OIG: Medicare COVID patients experience host of serious issues
By HME News Staff
Updated 11:37 AM CDT, Thu September 2, 2021
WASHINGTON – Medicare beneficiaries hospitalized with COVID-19 experienced a wide range of complex conditions, according to a report from the Office of Inspector General. Almost half were treated for acute kidney failure or acute circulatory issues; nearly two-thirds treated for endocrine, nutritional or metabolic issues; and one-third for sepsis. The findings were part of the OIG’s examination of hospitalizations during surges in six localities. More than 50% of Medicare beneficiaries hospitalized with COVID-19 received intensive care or mechanical ventilation, the OIG found. Additionally, dually eligible, Black, Hispanic or older beneficiaries were disproportionately hospitalized with COVID-19 relative to the Medicare population in these localities, according to the report.
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