What is the primary characteristic of a Critical Access Hospital (CAH)?

The primary characteristic of a Critical Access Hospital (CAH) is that it is a non-profit facility with 25 or fewer beds that provides 24-hour emergency services. This designation is specifically aimed at improving healthcare access in rural and underserved areas, where larger hospitals may not be available. The CAH model is designed to ensure that these smaller hospitals can remain financially viable while still delivering essential health services to their communities.

The emphasis on having 24-hour emergency services is crucial, as it enables these facilities to stabilize patients before transferring them to larger hospitals if necessary. Additionally, the bed limit is significant as it distinguishes CAHs from other small hospitals, ensuring that they focus on serving their local populations without the pressures that come with higher inpatient capacities. Thus, the characteristics that define Critical Access Hospitals are integral to their role in the healthcare system, particularly in rural settings.