Malnutrition is a widespread issue in hospitals, affecting up to 40% of patients. It is associated with poor health outcomes, including increased infection rates, longer hospital stays, higher treatment costs, and increased mortality. Despite this, malnutrition is often under-recognized and poorly documented, leading to delayed treatment and complications. Nutrition screening tools, such as the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) and the Mini Nutrition Assessment (MNA), are effective in identifying at-risk patients and guiding referrals for dietetic care. However, in Australia, nutrition screening upon hospital admission is not mandatory, which is a concern given the high prevalence of malnutrition. The review emphasizes the importance of implementing mandatory nutrition screening to improve identification and treatment of malnutrition. Malnutrition is a complex condition influenced by underlying disease, metabolic changes, and reduced nutrient intake. It has significant consequences for both patients and healthcare systems, including longer hospital stays, higher complication rates, and increased mortality. Nutrition screening and assessment are essential for early detection and intervention. The review highlights the need for standardized nutrition screening practices and the adoption of validated tools to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. It also discusses the financial implications of malnutrition, including potential reimbursement losses due to under-diagnosis. Overall, the review underscores the importance of addressing malnutrition through effective screening, assessment, and treatment to improve patient care and reduce healthcare burden.Malnutrition is a widespread issue in hospitals, affecting up to 40% of patients. It is associated with poor health outcomes, including increased infection rates, longer hospital stays, higher treatment costs, and increased mortality. Despite this, malnutrition is often under-recognized and poorly documented, leading to delayed treatment and complications. Nutrition screening tools, such as the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) and the Mini Nutrition Assessment (MNA), are effective in identifying at-risk patients and guiding referrals for dietetic care. However, in Australia, nutrition screening upon hospital admission is not mandatory, which is a concern given the high prevalence of malnutrition. The review emphasizes the importance of implementing mandatory nutrition screening to improve identification and treatment of malnutrition. Malnutrition is a complex condition influenced by underlying disease, metabolic changes, and reduced nutrient intake. It has significant consequences for both patients and healthcare systems, including longer hospital stays, higher complication rates, and increased mortality. Nutrition screening and assessment are essential for early detection and intervention. The review highlights the need for standardized nutrition screening practices and the adoption of validated tools to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. It also discusses the financial implications of malnutrition, including potential reimbursement losses due to under-diagnosis. Overall, the review underscores the importance of addressing malnutrition through effective screening, assessment, and treatment to improve patient care and reduce healthcare burden.