The number of hospital beds in the United Kingdom has undergone a decline since the year 2000. Whereas in 2000, there were around 240 thousand beds in the UK, by 2023 this figure was approximately 166 thousand. This means over this period, there were around 74 thousand fewer hospital beds in the UK. However, since 2020, the number of hospital beds has been increasing, the first time in the recorded time period. Fewer beds but admissions are still high There were almost 18.5 million admissions to hospital between April 2024 to March 2025 in England. The number of admissions has recovered since the drop in year 2020/21. The busiest hospital trust in England by admissions in the year 2024/25 was the University Hospitals Birmingham Foundation Trust with over 391.5 thousand admissions. The average length of stay in hospitals in the UK in 2022 for acute care was nearly eight days. Accident and Emergency In the second quarter of 2024/5, A&E in England received around 6.7 million attendees. The number of attendances has been creeping upwards since 2012. Around 4 percent of people attending A&E in the last year were diagnosed with either an upper or lower respiratory tract infection, the most common diagnosis.

United Kingdom UK: Hospital Beds: per 1000 People data was reported at 2.900 Number in 2011. This records a decrease from the previous number of 2.980 Number for 2010. United Kingdom UK: Hospital Beds: per 1000 People data is updated yearly, averaging 4.600 Number from Dec 1960 (Median) to 2011, with 23 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 10.700 Number in 1960 and a record low of 2.900 Number in 2011. United Kingdom UK: Hospital Beds: per 1000 People data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Kingdom – Table UK.World Bank.WDI: Health Statistics. Hospital beds include inpatient beds available in public, private, general, and specialized hospitals and rehabilitation centers. In most cases beds for both acute and chronic care are included.; ; Data are from the World Health Organization, supplemented by country data.; Weighted average;

Forecast: Number of Hospital Beds in Publicly Owned Hospitals in the UK 2024 - 2028 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

The number of available hospital beds in NHS England decreased overall in the recorded time period, reaching a low of 118,473 in 2020/21. The number of hospital beds has since increased to pre-pandemic levels and shows the first signs of growing. As of Q1 2024/25*, there were 131,875 overnight, consultant-led hospital beds in the NHS England.

Forecast: Number of Hospital Beds in the UK 2024 - 2028 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

Forecast: Number of Hospital Beds in the UK 2022 - 2026 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

This data covers a time period during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which has affected NHS services. During the pandemic, hospital services in Wales were reorganised due to enhanced infection prevention and control measures, and the need to treat COVID and non-COVID patients separately. Subsequently, planned operations were significantly reduced and non-urgent emergency admissions decreased. As a result, hospitals experienced lower occupancy rates in 2020-21 than in previous years. This table presents summary information, from the QueSt1 return, provided by the NHS Wales Informatics Service (NWIS), on bed use in Wales. Data presented in this statistical release are an annual average and illustrate yearly changing occupancy rates and bed availability. Therefore, these data won’t reflect changing levels of activity throughout the year. The data do not present data on average length of stay, turnover interval and bed use factor. These indicators are calculated using data on deaths and discharges which is no longer collected via the QS1 return, and need to be derived from the Patient Episode Database for Wales (PEDW) for 2012-13 onwards. When carrying out more detailed analysis of the deaths and discharges data from PEDW in preparation for the 2012-13 release, data quality issues arose in relation to assessment unit (AU) activity reporting in QS1 and in PEDW and how this should be treated in the data. It was identified that there is inconsistency in the reporting of assessment units, with some LHBs reporting AU activity within their beds data, and others omitting them. This inconsistency in the reporting of AU activity is also likely to affect historic data. Please find information on changes to the data published on NHS beds, as per the given weblink.

This statistic displays the average daily number of day-only hospital beds available in England from 2000/01 to 2014/15. The number of day-only hospital beds has increased to almost **** thousand in 2014/15.

In 2023, there were an estimated 1,850 hospitals in the United Kingdom. The number of hospitals in the UK had been declining prior to 2015, standing at 1,568 in 2014, before slightly rising again in the subsequent years. Healthcare indicators Expenditure on health in the UK amounted to 10.9 percent of the GDP in 2023. This proportion has been increasing since 2000, with 2020 and 2021 being outliers. The pressure on general practices has been increasing in the UK in the last ten years. In 2016, there were 7.8 thousand patients to each GP practice on average in the NHS England. By 2023 it came to over 10.2 thousand patients to a practice. Opinion of healthcare in the country The quality of British healthcare is decreasing. In a survey of 12 European countries, only 50 percent of British respondents rated the quality of their accessible healthcare as good/very good, while nearly 20 percent regarded it as poor/very poor. This was the fifth place among countries surveyed, down from its top spot in 2018, when 73 percent of the public gave good ratings. Similarly, only 51 percent of Brits surveyed trusted that they received the best treatment offered, compared to 19 percent who did not.

