Delayed discharges video transcript
Despite being medically ready to leave some people are delayed leaving hospital. 
Last year, this meant people spent 720,000 unnecessary days in hospital. 
[Text on screen: 720,000 unnecessary days spent in hospital in 2024/25]
There are many reasons for delays, such as not having a power of attorney in place or not being able to get the help and support needed at home. 
Delays leaving hospital significantly impact an individual’s physical and mental wellbeing. 
This includes, increased risk of infection, reduced mobility, loss of independence, and increased health and social care needs. 
[Text on screen: Increased risk of infection, reduced mobility, loss of independence and increased health and social care needs].
And it makes it harder to admit new patients to hospital.
It’s a symptom of the wider challenges and strains facing health and social care services. 
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