Experts claim improved incontinence care could alleviate NHS bed blocking crisis

UK medical professionals have warned that substandard incontinence care is exacerbating the NHS bed blocking crisis. A survey of 500 healthcare workers who look after patients with incontinence revealed that many believe hospital beds are being occupied by individuals who could be discharged sooner if they received better advice and supplies.

The majority of experts surveyed by hygiene and health firm Essity, stated that there are patients being admitted to hospitals or care facilities due to previous mishandling of their incontinence-related conditions. Furthermore, a quarter of these professionals believe this mismanagement can result in delayed patient discharge.

An Essity spokesperson has stated that the current high bed occupancy rates, consistently above 95%, could be significantly reduced if the government were to expedite a new policy announced by Lord Philip Hunt, a member of the House of Lords, in May 2024.

The policy prioritises patient experience and outcomes over cost. However, the implementation of this policy has been delayed for several months.

Mr. Mark Stott, consultant urologist, believes a number of beds could be released earlier, if patients received a tailored programme of care, along with better quality incontinence products.

He said: "We know a good continence care plan can contribute to patients getting home more quickly; it is that package of care which allows them to become independent again, and which speeds up their recovery.

"Early supported discharge, with a tailored plan - which takes into account the patient's individual needs, the reason for their incontinence, their physical and mental ability – can prevent help to reduce length of stay, relapses and readmittances."

The majority of professionals believe the new policy, once implemented, will allow patients to lead more dignified lives, with 53% predicting it will enhance the quality of care provided by the NHS.

Additionally, four out of 10 anticipate improvements in both the mental and physical health of patients. Furthermore, over a third believe it could prevent such admissions in the first place.

They also highlighted that urinary tract infections could be handled more effectively. Social care, pressure ulcers and improved care for mental and physical health were also listed as areas that could be better managed for patients suffering from incontinence.

Richard Maddison, spokesperson for Essity, stated: "It's clear when you speak to healthcare professionals that the way in which the NHS procures medical products has to change.

"Choosing the cheapest product believing it will save money is a huge false economy that not only ends up costing the health service more in the long run, but it completely disregards the negative knock-on effects such as unnecessary admissions, bed blocking, patient dignity, and ultimately the outcome for the patient.

"The current approach to procurement has a hugely detrimental impact on patients, their families, and healthcare professionals. The answer is not more money for the NHS, the answer is a smarter way to spend the money it has now."