The MHA Keystone Center, in partnership with the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, released findings from a two-year pilot implementing the Michigan Caregiver Navigation Toolkit in acute care settings. Results show reductions in caregiver strain and stronger caregiver support infrastructure across two Michigan health systems. Both organizations implemented the toolkit and conducted annual gap analyses to identify workflow gaps, set priorities and integrate caregiver support practices.
Caregiver Burnout as a Quality, Safety Concern
The pilot focused on reducing physical and emotional challenges for individuals caring for friends, neighbors or family members with complex health needs. Lower caregiver strain can lead to more timely support, fewer complications and reduced reliance on high-acuity services. Strengthening caregiver resilience supports improved patient outcomes and safety.
Pilot Sites Demonstrate Improvements
One pilot site reassessed 113 unpaid caregivers two months after initial evaluation and reported improvements across all indicators:
- Caregiver Intensity Index decreased by 54%
- Mental health impact decreased by 46%
- Stress-related drivers decreased by 70%
- Stress-buffering supports increased by 19%
Caregiver intensity levels also shifted:
- High-intensity cases decreased from 21 to 1
- Moderate-intensity cases decreased from 84 to 10
- Low-intensity cases increased from 8 to 50
These results indicate fewer caregivers remained in high-risk categories after receiving structured support from admission through two months post-discharge.
Guided by the MHA Keystone Center, both health systems implemented core toolkit components, including staff engagement, standardized assessments, community partnerships, communication strategies and sustainability planning. Staffing offsets supported participation in assessments and improvement activities. An online learning module was developed to expand statewide access and is available to members at no cost, along with the toolkit.
Key Takeaways for Quality and Safety Leaders
The pilot offers insights for leaders focused on reducing harm and improving system reliability:
- Reducing caregiver strain supports patient safety by decreasing delays, complications and avoidable utilization
- Annual gap analyses help identify deficiencies and guide targeted improvements
- Standardized workflows, education tools and assessments support consistent caregiver practices
- The model provides a practical path to reduce caregiver-related safety risks and improve outcomes
Members with questions may contact Joshua Suire at the MHA Keystone Center.