Has regionalization fulfilled administrative expectations? Work load, utilization and therapeutic costs at somatic hospitals in Oslo
Stene-Larsen, G.; Hagen, H.
Tidsskrift for den Norske Laegeforening Tidsskrift for Praktisk Medicin Ny Raekke 109(5): 549-553
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-2001 PMID: 2922714 Document Number: 333735
Regionalization of the health system in Oslo has equalized pressure of work in the hospitals and improved utilization of available hospital beds. The Local Authorities have succeeded in restricting the increase in hospital costs through improved economic control. The study documents a considerable overcapacity of acute care beds and large differences between the hospitals in regard to waiting lists for surgical operations. Health care planners are recommended to give priority to the home care services and nursing homes, and at the same time reduce the number of acute care beds.