23-hour Observation: Historical Antecedents, Current Status and Evaluation Strategies

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to describe and explain a new health care service, 23-Hour Observation. To understand this practice the 23-Hour Observation Service is placed in the larger context of health care policy trends, current problems faced by hospitals and hospital's responses to these changes in the environment. This study examines the current status of 23-Hour Observation Programs and specifically looks at the impact of the 23-Hour Observation Service in Flint, Michigan, hospitals. Evaluation strategies for the 23-Hour Observation Service are examined and discussed in terms of the various models that are appropriate. Implications for the 23-Hour Observation Service and current problems and challenges for the future are also discussed.