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Performance in February has remained stable. Volumes stayed strong, including in emergency departments. Non-labor expenses have been the primary driver of expense growth thus far in 2025.

Hospital performance remains stable at the start of 2025. Inpatient revenue grew more quickly than outpatient revenue in January, and the rate of cost growth has slowed considerably.

In 2024, hospital financial and operational performance stabilized. Outpatient revenue increased, and patient observation days decreased. Though expenses in 2024 rose, they did not outpace inflation on a volume-adjusted basis.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.