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Variations and trends in state nursing facility capacity: 1978-93
R DuNah1, C Harrington, B Bedney
1Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco 94143, USA.
Health Care Financing Review
|March 3, 1996
Summary
Demand for nursing facility (NF) beds is rising due to an aging population. This study analyzes NF bed trends and adequacy from 1978-93, highlighting state variations and potential influencing factors.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Health Services Research
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Growing elderly population increases demand for nursing facility (NF) care.
- National capacity to provide nursing home care is a significant concern.
- Understanding trends in NF beds is crucial for healthcare planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- Examine trends in licensed nursing facilities and beds from 1978 to 1993.
- Assess the adequacy of NF beds across states using multiple metrics.
- Identify state and regional variations in NF bed supply and influencing factors.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of licensed nursing facility and bed data from 1978-93.
- Examination of bed-to-aged-population ratios over time.
- Review of occupancy rates and state officials' assessments of bed supply adequacy.
Main Results:
- Significant state and regional variations in NF bed supply and adequacy were observed.
- Trends indicate a growing concern regarding the capacity to meet NF care demands.
- Data reveals fluctuations in bed ratios and occupancy rates across different states.
Conclusions:
- The adequacy of nursing facility beds varies considerably by state and region.
- Factors influencing NF bed supply require further investigation to ensure sufficient care capacity.
- Policy and planning must address the growing demand for nursing home services.