Almost 1,000 patients who fractured hip last year had to wait for surgery, new audit reveals

"Some improvement seen in more timely admissions from emergency departments, but lack of beds still causing delays"

"Almost 1,000 patients who fractured their hip did not receive surgery within the 48-hour target last year, according to an audit."

"Overall, 77pc (or 3,189) of 4,124 patients had surgery within the 48-hour timeframe, but there is concern at variations in delay among hospitals because surgery is the most important intervention for hip fracture care and recovery."

Nearly 1,000 patients who fractured their hip did not receive surgery within the 48-hour target last year. Overall, 77% (3,189 of 4,124) of patients had surgery within the 48-hour timeframe. Transfers from emergency departments to theatres or wards have increased, improving timeliness of some admissions. Lack of available beds remains a primary cause of surgical delays. Considerable variation in delay exists among hospitals. Timely surgery is critical because it is the most important intervention for hip fracture care and recovery.

Read at Independent