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NHS Beds Blocked: Patients Wait 8+ Days for Care
28 Apr
Summary
- 1,379 patients fit for discharge were waiting for social care.
- Patients averaged over eight days waiting for social care.
- Community therapy teams help prevent hospital admissions.
In the region spanning Kent, Sussex, and Surrey, a critical "bed blocking" issue persists, impacting the NHS's ability to operate efficiently. Currently, 1,379 patients who are medically ready for discharge remain in hospital beds, awaiting social care provisions. This situation, where patients are unfit to leave solely due to delays in social care, results in an average wait time exceeding eight days for these crucial support packages.
Services like the community therapy team (CTT) are vital in mitigating these delays. Operated by Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust, these teams work with patients both before surgery to enhance their strength and after discharge to facilitate rehabilitation. Their patient-centred approach focuses on maintaining independence and function, enabling individuals to remain in their homes and avoid prolonged hospital stays, as exemplified by Enid Ford's situation.
Common obstacles leading to delayed discharges include waiting for care home placements, confirmation of ongoing care at existing facilities, or the arrangement of additional home support. The CTT's intervention aims to streamline these processes, ensuring timely recovery and freeing up hospital capacity. This effort is deemed essential for health and care partners across Sussex.
