reasons why patients with chronic lung diseases experience renewed exacerbations and associated rehospitalizations after discharge from hospital. The most vulnerable patient groups are those with comorbidities such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease. At system level, shortcomings in the transition to the outpatient setting and economic disincentives due to flat rates per case are some of the reasons. Measures that can help to reduce the risk of re-hospitalization include outpatient or inpatient rehabilitation for COPD and asthma patients.