Bed Tracking Systems: Do They Help Address Challenges in Finding Available Inpatient Beds?

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Access
• Health Informatics
• Mental Health Services

Background:

• Locating available beds in mental health and substance use disorder treatment facilities is a persistent challenge in the U.S.
• This difficulty leads to extended emergency department wait times and missed treatment opportunities.
• Online bed tracking systems are emerging as a solution to improve access to timely bed availability information.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the implementation of state-level bed tracking systems.
• To identify successes and challenges associated with these systems.
• To capture lessons learned for future development and deployment.

Main Methods:

• A literature review of published and gray literature from 2008-2018.
• Conducted 13 interviews with 18 stakeholders across five states (CT, IA, KS, MA, VA).

Main Results:

• Identified 17 states with bed tracking systems; five provide consumer-facing information.
• Stakeholders reported improved ability for providers and consumers to locate openings.
• Key challenges include non-participation by some hospitals, data timeliness issues, insufficient detail on patient-specific needs, lack of provider training, and poor public awareness of existing systems.

Conclusions:

• Bed tracking systems demonstrate potential for enhancing treatment access.
• Further research is needed to optimize their effectiveness and facilitate wider implementation.
• Addressing identified challenges is crucial for realizing the full potential of these systems.