Virtual ward expansion stalls despite record take-up

Virtual ward occupancy hit a record high in January but expansion has stalled over the past 12 months, according to analysis of official figures.

In January 2026, 11,474 patients occupied virtual ward “beds”, representing 90% occupancy of the 12,725 capacity.

This is a 13% increase in patients compared to the same period in 2025, when there were 10,162 patients at 80% occupancy. February 2026 figures, published last week, show occupancy then fell from the peak in January 2026 to 84%.

Despite this rise in use, capacity has stalled nationally. Between January 2025 and January 2026, virtual ward capacity grew by just 98 “beds” (0.8%) compared with an increase of 992 (8%) the previous year.

The plateau reflects a shift in national priorities and the end of ring-fenced funding in March 2024. NHS England had provided £450m of dedicated funding over two years to support virtual ward expansion.

One leader close to the programme told HSJ that the focus from the centre on A&E performance targets had shifted priority among commissioners.

They added that the slower-than-expected rollout of the neighbourhood health service had also created uncertainty about where virtual wards – which involve the use of technology to care for patients in their own home when they would otherwise be in hospital – fit in future planning.

Meanwhile, virtual ward technology suppliers told HSJ that some systems have had budgets reduced or paused, and others have been told to demonstrate clearer cash-releasing impact of virtual wards before further expansion.

Read full story (paywalled)

Source: HSJ, 16 March 2026