What is one challenge created by the implementation of DRGs?

The challenge associated with the implementation of Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRGs) relates greatly to the higher volume of patients requiring skilled care. DRGs were established to control costs and streamline hospital admissions by classifying hospital cases into groups likely to have similar hospital resource use. As a result, hospitals may discharge patients more quickly to optimize their reimbursement, which can leave patients still needing care outside of the hospital. Consequently, this can lead to an increased demand for skilled nursing care in home health settings, as patients often require ongoing medical attention and assistance after their premature discharge.

The implementation of DRGs encourages a focus on efficiency and cost reduction in acute care settings, which can unintentionally push more complex care needs into the home care environment, requiring skilled nursing interventions at home. This shift necessitates careful coordination and additional resources in home health nursing to address the needs of patients who are discharged sooner than before.