WIREDGOV

Figures show increase in discharge rates.

The NHS in Scotland treated more people than ever before between October to December 2014.

Figures published yesterday show that inpatient and day case discharges in acute specialities rose by around 5,000 during the last quarter of 2014 to around 395,000 – the highest number of hospital discharges on record.

Discharges from emergency departments were up by more than 1800, while discharges following elective surgery rose by more than 3100.

Figures released yesterday also show that bed numbers have remained stable over the last year to December 2014.

Yesterday’s figures do not include intermediate care beds, however, there are now 700 intermediate care beds in Scotland which support older people and those preparing to leave hospital. Of these 200 have been created this year.

This is part of the government’s plans to develop new models of care built around treating more people in their own communities.

Health Secretary Shona Robison said yesterday:

“Today’s figures show that the first half of winter was a very challenging time with record numbers of people coming through our hospitals.

“As we have already seen in our A&E departments, this winter has brought an increase inattendances and admissions, as well as more severe flu related illnesses and more people with complex illnesses.

“I would like to thank staff in Scotland’s NHS for continuing to do a fantastic job to treat people as quickly as possible during this time.

“Figures also released today show, the overall number of acute hospital beds has remained broadly static over the past year, with numbers varying within the year depending on demand.

“Reducing the number of people who are unnecessarily in hospital is one of my key priorities, which is why this government recently committed £100 million to tackle delays in discharging patients from hospital.

“As we move towards the roll-out of health and social care integration we have created around 700 intermediate care beds in order to support the shift of more services into community settings."

Notes To Editors

The Acute Hospital Activity and NHS Beds Information statistics are available on the ISD Scotland website:http://www.isdscotland.org/

Information on intermediate beds is not included in ISD Scotland’s statistical publication.