§ 31. Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Minister of Health what figures are available for the average length of time spent by patients in hospital in 1958, 1962 and 1966, respectively; and what studies are being made to reduce the average stay, thus helping the clearing up of hospital waiting lists.
§ Mr. Snow16.3, 14.0 and 12.3 days respectively for patients with acute conditions; a joint Working Party of the Ministry of Health and the Joint Consultants Committee on the organisation of medical work in hospitals is studying this question among others. Studies are also being made by a number of institutions including universities.
§ Mr. RobertsBut would my hon. Friend consider a nationwide "O and M" analysis in hospitals to see what further reductions can be achieved? Are any figures available for the reductions in the waiting lists which can be achieved merely by reducing the average stay time in hospital by one day?
§ Mr. SnowWhat my hon. Friend wants is I think already being examined by means of the information system known as Hospital Activity Analysis, which provides knowledge about resources used for patient care and the outcome of care. This, it is hoped, will stimulate developments in medical practice.