Average daily number of available and occupied beds by sector, NHS organisations in England Source: Department of Health (DoH) Publisher: Department of Health Geographies: Primary Care Trust (PCT), Strategic Health Authority (SHA) Geographic coverage: England Time coverage: 2000-2001 to 2007-2008 Type of data: Administrative data

On March 31, 2024, there were 50 critical care (CC) beds in England occupied with patients who had tested positive for COVID-19. The number of critical care beds occupied with COVID patients peaked in England on January 22, 2021 when 4,096 patients required critical care treatment. For further information about the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, please visit our dedicated Facts and Figures page.

Bangladesh BD: Hospital Beds: per 1000 People data was reported at 0.880 Number in 2019. This stayed constant from the previous number of 0.880 Number for 2018. Bangladesh BD: Hospital Beds: per 1000 People data is updated yearly, averaging 0.370 Number from Dec 1970 (Median) to 2019, with 24 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 0.880 Number in 2019 and a record low of 0.155 Number in 1970. Bangladesh BD: Hospital Beds: per 1000 People data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Bangladesh – Table BD.World Bank.WDI: Social: Health Statistics. Hospital beds include inpatient beds available in public, private, general, and specialized hospitals and rehabilitation centers. In most cases beds for both acute and chronic care are included.;Data are from the World Health Organization, supplemented by country data.;Weighted average;

This publication reports on Admitted Patient Care activity in England for the financial year 2024-25 This report includes but is not limited to analysis of hospital episodes by patient demographics, diagnoses, external causes/injuries, operations, bed days, admission method, time waited, specialty, provider level analysis and Adult Critical Care (ACC). It describes NHS Admitted Patient Care Activity, Adult Critical Care activity and performance in hospitals in England. The purpose of this publication is to inform and support strategic and policy-led processes for the benefit of patient care and may also be of interest to researchers, journalists and members of the public interested in NHS hospital activity in England. The data source for this publication is Hospital Episode Statistics (HES). It contains final data and replaces the provisional data that are released each month. HES contains records of all admissions, appointments and attendances at NHS-commissioned hospital services in England. The HES data used in this publication are called 'Finished Consultant Episodes', and each episode relates to a period of care for a patient under a single consultant at a single hospital. Therefore, this report counts the number of episodes of care for admitted patients rather than the number of patients. This publication shows the number of episodes during the period, with breakdowns including by patient's age, gender, diagnosis, procedure involved and by provider. Please send queries or feedback via email to enquiries@nhsdigital.nhs.uk. Author: Secondary Care Open Data and Publications, NHS England. Lead Analyst: Karl Eichler

The number of publicly owned hospital beds per 100,000 inhabitants in the United Kingdom amounted to 249.54 in 2018. The number of beds per 100,000 inhabitants fell by 158.23 from 2000.

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Hospital Beds Market Size 2025-2029

The hospital beds market size is forecast to increase by USD 2.69 billion, at a CAGR of 9.9% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to the rising number of medical emergencies and the increase in infectious diseases. The global health crisis has highlighted the importance of having an adequate supply of hospital beds to manage the influx of patients. However, the high cost of automated hospital beds poses a challenge for healthcare providers, as they seek to balance the need for advanced technology with budget constraints. Moreover, the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, necessitates long-term hospitalization, further increasing the demand for hospital beds. Additionally, the aging population and their subsequent healthcare needs are also contributing to market growth.
To capitalize on these opportunities, companies can focus on developing cost-effective solutions that offer advanced features, ensuring they cater to the evolving needs of healthcare providers while remaining competitive in the market. Navigating the challenges of cost and affordability will be crucial for market success, as providers seek to optimize their budgets while maintaining the highest level of patient care.

What will be the Size of the Hospital Beds Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The hospital bed market continues to evolve, with dynamic shifts in market trends and applications across various healthcare sectors. Hospital bed frames, a fundamental component of patient care, undergo constant innovation to enhance ergonomics and support systems. Mattresses with advanced pressure distribution technology cater to the unique needs of bariatric patients, while ICU beds integrate intravenous pole systems and height adjustment mechanisms for intensive care. Bedside safety features, such as fall prevention systems and bedside rails, are increasingly integrated into hospital bed designs. Bedside monitors, lighting, and call systems further enhance patient safety and comfort. Hospital bed sustainability is a growing concern, with a focus on recycling and disposal methods, as well as the use of eco-friendly materials in bed covers and linens.

Anti-embolism stockings and durability are essential considerations in hospital bed design, ensuring patient safety and longevity. Hospital bed certification standards continue to evolve, driving innovation in bedside safety and maintenance. The market for hospital bed accessories, such as overbed tables and height adjustment mechanisms, is expanding to cater to diverse patient needs. Ergonomics and aesthetics are increasingly important in hospital bed design, with a focus on patient comfort and satisfaction. The integration of electric actuators and sterilization systems further enhances the functionality and efficiency of hospital beds. The ongoing development of pressure relief systems and anti-decubitus mattresses underscores the continuous pursuit of innovation in this dynamic market.

