FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CARE OF VENTILATOR-DEPENDENT PATIENTS

Patients who require prolonged mechanical ventilation consume a disproportionately large share of healthcare resources and represent a significant financial burden for traditional acute care institutions. When these patients are evaluated as-a population, trends that may facilitate medical and financial management emerge. This report examines the demographics, cost/reimbursement, and current management of patients who require prolonged mechanical ventilation. Recommendations for potential reduction of costs,revenue producing alternatives, or both in delivering healthcare to this aggregate are also explored.