| Abstract: | Using a nationally representative sample of middle‐aged and older adults in Korea, this study examined the length of inpatient stays and associated factors. The pooled 2008–2012 data were obtained from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging, and study sample consisted of 7,805 individuals aged 50 and older. Guided by the Andersen's healthcare utilization model, latent growth curve modeling was conducted. Study results indicate that the average inpatient stay has slightly increased among middle‐aged and older adults in Korea. Furthermore, the severity of functional disability, the number of chronic health conditions, and the level of depressive symptoms were found to be key factors associated with the length of inpatient stays. In particular, respondents who received federal welfare benefits had longer stays than those who did not receive welfare benefits. Being employed and having private insurance were also found to be predictors of increasing length of inpatient stays. However, marital status was not associated with the length of inpatient stays. By understanding the pattern of inpatient stays and associated factors, policymakers should make an effort to develop innovative cost‐effective healthcare programs. |
