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While patient volumes decreased this month, expenses rose. The workforce continues to be competitive as labor expenses rose despite the dip in patient volumes.

This month’s data show general stability, with continued growth in outpatient revenue and expense reductions on a volume-adjusted basis.

Though most indicators were down, hospital performance remained relatively stable overall, according to September data. Both inpatient revenue and average lengths of stay increased.

In the third quarter of this year, the median investment/subsidy per physician was $304,312—rising above $300,000 for the first time. Other expense metrics such as the total direct expense per provider FTE and labor as a percentage of total expenses increased.

Hospital financial performance remained relatively stable during the month of August, and despite higher patient volume, revenue and expenses declined on a volume-adjusted basis.

Hospital financial performance remains strong this year, with continued stabilization in the month of July. Outpatient revenue and average lengths of stay showed signs of improvement.

The latest Kaufman Hall National Hospital Flash Report shows that the Calendar Year to Date Operating Margin Index for hospitals was 4.1% in June.

Health systems are confronting a new normal of shrinking revenue and rising labor costs. In the second quarter of 2024, increased labor expenses accounted for 83.9% of total expenses. Additionally, the median investment/subsidy per provider rose 3% since Q2 2023.

Hospital financial performance remained relatively unchanged during the month of May, and the rate of change slowed for margins and other key performance indicators, which reflects stabilization.

Hospital financial performance improved in April relative to both March and the same time frame last year, though a closer examination of the data shows a greater difference in performance at the hospital level.

Overall labor expenses and revenue continue to rise, and Q1 2024 data show that labor represented 84% of total expenses. The median investment/subsidy per provider increased 2% compared to Q1 2023.

Margins and volumes declined slightly in March, which may signal more challenges ahead. Hospital outpatient revenue also fell 5%, reflecting the competitive challenges of providing outpatient care.