The current discrepancy highlights the difference between what the population can bear financially and what it genuinely needs in terms of healthcare services. This disparity is crucial in guiding capital planning in a system dominated by fee-for-service models versus value-based care.

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To address this, we analyzed the utilization patterns of the top 15 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) with high value-based-care penetration. These areas span across California, Oregon, Colorado, Michigan, Nevada, and Massachusetts. By adjusting the utilization rates according to the projected 2030 population demographics by age and sex for each county, we arrived at a more realistic assessment. The selected MSAs are not hypothetical; they reflect achievable real-world scenarios where value-based care models have already taken root.

The gap between our future needs and the current supply stems from both demand-side factors, like the shift to outpatient surgery, and supply-side constraints. For our projections, we assumed an urban county utilization rate of 80% and a rural county utilization rate of 70% (where rural is defined as having fewer than 50,000 residents).

At present, U.S. hospitals operate at around 64% bed utilization, which is significantly below our 80% assumption and even further from the 83% benchmark used by regulators to manage annual demand variability efficiently. If we take the 83% benchmark as a target, it suggests that nationwide, 23% of beds should be adjusted. At a more manageable level of 75% capacity, the adjustment opportunity decreases to 15%, even before correcting for demand. For our projections, using a 64% utilization rate reduces the projected 2030 over-supply from 1.6 times to 1.3 times the current supply.

In terms of hospital length of stay (LOS), there has been little movement over the past decade. This is likely due to gains in LOS being offset by increased severity of conditions, as less severe cases move out of hospital settings. As case management and operational efficiencies improve, the overall number of bed days will continue to decline. Assuming care guidelines remain unchanged until 2030, we might expect an even greater mismatch than projected.

One of the paradoxes in the U.S. healthcare system is that we have an excess of the wrong types of beds. There are plenty of medical and surgical beds but a shortage of intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which are often unprofitable in a fee-for-service model. Despite the overall bed surplus, we will have less than half of the ICU/critical care unit (CCU) beds needed by 2030.

What is the cost of a hospital bed?

Posted on 18 October 2018 in Care Beds

Hospital beds come in various types and price ranges. The cost can vary significantly depending on the specific features and functionalities you need.

Below is a guide to help you budget for your ideal hospital bed.

(Please note these beds are intended for use in hospital wards.)

Types of Hospital Beds

Hospital beds generally fall into three categories: budget, mid-range, and specialist.

The higher the price, the greater the functionality and specification.

Budget Hospital Beds

A basic hospital bed with electric adjustments but no additional features starts at £1,500 per bed.

Mid-range Hospital Beds

Better-equipped hospital beds with higher specifications, such as the Interlude range, start around £2,100, depending on the included extras.

For instance, the Interlude Newcare V3 starts at £2,100 and includes features like Trendelenburg and Anti-Trendelenburg tilt, and cardiac chair positioning.

Specialist Beds

The highest-end hospital beds, such as bariatric beds with lateral tilt and many additional features, can cost up to £12,000. Many suppliers offer discounted rates for bulk orders. The exact cost will depend on the specific features and accessories needed.

Learn more about the different types of care beds.

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Additional Factors Affecting Hospital Bed Prices

Several additional factors can impact the cost of a hospital bed:

1) Siderails

Siderails can vary in style and cost. Basic metal concertina bedrails are often included or available at a small additional cost. More advanced options like split siderails are more expensive but offer many benefits.

2) Bed Controls

The bed controls also impact the price. A standard remote control is the most affordable option. Built-in control panels on siderails, which allow patients to adjust their beds independently, cost more but enhance patient independence. Digital nurse controls are faster and easier to use in emergencies, making them popular in ICUs.

3) Non-Standard Sizing

Narrow or shorter hospital beds cost more because they are specialist sizes. Make sure your mattress sizes match the bed to avoid inconvenience!

Features like integral length adjustment may also add to the cost. For example, the Volker range offers length adjustability but not as standard.

Bariatric beds, designed for plus-sized patients, are larger and reinforced, making them more expensive.

4) Hospital Bed Accessories

Accessories such as IV poles, brake alarms, and built-in weigh scales will also increase the price. Extra features like a fifth wheel or linen tray add to the cost, while a central brake is usually standard.

Which accessories and features you need depends on the intended use of the bed. Essential features for ICU beds, like cardiac chair and Trendelenburg positioning, may not be necessary for ward beds.

For more details, read our guide to ICU beds vs. ward beds.

SUMMARY

Hospital bed prices range from £1,500 to £12,000 depending on features and specifications. Specialist models and additional accessories will increase the cost.

Contact a reputable hospital bed supplier to discuss your requirements. They can offer recommendations suited to your needs and discuss costs in detail.

Innova has been collaborating with NHS and private hospitals for over a decade. One of our specialists will be happy to provide advice and bed recommendations.

Our company is a leading medical bed manufacturer. We are your go-to resource for all your needs. Our highly-specialized staff will help you find the perfect product.