The data indicates a consistent decline in the number of acute care hospital beds in the US. In 2023, the value stood at 2.34 hospital beds per thousand persons, reflecting a year-on-year decrease of 0.85% and a five-year CAGR of -1%. The trend from 2013 to 2023 shows a steady decrease, despite a minor uptick in 2017. The forecast from 2024 to 2028 anticipates a continued decline, with a forecasted five-year CAGR of -0.79% and an overall growth rate of -3.9% by 2028.
Future Trends to Watch For:
- Changes in healthcare policy and funding that could impact bed availability.- Advances in medical technology and outpatient care reducing the need for inpatient beds.- Population demographics, such as aging population, potentially increasing demand for acute care services.- Trends in healthcare workforce that could affect hospital capacity.
