This publication provides monthly information on the number of bed days occupied by hospital inpatients who are ready for discharge but whose discharge has been delayed. Figures are shown for Scotland, NHS Board area of treatment and Local Authority of residence for patients aged 18 and over.
Delayed Discharges - Monthly Bed Days Occupied
The data are considered accurate. Data are validated locally by partnerships. PHS carry out further validation checks in consultation with NHS Boards.
Number of bed days occupied by hospital inpatients who are ready for discharge, but whose discharge has been delayed.
It is the policy of PHS to make its web sites and products accessible according to [published guidelines](https://publichealthscotland.scot/accessibility-statement-for-public-health-scotland/). All delayed discharge reports are accessible via the [PHS website](https://www.publichealthscotland.scot/our-areas-of-work/social-and-community-care/delayed-discharges/publications/). Tables and charts are presented within an interactive Excel workbook with drop down boxes.
The [PHS protocol](https://www.publichealthscotland.scot/media/21716/2023-08-24-phs-statistical-disclosure-control-protocol-v21.pdf) on Statistical Disclosure Protocol is followed.
Data are not comparable outwith Scotland.
Data are validated locally by partnerships. PHS carry out further validation checks in consultation with NHS Boards.
Data are available for publication within six to eight weeks of the census month.
Key uses of delayed discharge information include monitoring policy obligations both locally and nationally, helping to troubleshoot in partnership areas with specific problems, facilitating benchmarking with other areas, identifying the potential release of resources to focus on more appropriate care and providing useful dialogue between health and social care agencies. Delayed discharge information is also used to respond to information requests (including FOI requests) from a variety of customers and parliamentary questions.
Data file for Delayed Discharges - Monthly Bed Days Occupied