What’s driving increasing length of stay in hospitals since 2019? (19 December 2023)

Summary

Prolonged stays in hospital can be bad for patients. Individuals who have longer hospital stays are at greater risk of falling and catching infections. Their physical and mental capabilities, including mobility, physical strength and awareness levels, may also be negatively impacted. 

Increases in length of stay can also affect patients waiting for elective and emergency care. The NHS has limited ability to increase hospital capacity. Therefore, longer stays mean fewer patients can be admitted.

This analysis from The Health Foundation, suggests that, despite accounting for just 9% of hospital admissions, COVID-19 is likely a key driver of the increase in length of stay. This suggests that whilst the impact of COVID-19 on hospital capacity was less severe in 2022 than during the peak of the pandemic throughout 2020 and 2021, it was still significant. As the government and the NHS in England look to recover waiting times, reduce the backlog and improve productivity, it is important to recognise the ongoing challenges posed by the virus.