National Healthcare Disparities Report - LDI Health Economist

Patient Safety
Chapter 3
n From 2004 to 2008, the overall inpatient pneumonia mortality rate decreased from 54 per 1,000
admissions to 36 per 1,000 admissions (data not shown). A significant decrease was also seen
among all racial/ethnic and income groups during the same period (Figure 3.8).
n During the same period, Blacks and Hispanics had a significantly lower inpatient pneumonia
mortality rate than Whites.
n The 2007 top 4 State achievable benchmark was 28 per 1,000 hospital admissions. iv At the current
rate of improvement, this benchmark could be attained in less than 2 years.
n Rates of improvement varied by race and ethnicity. Blacks and Hispanics could attain the benchmark
in just under 1 year, while Whites and Asians could attain the benchmark in about 2 years.
Also, in the NHQR:
n From 2004 to 2008, the inpatient pneumonia mortality rate of patients ages 18-44 was significantly
lower than for patients ages 45-64 and 65 and over. During this same period, females had a
significantly lower inpatient pneumonia mortality rate than males.
iv The top 4 States that contributed to the achievable benchmark are Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, and Michigan.
152 National Healthcare Disparities Report, 2011