SPOTLIGHT -
TEFCA is up and running. Here’s why it’s a big deal for the exchange of health data.
After years of planning, the Department of Health and Human Services hailed the milestone. Five organizations have been approved as the initial data exchange networks.
Mass General Brigham’s chief academic officer talks about leading $2B research enterprise
Paul Anderson spoke with Chief Healthcare Executive® about his new role, gene and cell therapy, immunology, and bringing scientists together.
Medicare Advantage plans need more oversight, lawmakers say
A group of Democratic and Republican senators wants CMS to collect more data on prior authorization denials. Hospitals have said they’re seeing more denials from MA plans.
Zocdoc CEO Oliver Kharraz looks to 2024: Greater focus on convenience and costs
The company’s chief executive and founder talks with Chief Healthcare Executive® about the coming year, and a new Zocdoc report on what patients want.
Over hospital objections, House passes Lower Costs, More Transparency Act | Bills and Laws
Health systems have objected to a provision for ‘site-neutral’ Medicare funding, which they say would hurt hospitals. They welcome language delaying cuts in Medicaid funding.
Hospitals could do more outsourcing in 2024
To cut costs, health systems may outsource, or even offshore, functions such as revenue cycle management and billing, Deloitte projects. Most hospital leaders expect continued workforce challenges.
Elizabeth Wako becomes CEO of Swedish Health Services, and more | MED MOVES
Emory University medical school announces a new dean, MaineHealth hires a regional president, and other leaders take new roles.
Following cyberattack, Ardent Health Services works toward recovery
The attack disrupted operations at hospitals in several states. Ardent says it has restored its electronic health records.
Epic teams with Qualtrics to offer deeper insights from patients
The digital health company is collaborating with Qualtrics to put more patient feedback in health records. Adrienne Boissy of Qualtrics talks with us about the partnership and the push for patient-centered care.
Nearly all children’s hospitals report increase in patients needing mental health services
The Children’s Hospital Association says most hospitals are worried about a lack of resources for patients with mental health needs. Many are also struggling with labor costs.
Hospital 2024 outlook remains 'negative,' S&P Global Ratings says
Nonprofit health systems will likely wrestle with higher labor costs and revenue difficulties. Suzie Desai of S&P talks about those headwinds and other challenges ahead for hospitals.
Hospitals face evolving threats from cyberattacks | Data Book podcast
Michael Hamilton, founder and chief information security officer of Critical Insight, talks about trends in attacks and emerging threats in the coming year.
Nonprofit hospitals face ‘another tough year’ in 2024, Fitch Ratings says
Many health systems will continue to wrestle with staffing challenges, volumes, and debt concerns. Kevin Holloran of Fitch Ratings tells us why he expects another difficult year.
These hospitals received top honors from The Leapfrog Group
The watchdog group unveiled its top hospitals and top ambulatory surgical centers for 2023.
How Inova Health System plans to use $75M gift to expand cardiac care
The northern Virginia system has high hopes for the donation. Shashank Desai of Inova talked with us about improving care and expanding prevention efforts.
Lifepoint Health, Ascension Saint Thomas form joint venture to own Tennessee hospital system
They will co-own Highpoint Health System, which operates four hospitals and other healthcare sites.
The importance of being visible | Lessons for Leaders
The CEO of AtlantiCare in New Jersey, Michael Charlton talks about the need to get around the organization and talk with staff.
More pregnant, postpartum women are dying of overdoses
Mortality rates rose significantly from 2018 to 2021, according to an NIH study.
Providence Swedish plans $1.3B ‘world-class’ hospital in Seattle
The plans call for a 12-story tower for inpatient care. Elizabeth Wako, CEO of Swedish Health Services, says it will be a ‘state-of-the-art’ facility for the Pacific Northwest.
Employers’ 2024 healthcare concerns: Higher costs, mental health, cancer, and vendor performance
The Business Group on Health unveils its trends to watch in the coming year, and employers are worried about controlling costs and getting a good return on their investments.
To improve health equity, ‘look at your own data’
Lawrence Moss, CEO of Nemours Children's Health, says hospitals need to understand the areas where certain groups of patients are having worse outcomes.
Looking at Mayo Clinic’s $5B plan to transform its main campus
The multi-year project will feature new technology and the ability to adapt for future needs, officials say.
BJC HealthCare, Saint Luke’s Health System reach agreement on $10B merger
The two Missouri-based systems will form a combined system with 28 hospitals. The deal is expected to close by Jan. 1.
Nursing gets 1% of healthcare donations
The nursing profession receives a penny for every dollar donated, the American Nurses Foundation says. Kate Judge, the executive director, says hospitals are missing opportunities to support nurses and improve patient care.
Looking at better data and cooperation to improve public health | Data Book podcast
J.T. Lane of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials talks about sharing information, working with the private sector and preparing for future threats.
Hospitals make gains in financial performance: Report
Health systems are seeing gains, particularly in outpatient revenue, according to the latest National Hospital Flash Report.
Hospitals push back against Medicare Advantage plans
Health systems say they are seeing more denials, and they worry the plans are going to skirt federal regulations in reviewing hospital admissions.
Ransomware attack affects hospitals in several states
Ardent Health Services says patient care is continuing but some surgeries have been postponed. Some hospitals diverted ambulances to other facilities.
Looking at cancer care and disturbing disparities by race
Harlan Levine of City of Hope talks about the need to improve outcomes and access for patients in underserved communities.
Hospital strikes have made headlines. Expect more walkouts in the future.
Healthcare workers will walk to get what they want, and it’s not just about money. Hospitals must focus on building good relationships with their workers.