
Jacqueline M. answered 11/06/19
Experienced nurse, Published Author, English and Nursing Tutor
This is an interesting question. I have worked n a voluntary hospital system and been a part of its management team. My experiences of proprietary hospitals have been more from clinical site visits, so I do understand and know the voluntary hospital system better. Proprietary hospitals tend to be smaller and in more rural areas, generally, at least in the state of Virginia, which is where I have practiced. They have less resources and less staff usually. While the aspect of the hospital being non for profit and receiving many types of patients, both insured and uninsured, presents challenges, it also represents a great justice in providing care for all who need it. As reimbursement is driven by insurance and scores, this very much promotes a great drive for continued improvement in the excellence of care provided. As there are many other voluntary hospital systems, the systems compete with each other, since many aspects are similar, and this continues to spark a focus on providing excellent care. The scores and comments of all patients are taken with heavy consideration and always strive to be used to improve care. However, proprietary hospitals, as less in number, have less competition and thus less of an incentive to continued improvement.