Evaluating bed occupancy rates for chemotherapy patients receiving treatment at a tertiary care oncology hospital in Northern India.

Background:Efficient utilisation of day care beds holds importance for timely delivery of chemotherapy treatments in cancer hospitals.This study examines bed allocation patterns in day care units at a tertiary oncology hospital in Northern India, aiming to identify challenges related to bed availability for chemotherapy patients and timely delivery of treatment. Method: A retrospective analysis of Electronic Health Records (EHR) from October to December assessed daily bed occupancy, patient footfall, and procedural utilisation for pediatric (0–18 years) and adult (19+ years) patients. Statistical analysis was conducted to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement. Results: A significant portion of beds were occupied by non-chemotherapy procedures, contributing to delays in chemotherapy sessions. Post-procedural observation periods further restrict bed availability. Peak occupancy overlaps with high-volume procedures, highlighting the need for dynamic bed allocation and scheduling. Conclusion: To optimise bed utilization, protocols must be revised to streamline post-procedural observation and prioritize chemotherapy patients. Implementing real-time patient flow tracking and a dedicated triage system will enhance resource efficiency. A structured bed allocation approach, separating chemotherapy and non-chemotherapy procedures, is essential for improving treatment delivery.