Insights

With a projected 3.81% drug price inflation rate for pharmaceuticals by the Vizient Pharmacy Market Outlook, it's not surprising health system pharmacies are turning to formulary review as a way to manage the increasing cost of drugs.read more

As organizations increasingly adopt a service line planning model, integrated strategic financial planning is more critical than ever.read more

Favorable execution levels for basis swaps can emerge quickly, and last for a short period of time. Health systems that have laid the groundwork for execution of a basis swap are positioned to promptly take advantage of what may be a short-lived opportunity.read more

Midway through 2024, we are seeing a sustained trend of stronger performance. Revenue and expense trends and length of stay will be indicators for the months ahead, but for now, good planning and tough decisions are translating into better results.read more

Because it has been so long since we have experienced a rate environment that provides for noticeable earnings, the art of generating excess earnings from cash assets may have gone dormant in the minds and busy days of treasurers. If so, it is time to bring that art back to life.read more

Length of stay affects many elements of a hospital’s financial performance, and it is also a key driver of patient satisfaction. Effective management of length of stay requires consistent leadership, and hospitalists are the logical choice to fill that leadership role.read more

The new generation of weight-loss drugs has the potential to help reduce prevalence of obesity and Type 2 diabetes, two of the most prevalent chronic conditions. How might that affect hospital operations and capital and financial planning?read more

Make sure your physicians are key contributors in assessing opportunities and driving the contracting strategy, says Allen Passerallo, VP, category management.read more

Rating meetings should include a meaningful discussion of notable achievements along with a frank, no-spin discussion of the risks the organization is facing. This balance will build credibility with the rating analyst and, ultimately, the rating committee.read more

ICU demand rises; medical care days grow faster than surgical. Effective management needed to balance costs and capacity amid rising patient complexity.read more

Steward Health Care’s recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing is one of the largest health system bankruptcies in recent memory. Although Steward is a for-profit system, there are important lessons that not-for-profit health system leaders can learn from the Steward bankruptcy.read more

Hospitals and health systems that participate in the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program are currently facing challenges on multiple fronts, including manufacturer restrictions and program audits, legal challenges, and constantly-evolving federal and state requirements for participation.read more