Pros and Cons of Observation Units: Are They Right for Your Hospital?

Published August 06, 2013

Observation Units that provide evaluation and care for up to 48 hours are becoming an increasingly important part of the Acute Care Continuum. However, despite potential cost savings and improved patient care, hospital administrators face challenges to effectively integrate Observation Units into their hospital systems.

Since admitting patients for less than 48 hours draws the attention of RAC auditors, health systems have been eager to start Obs Units in an effort to divert “short stays.” However, administrators are realizing these new facilities mean lower reimbursements; and a group of patients is now suing the federal government over higher out-of-pocket costs associated with Obs Units.

This infographic presents some of the data behind these trends. To learn more, check out the upcoming webinar, “Observation Units: One Size Does Not Fit All.”

Click here to download a PDF of this infographic.

For further reading, see:
Observations on a $3 Billion Healthcare Solution
Observations on the Observation Unit, Part II
Observation Medicine: An Old Idea Meeting Very Modern Needs

Partnering to improve patient lives

Vituity branding orange wave pattern background