Quality and Safety
The physician payment programs are more workable for than preceding federal models, but some unrealistic expectations are emerging.
The increase in threats and sophistication have prompted the need to shore up government security policies, according to the agency's updated 2017 work plan.
By giving patients control over their data, the technology could enable better privacy protections, more efficiency and easier information exchange.
Oschner Medical Center says use of Xenex LightStrike Germ-Zapping Robots will improve patient safety since they destroy deadly pathogens and drug-resistant organisms.
Hospital and providers are posting performance data on their system websites, making the lack of standards concerning, Johns Hopkins researchers say.
Organizations say reducing the reporting burden on clinicians and increasing flexibility is making the broad changes more manageable.
Hospice drug thefts are concerning but experts also worry about restricting access to painkillers for patients.
Roughly 1 in 3 people enter the hospital malnourished or at risk of malnutrition, increasing risk of complications and readmissions, Advocate says.
Mayo Clinic took the top spot in the overall list and ranked in the top three for specialties.
Treatment of low back pain a major area of overuse, overspending; outcomes are sorely in need of improvement, Health Affairs says.