§ Mr. DoddsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many beds are provided for inpatient care in hospitals in Northern Ireland. [118015]
§ Mr. BrowneThe average number of available beds provided for inpatient care in hospitals in Northern Ireland during 2001–02 was 8419.1.
This figure is taken from Hospital Statistics 2001–02 and includes all Programmes of Care. The average number of available beds is defined as those beds in wards which are open overnight, measured at midnight. Hospitals may also have a number of beds in wards which are only open during the day. Beds reserved for day care admission or regular day admission are not included.