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The Cost of Flu on Older Adults in Long-Term Care Facilities
Prism Health
September 10, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes
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The Cost of Flu on Older Adults in Long-Term Care Facilities
What You Need to Know:
Recent studies show that the flu is not just a health issue; it’s also a big financial burden for older adults in long-term care (LTC) facilities. These costs, both direct and indirect, are putting a strain on healthcare systems and families.
Why It’s Important:
As our population ages, the financial impact of the flu is growing. Managing these costs through smart health practices is key to protecting both public health and our economy.
Key Facts:
Direct Costs:
Hospital Stays: Older adults make up a large number of flu-related hospitalizations, with each stay costing over $31,000 on average.
Doctor Visits: Each outpatient visit costs around $300, and older adults need more frequent care due to complications from the flu.
Indirect Costs:
Lost Productivity: Caregivers lose a lot of work time, leading to an estimated $14 million in costs over five flu seasons.
LTC Facility Outbreaks: When the flu spreads in a facility, it requires extra staffing and resources, adding about $7,500 in costs per facility.
Proactive Health Management:
Vaccination: Getting vaccinated can reduce flu cases by 40%, saving thousands of dollars per person in both direct and indirect costs.
Early Treatment: Using antiviral medications early can shorten hospital stays, leading to big savings for healthcare systems.
Go Deeper:
For further insights on managing influenza costs in LTC facilities, explore these resources:
PRISM LTC STATeam Services
Did you know that PRISM provides all of the necessary support services for your Long Term Care facility? These include:
Outbreak Control
UTI Diagnostics & Treatment
Wound Care Management
Telehealth Services
Staffing Solutions
Phlebotomy Services
Routine Vaccinations
Let PRISM help you by providing you with the support you need to carry you through all of the seasons of the year. With 500+ facilities served and 35+ years of experience, we’ve got you covered.
Many of Prism’s services are provided at no direct cost to facilities. If applicable, we do bill the resident’s insurance, but with no cost sharing. We never balance bill. Our approach ensures quality care and compliance with all regulatory requirements, making it easier for you to focus on what matters most—your residents.
Book a Call With Us
Curious about utilizing Prism’s services for your facility? Book a free call with us at the Calendly link below:
Contact Us:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 888-977-4086
Website: www.prism.org/ltc
Best regards,
The PRISM LTC STATeam
Disclaimer: The following statement serves as a disclaimer from Prism Holistic Care Ltd., DBA Prism Health (“Prism”), an independent physician practice and laboratory (CLIA ID 14D0889595). The services provided by the LTC STATeam were previously made possible through an agreement with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). These services have now transitioned to a private payor reimbursement model. PRISM explicitly states that it does not operate on behalf of or as an agent of IDPH. Any services provided by PRISM will be billed to the resident’s insurer. Please be aware that certain services (e.g., vaccinations) are fully covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and some private insurances with no cost sharing. PRISM offers a range of other services including management consulting, staffing, laboratory, wound care, telemedicine, orthopedics, dental, vision, and health insurance services. Any services that are the financial responsibility of the facility or resident will be explicitly agreed upon prior to any party incurring any costs. This disclaimer is intended to ensure transparency, prevent misinterpretation, and avoid any confusion regarding the scope and limitations of our services. For more information and clarification regarding the services provided by the LTC STATeam, please contact Prism’s Department of Compliance at [email protected].