Health Systems Exploring Ways to Save Money and Patient Dollars

When it comes to medical procedures, less is sometimes better for patients — and, in some cases, for health care costs.

At a time of growing concern about rising health care costs, any savings that come by avoiding scans, tests and treatments that don’t help patients are considered a good thing. To be sure, a hospital stay still can be expensive.

That’s why efforts are underway to focus on preventive care and keep people out of the hospital.

Methodist Health System has addressed both heart monitoring and antibiotic stewardship. But the health system also has put significant effort toward implementing enhanced recovery protocols before, during and after surgery, said Dr. Ann Polich, vice president for quality and performance improvement.

Omaha World-Herald: Health Systems Exploring Cost Savings Measures