NAPH Reports Rise In Uninsured Patient Population
The number of patients lacking health insurance is on the rise in the nation’s public hospitals, according to a survey released this week by the National Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems (NAPH). The survey, which examined the patient population at so-called “safety net” hospitals (which typically deliver a significant level to low-income and vulnerable populations) reported an increase of 23 percent in the number of uninsured patients receiving care at their facilities since the start of the recession.
While examining patient populations at safety net hospitals may seem counter-intuitive, the results of the survey also show a 10 percent increase in uncompensated care costs at public hospitals. These costs can average up to $2.3 million per hospital, with some hospitals incurring additional costs of upwards to $16 millions.
Forty-one health systems participated in the survey, which was conducted during the second half of 2009. Although safety-net facilities represent just 2 percent of the hospitals in the count, they provide 19 percent of all hospital-based uncompensated care.
The NAPH’s report was released on the eve before today’s health care reform summit, which is the latest in President Barack Obama’s attempt to resuscitate his health care reform efforts. Efforts to pass legislation stalled as a result of last month’s GOP Senate victory in Massachusetts, which stripped the Democrats of their all-important 60th vote.
