The average length of stay for inpatient care in South Africa has shown a general declining trend from 2013 to 2023, decreasing from 6.5 days in 2013 to 6.1 days in 2023. The most significant variability occurred between 2018 and 2020, where the length of stay dropped from 6 to 5.9 days before rising again. Over the last two years leading to 2023, the length of stay has been stable at 6.1 days, reflecting a 0% year-on-year variation. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) indicates slight growth, reversing a declining trend from prior decades.
Future trends to watch for:
- The forecast indicates stability in the average length of stay at 6.1 days from 2024 to 2028, suggesting no significant changes in inpatient care efficiency or policy impacts.
- Technological advancements and improved healthcare management practices could potentially reduce the average length of stay further.
- Any shifts in public health policies or significant health events (such as pandemics) may also impact these forecasts, necessitating regular reassessment.