We recently reviewed and updated the 12 CAHMPAS benchmarks to reflect current operating conditions. Nine benchmarks were revised, 3 were unchanged, 1 was discontinued, and 1 new benchmark was added. We also revised the data exclusion rules used to calculate the indicators.

CAHMPAS includes benchmarks for 12 financial indicators that can be used to compare performance against industry standards, and to help identify areas of concern or improvement. Medians may change over time, but benchmarks provide a constant point of reference. Since the original benchmarks in CAHMPAS were developed, there have been many changes in reimbursement and the rural hospital financial operating environment. These changes created a need to review the CAHMPAS benchmarks that State Flex Programs and CAH executives use to assess financial performance and condition.

We also reviewed the data exclusion rules used to calculate CAHMPAS indicators. Periodically we discover data quality problems with Medicare Cost Reports, and it is important to adjust data exclusion rules to ensure we are calculating CAHMPAS indicator values accurately. For details, please read the bulletin.