Creation of older adult unit shortens LOS, trims costs

Special attention to the elderly in a dedicated inpatient unit trims costs, makes hospital stay shorter and safer for older patients. St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor, MI, created a specially-designed older adult unit that focuses on keeping elderly patients active and less confused. A new study finds the cost of caring for the unit's elderly is about $400 less per case compared with elderly patients in other parts of the hospital and LOS is lower as well. This new approach is so promising, St. Joseph has doubled the size of the unit. Find out why.