Razor-thin reimbursements, conflicting priorities and strained resources are the main challenges health systems face as they struggle to manage post-acute care effectively, according to the latest report from Orem, Ut.-based KLAS Research, “Post-Acute Care Perception 2013: High Hopes and Big Plans.”

The segment is seeing increased interest due to accountable care organizations (ACOs) and the view that post-acute care is a critical component of improving health outcomes and reducing the total cost of care.

"For most health systems today, post-acute care seems like a mirage when it comes to the care continuum," report author Erik Bermudez, said in a statement. "They can see it in front of them as an important component of their go-forward strategy, but when the time comes to make post-acute care a reality within their continuum of care, it's simply not ready. For most, there's a lot of foundation yet to be laid."

As part of this study, KLAS interviewed 77 hospitals and 51 standalone post–acute care facilities to better understand their plans, challenges, and technology decisions. Some of the products reviewed include offerings from Allscripts, CareAnyware,  Cerner, Delta, Epic, HealthMEDX, HealthWyse, Homecare Homebase, McKesson, MDI Achieve, MEDITECH, NTT Data, PointClickCare, Procura and Thornberry.