Hospital Occupancy Trends
A study by researchers warns of a looming hospital bed crisis in the by 2032, with occupancy rates potentially exceeding 85%, leading to tens of thousands of excess deaths annually.
Post-pandemic hospital occupancy averages 75%, significantly higher than the pre-pandemic average of 64%, primarily due to a 16% reduction in staffed hospital beds rather than an increase in hospitalizations.
Contributing Factors and Solutions
The decline in staffed hospital beds is attributed to healthcare staffing shortages, hospital closures, and practices by private equity firms. Staffing issues, especially among registered nurses, are highlighted as urgent concerns.
Researchers suggest innovative care delivery models to reduce hospitalizations and emphasize the need for policy changes to address staffing shortages and prevent hospital closures to avert the crisis.