In 2023, the Netherlands had a total of 49.74 thousand hospital beds. The forecasted data indicates a consistent decline in the number of hospital beds over the next five years, with figures decreasing from 48.74 thousand in 2024 to 44.99 thousand by 2028. This reflects a year-on-year decrease of approximately 2% in 2025 (47.79) following the initial 2024 estimates (48.74). By 2026, the number further declines by 1.98% to 46.84 thousand, while subsequent reductions are seen at 2% in 2027 (45.91) and lastly, a 2% drop in 2028 (44.99). Over the five-year period, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is approximately -2%.
One trend to watch for is the increasing reliance on outpatient care and technological advancements in medical treatments which may reduce the demand for inpatient hospital beds. Additionally, demographic changes such as an aging population and policy reforms in healthcare could significantly influence the future number of hospital beds required in the Netherlands.
