Noodles, pita bread, rice? How more diverse hospital menus can improve care – and reduce costs

Noodles, pita bread, rice? How more diverse hospital menus can improve care - and reduce costs

A lack of familiar options can mean people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds don't eat properly.

Noodles, pita bread, rice? How more diverse hospital menus can improve care – and reduce costs

Koumaru/Getty ImagesMore than 5,400 cases of malnutrition develop in Australian hospitals each year. This means a patient doesn’t get enough nutrients during their stay for their body’s needs. Malnutrition delays recovery, increases the risk of complications and readmission, and ultimately pushes older adults into aged care. It’s estimated to cost the health-care system A$240 million each year. In the community, malnutrition affects about 10% of…