Defects in value associated with hospital-acquired conditions: how improving quality could save U.S. healthcare $50 billion. October 9, 2024

https://psnet.ahrq.gov/issue/defects-value-associated-hospital-acquired-conditions-how-improving-quality-could-save-us Defects in value associated with hospital-acquired conditions: how improving quality could save U.S. healthcare $50 billion. Padula WV, Pronovost PJ. J Patient Saf. 2024;20(7):512-515. Despite considerable health system efforts and governmental financial penalties, hospital-acquired conditions (HAC) continue to be a source of patient harm and organizational cost. Instead of the current model of financial penalties and non-payment for low-performing hospitals, the authors recommend rewarding high-performing hospitals and development of centers of excellence. They suggest the investment in HAC prevention would be less than costs associated with treatment, in addition to keeping patients safe from harm.