Addressing increased demand for health services with limited capacity: Challenges and strategies

This paper examines the growing challenge of increased demand for health services in the context of limited healthcare capacity. A comprehensive literature review analyzed studies published between 2000-2013 on healthcare demand, capacity constraints, and strategies to address this imbalance. The review included 30 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Results demonstrate that aging populations, rising chronic disease prevalence, and expanded insurance coverage contribute to increased healthcare demand. Capacity limitations stem from workforce shortages, infrastructure constraints, and financial pressures. Strategies to address this challenge include implementing efficiency improvements, leveraging technology, expanding primary care and preventive services, and developing new care delivery models. While these approaches show promise, significant barriers to implementation still need to be addressed. This review highlights the complex nature of balancing healthcare demand and capacity and emphasizes the need for multifaceted, system-wide solutions.