Overcrowding in hospitals expected again this winter?
- 16.11.2017
- EmmaArnold
- Clinical-negligence, Clinical-negligence
Last winter, statistics revealed how nine in 10 hospitals were overcrowded but are we likely to see the same this winter?
Hospitals are meant to have no more than 85% of beds occupied to minimise the risk of infections and delays in treatment.
However, analysis of 152 hospitals earlier this year showed 137 of those were above the 85% occupancy.
Hannah Bottomley, clinical negligence solicitor at Potter Rees Dolan, said:
As we head into the winter season I hope that the dreadful conditions which saw nine out of 10 hospitals classified as overcrowded last winter do not happen again.
Overcrowding can be uncomfortable and result in long waits but it can also lead to more serious issues such as those with life threatening conditions not being treated in a timely manner and, as we saw last winter, patients not being treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Hannah Bottomley is a clinical negligence solicitor here at Potter Rees Dolan. Should you have any queries about clinical negligence issues or indeed any other aspect of this article and wish to speak to Hannah or any other member of the team please contact us on 0161 237 5888 or email Hannah directly.