What term is used to describe the cumulative census of patients over a specific period?

The term that describes the cumulative census of patients over a specific period is "Days of Care." This definition aligns with the concept of tracking the total number of days that patients are cared for in a healthcare facility during a particular timeframe. This metric is crucial for evaluating how busy a healthcare institution has been, as it provides insight into the volume of patient care being administered and helps in resource planning, staffing, and understanding patient needs.

In contrast, the other terms have different focuses. "Patient Statistics" generally refers to a broader range of data related to patients, which may include demographics, disease prevalence, and treatment outcomes, but does not specifically quantify the cumulative presence of patients over time. "Service Utilization" pertains to how services are used within a healthcare setting, including the frequency and types of services received, but doesn't specifically measure the total days that patients are present. "Patient Flow" refers to the movement of patients through different stages of care, emphasizing efficiency and timeliness in care delivery, rather than the total count of patient days.