Responding to DRGs: ethical and mission implications

Because of diagnosis related groups (DRGs), remaining financially solvent while being true to its mission is a bigger challenge than ever for the Catholic health facility. Tough decisions and judgments must be made, some of them unfamiliar. When does cost cutting compromise adequate care? Will Catholic hospitals be able to care for the "unprofitable" patient? To what extent will the profit motive damage patient trust? What will be the minimum level of care provided for all? Which programs and services can be dropped without sacrificing the Catholic mission? Hospitals should respond to DRGs in a number of ways: 1. Keep an appropriate balance between care values and cost values. 2. Continue to creatively provide care for the disenfranchised. 3. Critique inadequately brief or cheap care.