Experts: cut costs of ED observation.
Keeping an observation unit operating with current reimbursement might depend on successful implementation of cost-reduction strategies. A "hybrid" model with scheduled-procedure patients in addition to observation patients allows you to staff with fewer nurses per patient. Observe patients with only one specific acute problem who are likely to be discharged within 18 hours. By offering stress testing in close proximity to the observation unit, length of stay is reduced, and the hospital can provide stress testing to inpatients on weekends.
D014487:Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S.; D003363:Cost Control / Q000379:methods*; D017598:Efficiency, Organizational; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000191:economics* / Q000458:organization & administration; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006757:Hospital Units / Q000191:economics*; D017146:Models, Organizational; D019370:Observation; D010561:Personnel Staffing and Scheduling; D014481:United States