Definitions for "Disproportionate Share Hospital"
A hospital designated by a state as disproportionately serving Medicaid beneficiaries and other indigent patients. Medicaid allows states to make special payments to disproportionate share hospitals, and they are eligible for federal matching funds.
A hospital that receives supplemental Medicaid (Medi-Cal) funding related to a case mix of low-income patients.
A hospital that provides care to a high number of patients who cannot afford to pay and/or do not have insurance.