What are the Main Factors Influencing Variable Patient Demand?
Several factors can contribute to variable patient demand:
1. Seasonal Changes: Certain times of the year, such as flu season, can see a spike in patient numbers. 2. Epidemics and Pandemics: Outbreaks of diseases like COVID-19 can drastically increase patient load. 3. Holidays: Public holidays and weekends often see reduced staffing but can also bring in higher patient numbers due to accidents and other emergencies. 4. Time of Day: Emergency departments, for example, may see higher patient volumes during evenings and nights. 5. Demographic Changes: An aging population or an increase in chronic illnesses can also affect patient demand.
