§ Chris GraylingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what the definition is of a hospital bed for statistical purposes. [85773]
§ Mr. LammyThe full definition of what is counted as a hospital bed for statistical purposes is included in the National Health Service information authority's data dictionary, available through their website at http://www.nhsia.nhs.uk/datastandards/pages/version2.asp
In summary, a bed includes a device that may be used to permit a patient to lie down when the need to do so is as a consequence of the patient's condition rather than the need for active intervention such as examination. diagnostic investigation, manipulation/treatment, or transport.