What can be an expected outcome of increased demand for health care?

Increased demand for health care typically leads to reduced access to health services. When more individuals seek care than what the current system can accommodate, it can create bottlenecks. This heightened demand can result in longer wait times, decreased availability of appointments, and strain on healthcare resources such as staff and facilities. As providers become overwhelmed, they may be unable to serve every patient in need, which ultimately limits access to necessary health services for some populations.

While increased demand might intuitively suggest improvements in quality or competitiveness, these benefits often take time to materialize and are not guaranteed. Instead, the immediate consequence of demand outstripping supply is often a reduction in equitable access, as those who may already be vulnerable or facing barriers might find it even harder to receive care. The dynamics of the healthcare market can exacerbate these issues, leading to further inequities in service delivery.