Case Study: Cullman Regional Medical Center achieves 15% fewer readmissions and 63% improvement in discharge HCAHPS with Stryker

Improving Patient Satisfaction and Reducing Readmission Rates with Better Patient and Family Discharge Communication

Cullman Regional Medical Center (CRMC) in Cullman, AL, faced challenges with patient understanding and compliance at discharge that were impacting patient experience scores and readmission rates. Seeking to improve HCAHPS results and reduce preventable returns, CRMC reengineered its discharge process to provide clearer, more consistent communication to patients and families.

Using the Vocera Good to Go® solution—bedside recorded discharge instructions, a personalized web portal, teach-back, and audit tools—CRMC improved engagement, comprehension and follow-up compliance. The program delivered a 15% reduction in readmissions, roughly 62–63% increases in HCAHPS measures related to post-discharge help and symptom communication, near-100% patient-reported understanding and approval, higher staff satisfaction, and national recognition for innovation in care coordination.

Cullman Regional Medical Center

Cheryl Bailey

Chief Nursing Officer & Vice-President Patient care Services