Coroner Warns of Deadly Hospital Delays

A coroner has expressed grave concern over patient safety, warning of a clear risk of further fatalities due to systemic delays in hospital patient discharge. This warning follows the death of 71-year-old Barbara Wingate, who was admitted to Medway Maritime Hospital after a fall. She ultimately died from her fall injuries, exacerbated by avoidable delays in diagnosing and treating her pelvic fractures. The coroner noted that such delays in patient assessment and flow were a near-daily occurrence at the hospital.

Wingate's case revealed critical issues with hospital bed availability and patient flow, preventing her from being admitted to the resuscitation department promptly. Evidence suggested that up to a third of hospital beds could be filled with patients awaiting discharge, significantly impacting the emergency department's capacity. The inquest highlighted that while the trust had internally improved processes, the primary difficulty lay in the timely discharge of patients into social care, especially for those self-funding their care.

In response to the findings, Medway NHS Foundation Trust acknowledged the impact of these delays and stated that trauma pathways have been strengthened with increased senior clinical oversight in the emergency department. The trust is collaborating with NHS and social care partners to improve timely discharges. Responses to the coroner's prevention of future deaths report are expected by 8 April from the Department for Health and Social Care, Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board, Medway Council, and Kent County Council.