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Small rural hospitals with long-term care: 1983 to 1987
1University of Kentucky, College of Allied Health Professions, Lexington 40536.
Summary
Small rural hospitals facing financial stress in the 1980s found a viable option in developing long-term care units. These units significantly boosted local long-term care bed supply despite low hospital occupancy.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management
- Rural Health Services
- Geriatric Care
Background:
- Rural hospitals experienced significant financial strain and declining utilization during the 1980s.
- Aging rural populations and higher rates of chronic illness increased demand for long-term care.
- Small rural hospitals were explored as a potential solution to address healthcare needs and financial challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the characteristics of small rural hospitals that developed long-term care units.
- To assess the contribution of these hospitals to the long-term care bed supply.
- To understand the implications for the broader healthcare system.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of a national cohort of 750 small rural hospitals across 1983, 1985, and 1987.
- Examination of hospital characteristics, community demographics, and long-term care bed contributions.
- Comparison of hospitals with and without long-term care units.
Main Results:
- Hospitals developing long-term care units often had lower occupancy rates and higher expenses.
- Although only 14% of hospitals studied had long-term care, they provided nearly 30% of county long-term care beds.
- No significant differences in population-based need or bed supply were found between counties with and without such facilities.
Conclusions:
- Small rural hospitals can play a crucial role in expanding long-term care capacity.
- Developing long-term care units may offer a sustainable model for financially stressed rural hospitals.
- Further research is recommended to explore the small rural hospital's potential as a long-term care resource.