What designation allows a Disproportionate Share Hospital to receive extra financial assistance?

The designation that allows a Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) to receive additional financial assistance is the DSH covered entity. This designation is important because it reflects eligibility for supplemental payments aimed at supporting hospitals that serve a significantly disproportionate number of low-income patients. The rationale behind this support is to help maintain access to healthcare for vulnerable populations who might otherwise face barriers to receiving necessary services.

In the context of the 340B Program, DSH covered entities can access outpatient drugs at discounted prices, which further aids in their ability to provide care to underserved communities. This designation helps these hospitals to cope with higher costs associated with treating low-income patients, ultimately contributing to their sustainability and ensuring continued access to essential healthcare services.

Other options such as Medicaid recipient, Medicare participant, and private insurer do not confer a specific designation that directly impacts the financial assistance available to DSH hospitals. While these statuses may indicate a hospital's patient population or revenue sources, they do not provide the targeted support intended for DSH covered entities. Thus, the DSH covered entity designation is crucial for understanding the financial frameworks that support these hospitals.