Geneva University Hospitals Reports Strong Recovery and Expansion in 2023

The University Hospitals of Geneva (HUG) have released their e-Activity report for 2023, detailing a significant rebound in activity following the COVID-19 pandemic. The report highlights a return to pre-pandemic levels of operation, coupled with substantial investments in new facilities and advancements in medical research.

Key Highlights of 2023

2023 marked a period of recovery and growth for HUG, with several key developments:

• Increased Patient Volume: HUG welcomed 249,276 patients in 2023, including 42,195 in outpatient settings.
• Hospital Days: A total of 694,418 hospital days were recorded.
• Emergency Services: The hospital handled 142,458 adult and pediatric emergencies.
• Outpatient Consultations: 1,206,624 outpatient consultations took place, with 141,864 specifically for pediatric patients.
• Births: 3,922 births were delivered at the HUG Maternity Hospital.
• Surgical Procedures: A record 30,011 adult surgical operations were performed, including 9,931 on an outpatient basis, alongside 2,699 pediatric surgeries.
• New Facilities: The year saw the opening of the Center for Children and Adolescence (MEA), new adult emergency services, and the CORAIL Center. Construction began on a new helipad and an ambulatory surgery center.
• WHO Recognition: The Center for Emerging Viral Diseases was designated a WHO Collaborating Center.
• Medical Breakthroughs: HUG researchers, in collaboration with the Pasteur Institute, announced promising remission of HIV in the “Geneva patient” and a breakthrough in combating antibiotic resistance using bacteriophage treatment.

Financial Performance and Support

HUG’s financial performance improved significantly in 2023, with overall revenue increasing by 61.5 million francs. Medical revenues accounted for over 60% of the hospital’s income. Despite a 2.9% increase in operating expenses compared to the budget, deficit reduction measures implemented since 2022 resulted in a 72.3 million franc improvement in results compared to the previous year.

The Canton of Geneva provided renewed support, voting for an additional credit of 30 million francs, of which 22.7 million francs were utilized. Subsidies, including state compensation, totaled 758 million francs, representing one-third of HUG’s total revenue, a decrease of 12.8 million francs from 2022 due to the institution’s improved financial standing.

Addressing Staffing Challenges

While staff absences decreased by 1%, the overall rate remains close to 10%. HUG continues to prioritize efforts to address staffing challenges as part of its 2023-2028 HR Strategy.

Looking Ahead

The HUG’s 2023 e-Activity report demonstrates a strong recovery and a commitment to innovation and expansion. With ongoing investments in facilities, research, and personnel, the hospital is well-positioned to continue providing high-quality care to the community.

Sources:

• HUG – Hôpitaux universitaires de Genève
• University hospitals of Geneva in the midst of a global pandemic
• New missions of a hospital pharmaceutical technology unit during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Coronapp-HUG