Seasonal variation trend analysis on outpatient visits in a dermatology hospital from 2013 to 2017

ObjectiveTo analyze the regularity of changes in out-patient numbers with seasonal fluctuations at a dermatology hospital, and to provide scientific basis for improving hospital administration and rational allocation of medical resources.

MethodsStatistical analysis of dermatological outpatient visits at a dermatology hospital from January 2013 to December 2017 was conducted using the seasonal index method of time series data.

ResultsThe hospital outpatient numbers showed an increasing trend year by year.The seasonal index indicated that in February and July, there were the annual bottom (73.59%) and the highest peak (122.74%).The first and third quarters were the lowest (85.81%) and the highest (115.61%) in outpatient numbers.

ConclusionThe hospital administrative department should make adjustment on the allocation of medical resources according to the changes in the numbers of out patients, and carry out corresponding health education and guidance on the disease types of the outpatients in the month(the season).