Which statement is true regarding future hospital bed availability?

The assertion that we face a hospital bed shortage due to an aging population and rising chronic conditions accurately reflects current demographic trends and health care needs. As the population ages, there is an increased prevalence of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and more, which often require frequent hospital admissions or extended inpatient care. This trend can lead to greater demand for hospital beds, as older adults typically have more complex health care needs that require hospitalization.

The aging population not only increases the overall number of patients who need hospitalization but also contributes to longer hospital stays due to the nature of chronic illnesses. Consequently, hospitals may find themselves struggling to meet the rising demand for beds, thereby leading to shortages.

The other choices suggest either a surplus of beds or a stabilization of demand, which does not align with the current trajectory of health care trends. It's essential to recognize that while outpatient services are becoming more prevalent, the specific demands from an aging population indicate a crucial need for hospitals to maintain adequate bed availability to meet these ongoing challenges.