The investigation challenges the traditional 85% occupancy target, demonstrating that optimal occupancy levels vary by hospital. The study also underscores the strong correlation between hospital bed occupancy and ED access performance, with higher hospital occupancy correlating with longer ED stays and decreased adherence to performance indicators. As hospitals approach full capacity, the pressure on ED resources intensifies, resulting in longer wait times and delays in care.
Riahi et al. (Sun,) studied this question.