Laboratory benefits

Maximize existing laboratory capacity

• Laboratory orders for residents at skilled nursing facilities typically include highly automated tests such as comprehensive metabolic panels, basic metabolic panels, electrolytes, urinalysis, complete blood counts, and prothrombin time (PT-INR or pro time) test. Most hospital laboratories already perform these tests 24/7 for inpatient units and emergency departments. This often means they have the capacity to absorb additional volume without purchasing more equipment or increasing technologist time. As a result, testing volumes from skilled nursing facilities can reduce cost per test and increase laboratory revenue.

Gain predictable volumes and a steady revenue stream

• Skilled nursing facilities often have predictable testing needs, such as chronic disease monitoring, infection workups, medication monitoring, and routine laboratory work for residents with higher care needs. This consistent volume of routine testing provides hospital laboratories with predictable volumes and a steady source of revenue.

Optimize low-volume hours

• Most skilled nursing facilities prefer specimens to be collected before breakfast. As a result, samples often arrive at the laboratory after inpatient morning draws are completed and before mid‑morning volumes from clinics and provider offices begin. This timing allows laboratories to better leverage staff and equipment during a period that typically has lower testing volume.

Skilled nursing facility benefits

Provide more timely care

• With tests performed locally, skilled nursing facilities often receive same-day results for routine and add-on testing, along with STAT results within a few hours of collection. Faster turnaround times support better clinical decision-making and improved patient outcomes. For example, it makes it easier to treat infections promptly, adjust medication dosages, and limit nonurgent trips to the emergency department and hospital readmissions.

Ease the demands on staff

• Hospital-provided resources for blood collection and specimen transport help reduce the burden on skilled nursing facility staff while minimizing re-collections caused by specimen quality or stability issues that can occur with longer transport times.

Hospital benefits

Improve continuity of care for better outcomes

• Many residents in skilled nursing facilities are recently discharged hospital patients. When a lab provides services at the facility, it is easier for clinicians at its hospital to monitor recovery and reduce the risk of readmission. Avoiding readmissions benefits patients and provides financial value for hospitals. Timely laboratory data is especially important for Accountable Care Organizations.

Increase referrals for other services

• The relationships a laboratory builds with skilled nursing facilities often drive downstream revenue for the hospital. When a laboratory delivers high-quality testing, reliable service, and fast turnaround times, it strengthens the hospital’s brand. This positions it as a trusted partner not only for lab tests but also for referrals for admissions, imaging, rehabilitation, and other care needs, to further increase revenue across the hospital system.