INVESTIGATING THE FRAMEWORK AND OPERATIONAL DYNAMICS OF STROKE CARE TEAMS WITHIN THE 4DRG PAYMENT STRUCTURE: INCORPORATING THE INFLUENCE OF PHYSICAL FITNESS AND SPORTS

Abstract

Purpose: As the 4DRG (Diagnosis-Related Groups) payment model increasingly influences healthcare reimbursement, it introduces both challenges and opportunities for medical institutions. This study aims to investigate the structure and operational strategies of stroke diagnosis and treatment teams within this financial framework, emphasizing the impact of physical fitness and sports rehabilitation practices. Methods: This research selected five medical institutions of varied sizes and operational backgrounds for a comprehensive one-year empirical analysis. The study focused on evaluating these institutions in terms of team composition, clinical workflows, patient satisfaction, and financial outcomes within the 4DRG context. Special attention was given to the integration of physical fitness and sports rehabilitation components and their role in enhancing patient recovery and optimizing cost-efficiency. Results: Findings indicate that in the 4DRG payment system, a well-organized, efficient, and cohesive medical team—especially one that incorporates physical fitness and sports rehabilitation experts—can significantly elevate the quality of care and financial performance. Streamlining the diagnosis and treatment pathway notably reduced patient wait times and associated healthcare expenses. Additionally, leveraging digital technology and big data analytics was instrumental in refining diagnostic and therapeutic effectiveness, thereby improving financial sustainability. Importantly, a direct positive relationship was observed between patient satisfaction levels and the quality of medical services, which in turn influenced the economic advantages for healthcare providers. Conclusion: The 4DRG payment model necessitates that healthcare institutions and their stroke care teams emphasize comprehensive team development and training, with a special focus on incorporating physical fitness and sports rehabilitation practices. Optimizing diagnostic and treatment processes and harnessing the potential of digital technology and big data are crucial steps in enhancing service quality and financial outcomes. Furthermore, elevating patient satisfaction emerges as a central factor in boosting both healthcare efficacy and economic benefits, underscoring the importance of a holistic and integrated approach to stroke rehabilitation in the current financial landscape of healthcare.