ERIC Number: EJ775391
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007
Pages: 7
Abstractor: Author
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0890-765X
EISSN: N/A
Variations in Financial Performance among Peer Groups of Critical Access Hospitals
Pink, George H.; Holmes, George M.; Thompson, Roger E.; Slifkin, Rebecca T.
Journal of Rural Health, v23 n4 p299-305 Fall 2007
Context: Among the large number of hospitals with critical access hospital (CAH) designation, there is substantial variation in facility revenue as well as the number and types of services provided. If these variations have material effects on financial indicators, then performance comparisons among all CAHs are problematic. Purpose: To investigate whether indicators of financial performance and condition systematically vary among peer groups of CAHs. Methods: Suggestions from CAH administrators, a literature review, expert panel advice, and statistical analysis were used to create peer groups based on whether a CAH: (1) had less than $5 million, $5-10 million, or over $10 million in net patient revenue; (2) was owned by a government entity; (3) provided long-term care; and (4) operated a provider-based Rural Health Clinic. Findings: Significant differences in financial performance and condition exist among CAH peer groups. Conclusions: CAHs should ensure that they use appropriate peer comparators when assessing their financial performance and condition. If quality, outcome, safety and access are affected by financial performance and condition, it may also be important for research in these areas to control for peer group differences among CAHs.
Descriptors: Statistical Analysis, Income, Hospitals, Institutional Characteristics, Peer Groups, Predictor Variables, Literature Reviews, Advisory Committees, Institutional Research, Resource Allocation
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A