The percentage of America's rural hospitals operating in the red jumped from 43% to 50% in the last 12 months, the biggest leap yet.
Fifty-five percent of independent rural hospitals are operating in the red, while 42% of health system-affiliated rural hospitals are operating at a loss. Nearly 60% of rural hospitals are now affiliated with a health system.Meanwhile, Medicare Advantage now accounts for 35% of all Medicare-eligible patients in rural communities. In seven states, Medicare Advantage penetration exceeds 50%.
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Half of rural hospitals in the red, pressured by high Medicare Advantage enrollment
The percentage of America's rural hospitals operating in the red jumped from 43% to 50% in the last 12 months, the biggest leap yet.
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Rural hospitals burn while "Nero" fiddles . . .