If you're unlucky enough to need a bed in an intensive care unit for COVID-19, cross your fingers that you'll get a bed at the right time.
That's because ICU patients treated during periods of increased demand are almost twice as likely to die compared to those treated in low-demand periods.
UPI reports intensive care units operating at 75% to 100% capacity were classified as 'high demand.' 'Low demand' was classified at less than 25% of capacity.
The study showed patients in ICUs operating at high demand had a 94% higher risk for death compared to those in facilities operating at low demand.
Hospitals in many parts of the country have reported being overwhelmed with patients requiring ICU treatment during the pandemic.
Research suggests up to 30% of COVID-19 patients require treatment in the ICU, with many needing mechanical ventilator support to breathe.