Vizient Data Reveals Chronic Condition Patients Straining Hospital Capacity
Event summary
- 11% of U.S. population with multiple chronic conditions account for 52% of inpatient admissions and 35% of ER visits.
- Fragmented care across multiple health systems increases Medicare spending by 30% for these patients.
- 80% of chronically ill patients prefer coordinated care within one health system but face access barriers.
- Vizient recommends multi-specialty care models and expanded home-based services to address the issue.
The big picture
Vizient's findings highlight a critical gap in healthcare delivery as the population ages and chronic conditions become more prevalent. The data underscores the need for systemic changes to prevent capacity strain and rising costs, positioning organizations that redesign care models for this cohort as potential long-term winners. The strategic imperative extends beyond niche programs to core operational and financial strategies for health systems.
What we're watching
- Care Model Redesign
- How health systems will adapt multi-specialty care models to manage chronic condition patients.
- Financial Impact
- Whether coordinated care within single systems can reduce Medicare spending for chronic condition patients.
- Patient Access
- The pace at which health systems improve access pathways for high-risk chronic condition patients.