Micro-hospitals: A new trend in healthcare

Editor's Note

A new trend in US healthcare, known as “micro-hospitals,” offers care in underserved communities and provides an alternative to emergency care at major hospitals, according to the April 24 US News & World Reports.

Micro-hospitals, already built in 19 states, have an average of 8 to 10 short-stay beds and provide 24/7 care that includes inpatient and surgical services.

Built by existing major hospitals or groups of physicians partnering with external organizations, micro-hospitals are placed in areas that have specific medical needs but lack the necessary facilities and resources to support a full-service hospital.

Proponents say micro-hospitals can offer quick services for any type of healthcare problem.

Critics, however, are wary of the safety of care provided in micro-hospitals because of the lack of experience physicians get while practicing in such small facilities, the report says.

These smaller hospitals tailor health care services to meet the needs of their communities.