Bed numbers. Inadmissible evidence

Health Serv J. 2000 Mar 30;110(5698):26-7.

Abstract

Little research has been done on the number of intensive care beds the UK needs, and provision varies widely across the country. There is no indication of systematic under-provision of intensive care unit beds in the UK. There is confusion about appropriate referrals and admissions. Research suggests that with the current number of beds there are 2,100-2,500 avoidable deaths a year. But it is unclear how many of these would be avoided by providing extra beds.

MeSH terms

  • Health Care Surveys
  • Hospital Bed Capacity / statistics & numerical data*
  • Intensive Care Units / statistics & numerical data*
  • Needs Assessment
  • Patient Admission / statistics & numerical data*
  • State Medicine / organization & administration
  • United Kingdom