This annual publication is a compilation of hospital data presented in a summary format. At a glance, users are able to see aggregate utilization, personnel, financial, and service-line information for United States hospitals by bed size category, census division, state, and Metropolitan Statistical Area. The content is based on the American Hospital Association's Annual Survey of hospitals, conducted since 1946. The 2008 edition includes, "Trends" an editorial review of important health care policy topics. Packaged with the publication is a wall chart: Profile of U.S. Hospitals a geographical presentation of hospital data.