By: Neha Thomas  May. 28, 2020

Dexur’s analysis of the total cost of care for Hip & Knee Replacement for the top-ranked hospitals in Southeast Iowa revealed that University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics can lower its costs and get to benchmark by reducing its readmissions and SNF discharge rate. Utilizing Medicare claims between April 2016 to March 2019, the study tracked the patient journey from the date of admission for 90 days, including the index hospitalizations, rehospitalization, home health, nursing home, and ED costs. Apart from helping patients make appropriate treatment choices, Cost of Care data also helps local ACOs like Genesis Accountable Care Organization, LLC make appropriate referrals choices. The analysis was risk-adjusted and was done at the DRG level (specifically DRG 470: Major Joint Replacement or Reattachment of Lower Extremity Without Major Complication Or Comorbidity (MCC)) to adjust for complications and comorbidities.