A recent study published by the American Hospital Association found that hospital outpatient departments (HOPDs) care for more complex patients than independent physician offices. According to the study of Medicare beneficiaries who have visited an outpatient site of care between 2019-2024, patients who have visited an HOPD tend to be older and sicker than those visiting independent physician offices. They were also more likely to be from rural and lower-income areas, living with more severe chronic conditions and dually eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. The study was prepared for the AHA by KNG Health Consulting. The findings suggest that site neutral payments may have an impact on patient access to care based on variations in demographics and utilization.
