Alzheimer’s Society comment on CHKS research into cost of excess bed days due to dementia

The figures were based on an average cost per bed day of £420 (taken from NHS Workforce 2009 data).  Excess bed days were counted as those where the length of stay was in excess of the expected length of stay for a given admission.

'This analysis highlights just how big an impact inefficient hospital systems can have on the public purse - though even this figure is likely to be an underestimate. Currently people with dementia are spending longer in hospital than those without the condition when they go in for routine operations. The care they experience during this stay is often extremely poor and considerable amounts of money are being wasted on providing it. 

A full report into the cost to the NHS of poor dementia care in hospitals will be released by Alzheimer's Society next month with the aim of prompting immediate action on this pressing issue.'

Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society

Ends

For further information on the CHKS analysis please contact Julian Tyndale-Biscoe at InHealth Communications on 07882 985597.

Notes to editors

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them. 
  
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with dementia today and for research to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk