What To Do If You’re In Observation Care
Although it is difficult to reverse that decision, there are steps you can take to help make your case.
The independent source for health policy research, polling, and news.
Showing 141 - 144 of 144
Although it is difficult to reverse that decision, there are steps you can take to help make your case.
The use of observation care is rising as hospitals cope with increasing constraints from Medicare, which is under pressure to control costs. But the decision can mean more out-of-pocket expenses for patients.
A few years ago, federal officials began rating Medicare Advantage plans - using a scale of one to five stars - but seniors' advocates, policy analysts, insurers and some top Medicare officials agree the ratings are flawed. Even so, the star system is about to become more significant.
Medicare is expanding a program to make sure that some older adults use the right drugs and take them correctly to prevent harmful side effects or interactions. A similar program helped Irene Mooney, who was taking 13 medications and developed some serious side effects.
Stay informed by signing up for the Morning Briefing and other emails:
© 2026 KFF