A pseudo-epidemic of septicemia among Medicare patients in Iowa.

Abstract

Between 1980 and 1986, Medicare discharges for DRG 416 (Septicemia Age greater than or equal to 18) increased dramatically in Iowa. The rate rose most steeply between 1983 and 1984. Relative bacteria-specific septicemia rates did not change substantially. The proportion of citing hospitals increased as did the number of citations per citing hospital. The data are best explained by increased physician-hospital reporting. A component of DRG (diagnosis related group) "creep" could not be excluded.