§ 20. Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the current total number of geriatric beds in English hospitals; and what the figure was three years ago.
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§ Mr. BowisIn 1992–93, the latest year for which figures are available, the total number of national health service beds in England specifically designated for elderly people was 59,562. In 1989–90 the figure was 73,046.
In the same period the number of elderly people treated rose from 449,000 to 529,000, reflecting more effective treatments and use of hospital beds. In addition improvements in rehabilitation and community services are enabling more people to receive care at home, including things like hospital at home initiatives.