Over 570 Patients Await Beds Across Irish Hospitals

The NHS is facing a severe capacity crisis, with 96% of adult hospital beds occupied and over 97,000 patients in hospitals, marking the highest levels this winter. Despite a slight decrease in flu cases, almost 5,000 beds were still occupied by flu patients daily, while norovirus cases surged by nearly 50% above expected levels. Health officials warn that the situation is dire, with many patients experiencing unacceptable care conditions, including being treated in corridors. The Royal College of Nursing highlighted that bed-blocking due to inadequate discharge processes is contributing to the overcrowding, with about 14% of beds occupied by those ready to go home. Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged the urgent need for reforms to improve patient experiences and ensure adequate care. Experts emphasize that, although the flu season appears to have peaked, the NHS is still grappling with the aftermath of high infection rates and ongoing winter pressures.