New Regulation Looks To Stop Return Patients To Hospitals

As of yesterday, Medicare will start fining hospitals that have too many patients readmitted within a month of discharge due to complications. The penalties are part of the new health care law and industry analysts describe it as a new way of doing business for hospitals. According to commission officials, about 12 percent of Medicare beneficiaries who are hospitalized are later readmitted for a potentially preventable problem. The 30-day rule will apply to patients that suffer from pneumonia and other pulmonary or cardiac issues. Experts say the measure will promote communication, improve quality and lower costs.