In a keynote discussion hosted by Kimball International, Advisory Board presented ongoing challenges and cautious optimism within the healthcare sector in 2024.
Ford Koles, Advisory Board’s expert healthcare economist, acknowledged the shared struggles faced by healthcare providers and systems due to the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that while improvements have been made since then, the sector has not regained its former strength. Key points from the event included the modest financial margins of hospitals, the improved yet still problematic labor situation, and the importance of learning from historical pandemics to enhance current practices.
Additional areas of discussion included the economic impact of the healthcare sector, its position as the third-largest economy globally, and the dissatisfaction that many Americans feel toward the healthcare system. Koles also addressed workforce shortages and improving efficiency. With changes in Medicaid and Medicare, as well as employer responses to healthcare benefits, the crucial role of technology (including artificial intelligence) was also analyzed.
Koles highlighted critical issues such as decreased vaccination rates, delayed medical screenings leading to later-stage cancer diagnoses, and increased behavioral health problems, all seen as consequences of the pandemic and societal fatigue. Despite the significant challenges, Koles expressed optimism about potential healthcare improvements and positive changes moving forward.
Kimball International’s involvement in this event underscores its commitment to supporting the healthcare industry not only through its products, but also by fostering discussions that drive innovation and improvement. Kimball International recognizes that well-designed healthcare environments can significantly impact patient outcomes and staff well-being. By hosting events like this, Kimball International is proud to be at the forefront of the intersection between healthcare and design, highlighting its role in creating functional, efficient, and healing spaces that address the sector's evolving needs.
Find optimism for navigating our challenging healthcare market by listening in.
About Kimball International
Kimball International is a leading commercial furnishings company with deep expertise in the Workplace, Health, and Hospitality markets. We combine our bold entrepreneurial spirit, a history of craftsmanship, and today’s design-driven thinking alongside a commitment to our culture of caring and lasting connections with our customers, employees, and communities. For over 70 years, our brands have seized opportunities to customize solutions into personalized experiences, turning ordinary spaces into meaningful places. Our family of brands includes Kimball, National, Etc., Interwoven, Kimball Hospitality, D’style, and David Edward. Kimball International, based in Jasper, Indiana, is a business unit of HNI Corporation.
For additional information contact:
Abby Troutman
Communications Manager