Estimating Unmet Demand for Integrated Nursing and Care Service and Its Corresponding Beds:Directions for Nursing Policy to Improve Health Equity
10.11111/jkana.2021.27.5.443
- Author:
Jinseon YI
1
;
Jinhyun KIM
Author Information
1. Instructor, College of Nursing, Seoul National University, Korea.
- Publication Type:ORIGINAL ARTICLE
- From:Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing Administration
2021;27(5):443-454
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:This study aimed to estimate the unmet demand for INCS and the number of needed beds for fulfillment.
Methods:Annual data from the Korea Health Panel (2015~2018), Health Insurance Statistical Yearbook (2015~ 2019), and published statistical data (2015~2019) were used. To measure the unmet demand, the utilization of informal nursing care services, which can be a market substitute for INCS, was used. The number of needed beds was calculated by dividing the demand by the bed occupancy rate multiplied by 365 days.
Results:The unmet demand decreased every year and was estimated to be 31~47 million person-day as of 2019. It was the highest in Gyeonggi (6~8 million) and the lowest in Jeju (160~220 thousand), while the fulfilled rate was the highest in Incheon (52~61%) and the lowest in Jeonbuk (6~8%). For each type, general hospitals showed the highest unmet demand (6~10 million), followed by hospitals (5~8 million) and tertiary hospitals (4~7 million). Gyeonggi province (37,212~48,882) and general hospitals (54,955~70,962) were most needed additional INCS beds.
Conclusion:Tailored bed expansion strategies are necessary to satisfy each region's and hospital’s demand. Considering the multi-layered causes of unmet demand, a healthcare system reform that increases the regional self-sufficiency of INCS is required.
