Patterns of Hospital Use: An Analysis of Short-Run Variations

Abstract

This study of monthly hospital use in thirty-five diagnoses indicated rational and predictable variations. Admissions in seven diagnostic categories increased in six decreased when monthly occupancy rates exceeded normally acceptable levels. Illnesses in the latter group contrasted with those of the former in a manner consistent with the hypothesis: they were types for which hospital admission might reasonably be considered postponable or discretionary. Patient stays for each group were, respectively, above and below the hospital average, suggesting that a rationing of admissions at high occupancy intensified utilization by inducing an increase in average stay.