HC Deb 11 December 2001 vol 376 cc732-3W
27. Linda Perham

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures he is taking to tackle delayed discharges from hospitals. [19682]

Jacqui Smith

We are investing an additional £300 million over this year and the next as part of a radical 'cash for change' programme. This is aimed at reducing delayed discharges and targeted on the worst performing areas. This investment and reform will help to free up beds in hospitals, reduce waiting times for treatment and ensure patients, particularly older people, are cared for in the most appropriate place.

Redbridge council has received £369,000 from the £100 million announced on 9 October to fund reductions in delayed discharges in 2001–02.

35. Mr. Grogan

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what progress has been made on reducing delayed discharges from hospital. [19690]

Jacqui Smith

We are investing an additional £300 million over this year and the next as part of a radical 'cash for change' programme. This is aimed at reducing delayed discharges and targeted on the worst performing areas. This investment and reform will help to free up beds in hospitals, reduce waiting times for treatment and ensure patients, particularly older people, are cared for in the most appropriate place.

Miss McIntosh

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the level of delayed discharges. [19848]

Jacqui Smith

Figures for September 2001, the latest available, show some 6.6 per cent. of discharges involved a delay. We have allocated an extra £100 million this year to reduce the number of delayed discharges by at least 1,000 by the end of the financial year.

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