Pending health care reform and a range of payment pressures are threatening the current and future financial viability of many hospitals. In an effort to control long-term health care spending, CMS is shifting from paying providers based on volume to paying based on performance. CMS has already implemented a policy of no payment for hospital-acquired conditions in the inpatient setting. Looking toward the future, payments will likely be tied to readmission rates and avoidance of potentially avoidable admissions. As a result, organizations must assess key metrics and implement improvements today to capture tomorrow's patients and payments.

Through a detailed report with quarterly updates and expert insights, the Sg2 Reform Readiness Analysis identifies financial risks and opportunities associated with important performance metrics. It pinpoints utilization patterns that may be subject to regulatory pressures and/or lower payments today or in the future. By looking at both immediate financial risks and at the areas that will impact future financial performance (eg, readmissions and potentially avoidable admissions), organizations will be better able to sustain their competitive position, reduce costs and, ultimately, provide more efficient and effective patient care.

• Quantify their financial risk under current and future payment scenarios
• Uncover financial improvement opportunities
• Develop strategies to optimize inpatient and outpatient care
• Set appropriate goals using Sg2 expert-defined benchmarks
• Deliver high-quality services more efficiently
• Track improvement initiatives and quantify progress with quarterly report updates

The Sg2 Reform Readiness Analysis is augmented by Sg2 industry experts and resources. Sg2 presents a comprehensive report and provides expert analysis and strategic recommendations in areas where financial risk has been identified. Sg2 also provides training and education that supplement specific improvement initiatives.