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Reducing Fall Risks for Better Patient Health

Published Date: 2025-11-18

Join us this month as we focus on reducing fall risks and improving the safety and well-being of your patients. Falls are a leading cause of injury for older adults and a key measure on the Health Outcomes Survey (HOS).

For the Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) population, addressing fall risks is especially important. Many patients face challenges like mobility issues, vision problems, or unsafe home environments.

Why Address Fall Risks?

Improves safety: Reducing falls prevents injuries such as fractures or head trauma.
Enhances independence: Supporting patient mobility helps them stay active and confident.

Tips for Preventing Falls

Patient Experience Survey Questions

Have you fallen in the past 12 months?
In the past 12 months, have you had a problem with balance or walking?
In the past 12 months, have you talked with your doctor or other health care provider about falling or problems with balance or walking?
Has your doctor or other health care provider done anything to help prevent falls or treat problems with balance or walking?

Pre-Visit

- Identify high-risk patients
Use pre-visit questionnaires to screen for fall risks, such as recent falls, difficulty walking, or balance issues.

During the Office Visit

- Start the conversation
Use open-ended, non-judgmental questions like, “Have you noticed any changes in your bladder habits?” or “Do you ever feel worried about bladder control?”

- Discuss risk factors
Ask questions like, “Have you fallen in the past year?” or “Do you feel unsteady when walking?”

- Evaluate mobility and strength
Perform simple balance and gait assessments to identify issues.

- Provide recommendations
Suggest practical solutions such as using mobility aids, installing grab bars, or wearing supportive footwear.

Post-Visit

- Follow up on safety improvements
Call or message members to confirm they’ve taken steps like installing home safety features.

- Offer resources
Provide information about community fall prevention programs, physical therapy, or exercise classes designed to improve strength and balance.

- Monitor ongoing risks
Reassess fall risks during future visits to ensure patients remain safe and supported.

Falls can have serious consequences for your patients, but they’re also preventable. By addressing fall risks we can enhance safety, improve quality of life, and positively impact HOS scores.

Let’s work together to keep your patients safe, mobile, and confident in their daily lives.