Hospital margins rise to 6.5%, challenges persist: 5 notes
Becker's Healthcare December 9, 2024
Nonprofit hospital operating margins remained steady in October with outpatient revenue growing, according to Kaufman Hall’s “National Hospital Flash Report” data released Dec. 9.
The report is based on data for October 2024 from 1,300 hospitals submitted to Syntellis Performance Solutions, part of Strata. The average hospital margin shot up to 6.5% in October and increased to 4.4% year to date. But that doesn’t mean financial challenges have ended for hospitals.
“Hospitals continue to experience overall financial and operational stability,” said Erik Swanson, senior vice president and data and analytics group leader for Kaufman Hall. “However, supplies and drug expenses continue to put pressure on hospitals, and cost containment should be a priority. Continued growth in outpatient revenue and reductions...