U.S. Hospitals Face Critical Bed Shortage by 2032, UCLA Study Warns

Researchers predict dangerously high occupancy rates could lead to preventable deaths without systemic changes to staffing, funding, and care models.

A UCLA study projects U.S. hospital occupancy will surpass the critical 85% threshold by 2032, risking tens of thousands of excess deaths annually.
Hospitals are currently operating at 75% capacity, up from 64% pre-pandemic, due to a 16% decline in staffed hospital beds since 2019.
Staffing shortages, private equity-driven hospital downsizing, and an aging population requiring more care are key factors driving the crisis.
Researchers recommend addressing staffing shortages, regulating private equity in healthcare, and implementing innovative outpatient care models to alleviate pressure.
The study highlights disparities, with some states already exceeding safe occupancy levels, and warns of worsening conditions without urgent policy reforms.