Patient Engagement

Nonprofit hospitals need to do more than ever to keep their tax-exempt status, as Section 501(r) of the Internal Revenue Code adds new requirements to any organization operating a licensed hospital to maintain these benefits.

For many hospitals, a sound financial assistance policy is the only way to bridge the gap between giving life-saving treatment to the patients who need it, while protecting their balance sheets from bad debt.

Mobile payments solutions are gaining traction in the healthcare industry, according to experts, as the smartphone revolution takes root in American healthcare.

Among the goals are reducing unnecessary testing, providing coaching, supporting peer-to-peer education and improving tools for patient communication.

As the programs delve into ever more sensitive areas -- mental health, finances, sleep habits and pregnancy -- advocates say existing privacy and anti-discrimination laws fall short.

Forty-six percent of covered workers have a deductible of at least $1,000 this year for single coverage as employers shift to "consumer-directed" plans that give members incentives to seek less-costly care.

A new consumer website unveiled Monday by the California Department of Insurance hopes to help Californians better shop for health care based on both quality and price.

Payment initiatives and increasing patient expectations are slowly forcing changes, encouraging doctors to be better listeners and more sensitive.

Employers again are sharply focused on employee wellness, and some are raising the bar to qualify for program incentives.

For patients, connecting with a physician's office or group practice on Facebook can be a simple way to keep up with basic health news.