How is this Hospital Beds Industry segmented?

The hospital beds industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Manual beds
  Semi-automated beds
  Automated beds


Application

  Intensive care
  Acute care
  Home care


End-user

  Hospitals
  Home healthcare
  Elderly care facilities
  Ambulatory surgical centers


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

.

By Product Insights

The manual beds segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market encompasses a range of products designed for healthcare settings, including manual and electric beds, bariatric beds, ICU beds, and recovery room beds. These beds prioritize ergonomics, offering mattress support systems, adjustable frames, and pressure distribution systems to ensure patient comfort and support. Hospital bed sustainability is a growing concern, leading to the development of eco-friendly materials and recycling programs for bed components. Bedside tables, rails, and lighting provide added functionality, while certifications ensure safety and compliance. Hospital bed linens and covers, along with anti-embolism stockings, contribute to patient care and hygiene. Fall prevention systems and repair services ensure patient safety and bed longevity.

Operating room tables and electric actuators facilitate efficien

Brunei Number of Hospital Beds: Government data was reported at 1,415.000 Unit in 2023. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,594.000 Unit for 2022. Brunei Number of Hospital Beds: Government data is updated yearly, averaging 797.000 Unit from Dec 1971 (Median) to 2023, with 53 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,594.000 Unit in 2022 and a record low of 384.000 Unit in 1971. Brunei Number of Hospital Beds: Government data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Department of Economic Planning and Statistics, Ministry of Finance and Economy. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Brunei – Table BN.G005: Health Statistics.

Iran IR: Hospital Beds: per 1000 People data was reported at 0.100 Number in 2012. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1.700 Number for 2009. Iran IR: Hospital Beds: per 1000 People data is updated yearly, averaging 1.484 Number from Dec 1960 (Median) to 2012, with 13 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1.720 Number in 2005 and a record low of 0.100 Number in 2012. Iran IR: Hospital Beds: per 1000 People data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Iran – Table IR.World Bank.WDI: Health Statistics. Hospital beds include inpatient beds available in public, private, general, and specialized hospitals and rehabilitation centers. In most cases beds for both acute and chronic care are included.; ; Data are from the World Health Organization, supplemented by country data.; Weighted average;

During the financial year 2024/25, the busiest hospital provider in England was the ************************************************ with over *** thousand admissions. This trust encompasses four hospitals in the Birmingham area, one of the largest urban areas in England. The second-busiest trust this year was the ******************************************, with approximately *** thousand admissions. Accident and emergency admissionsIn the second quarter of 2024/25, there were around *** million accident and emergency (A&E) attendees in England (including at A&E departments not in hospitals). After the drop in A&E attendances during the COVID-pandemic, numbers have risen again to previous levels, with a trend towards an increasing number of individuals seeking emergency care. Around ****percent of A&E attendees in England in 2024/5 were first diagnosed with a lower respiratory infection. Furthermore, over**** percent were found to have ‘no abnormality detected’ which could be detrimental to a service that is already stretched. Waiting too longOver the last few years in the A&E department, the NHS has been falling behind the target that ** percent of patients should be seen within **** hours of arrival. The last time this target was reached was back in July 2015. Not just the A&E department, but other services also require lengthy waits. It is no wonder that the levels of satisfaction with the way the NHS runs is at an all-time low.

The number of admissions has increased year-on-year from 2000 to 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, hospital admission dropped in 2020/21. In 2024/25 there were around **** million admissions* to NHS hospitals in England, showing that admission numbers have reached and exceeded pre-pandemic levels. Of these, *** million were emergency admissions.

This publication reports on Outpatient activity in England for the financial year 2023-24. This report includes but is not limited to analysis of hospital outpatient appointments by patient demographics, diagnoses, attendance type, operations, specialty and provider level analysis. It describes NHS outpatient appointments in England, rather than the number of patients. The purpose of this publication is to inform and support strategic and policy-led processes for the benefit of patient care and may also be of interest to researchers, journalists and members of the public interested in NHS hospital activity in England. The data source for this publication is Hospital Episode Statistics (HES), which come from the HES data warehouse containing details of all admissions and outpatient appointments at National Health Service (NHS) hospitals in England. It includes private patients treated in NHS hospitals, patients who were resident outside of England and care delivered by treatment centres (including those in the independent sector) funded by the NHS. Please send queries or feedback via email to enquiries@nhsdigital.nhs.uk. Author: Secondary Care Open Data and Publications, NHS England. Lead Analyst: Karl Eichler.