'Stranded patients' in NSW hospitals prompts call for change

The New South Wales Productivity Commissioner has issued a call for systemic reform to address the growing number of aged care patients who remain stranded in state hospitals. These patients, often referred to as 'stranded,' occupy acute care beds despite being medically cleared for discharge, as they await placement in appropriate aged care facilities or community support services.

The commissioner suggests that the state government must adopt innovative strategies to manage this issue, which places significant pressure on hospital resources and frontline staff. The initiative aims to improve patient flow and ensure that hospital capacity is preserved for those requiring acute medical intervention.