In an effort to reduce readmission rates, a group of 15 Michigan hospitals and physician care sites will participate in a 'mentoring' program aimed at optimizing the discharge transition process, enhancing patient and family education, and improving the flow of information between inpatient and outpatient providers. Each improvement team will be assigned a mentor to coach them through the process of planning, implementing, and evaluating the project at their site. Program participants will receive face-to-face training, monthly coaching sessions with their mentors, and a comprehensive toolkit to implement the program. Sites also participate in an online peer learning and collaboration network. The project, which also involves Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, the University of Michigan, and the Society of Hospital Medicine, was developed through a grant from The John A. Hartford Foundation. Press release