Hospital-Acquired Conditions Declined 17% From 2010-2014

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality recently released updated estimates on trends in hospital-acquired conditions (HACs). Here are some key findings from the report:

·         There was a 17% decline in hospital-acquired conditions (HACs) from 2010-2014.

·         2.1 million fewer HACs were experienced by patients over the 4 years compared to the 2010 rate.

·         121 HACs per 1,000 discharges occured in 2014, down from 145 in 2010.

·         38% of the decline in HACs is due to decreased adverse drug events.

·         Pressure ulcers account for 28% of the decline in HACs.

·         The decline in HACs resulted in estimated cost savings of approximately $7.8 billion in 2014.

Source: AHRQ, December 2015