The financial implications of hospital admission before the day of elective major surgery.

Abstract

Hospitals are under substantial demand with an ageing population, expanding waiting lists, and seasonal pressures. In the UK National Health Service (NHS), more hospital beds are needed to maintain healthcare provision, without which, there is a major concern 'corridor care' will be normalised, reducing the dignity, safety, and quality of care for patients. In addition to acute care, a portion of hospital beds are used for elective surgery, which often requires an inpatient stay. However, some patients are admitted the night before elective surgery, which can reduce the number of beds available and has a knock-on financial cost. Understanding preventable reasons for hospital admission the day before surgery might improve efficiency of inpatient care and reduce costs. Here we discuss the recent study of Hou and colleagues⁶, who describe factors leading to admission the day before elective surgery. We explore the financial impact associated with admission the day before surgery and future policy changes that could improve hospital bed space and reduce cost.