Analyses of stay of patients in a large general hospital.

The relationship between length of stay of patients in a large general hospital and bed usage has been analyzed. Long-stay patients use beds disproportionately, and even week-end admission and discharge patterns can affect availability of beds. Transfer of long-stay patients to alternate care facilities of lower cost can have marked effects on efficient bed usage.It is argued from the analyses that since the form and type of disease causing admission are the prime factors in determining length of stay, to reduce the cost of health care the highest priority must be given, as well as to prevention, to the devising of new cures and improvements in therapy. Improving diagnostic and prognostic techniques, making available alternate care facilities and education of the public in the care of the sick should also reduce costs.