As of 2023, the density of rehabilitative care beds in the U.S. was stable. The forecast from 2024 to 2028 indicates a consistent density of 100 s per persons from 2024 to 2027, followed by a decline to 90 s per persons in 2028. This pattern suggests a stable capacity initially, then a projected decrease by 10% in 2028. Over the past two years leading to 2028, this represents a significant drop, and the five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) implies a declining average trend.
Future trends to watch include population growth, which may exacerbate bed shortages if the forecast decline materializes, and policy changes aimed at increasing funding or efficiencies in rehabilitative care, which could counterbalance the anticipated shortfall. Additionally, technological advancements in outpatient and home-based rehabilitative care could impact the demand for traditional hospital beds.
