Bed blocking in Dumfries and Galloway hits lowest level for more than two years

Bed blocking in Dumfries and Galloway has reached its lowest level in over two years, according to new data from Public Health Scotland. The report reveals that in October, an average of 81 people per day were in hospital due to delayed discharge, marking a decrease of 10 from the previous month. This figure is the lowest since May 2022, when the average was 79 individuals.

During October, a total of 2,511 bed days were lost in the region as a result of delayed discharge. Delayed discharge occurs when someone is kept in the hospital despite being medically fit to leave, often due to the lack of appropriate care arrangements. This number of bed days lost was down from September’s figure of 2,728, representing the lowest count since June 2022 when 2,500 bed days were lost.

A spokesperson from NHS Dumfries and Galloway commented on the progress, stating that efforts have been made to ensure the safe and timely discharge of individuals no longer requiring hospital care. Initiatives such as Discharge Without Delay and Discharge to Assess have been instrumental in this process. The latter involves conducting a baseline assessment of patients in the hospital, followed by a comprehensive assessment within 72 hours post-discharge at their own residence, allowing for a more accurate identification of needs compared to an inpatient assessment.

Winter pressures on the healthcare system may lead to fluctuations in discharge numbers, but the implementation of new initiatives and collaborative efforts of staff are acknowledged in navigating this busy period. The vital role of unpaid carers in supporting individuals post-discharge was also highlighted. Patients, families, and carers are urged to be prepared for discharge once arrangements are in place to allow medical staff to attend to those in need of immediate care and attention.

In summary, Dumfries and Galloway has made significant strides in reducing bed blocking to its lowest level in more than two years through effective initiatives and collaborative efforts within the healthcare system. The focus on timely and safe discharge of patients highlights the commitment to optimizing bed capacity and providing appropriate care for those in need.