Manx Care is trying to reassure the public over hospital bed capacity following a critical statement from the island’s Medical Staff Committee.
It follows a news release issued by the committee yesterday which raised concerns about pressures on services.
A meeting was held on Friday between the Medical Staff Committee, Manx Care, and senior leaders from the Department of Health and Social Care.
Further discussions are scheduled for the coming week.
Beds
In a statement, Manx Care confirmed the current number of available hospital beds is 233. This represents a reduction of 46 beds (16.5%) since the organisation was formed in 2021, which it said was due to some models of care delivery changing.
The authority moved to clarify occupancy levels, stating that a rate of 85% is considered safe and efficient. Its average occupancy for this financial year is 86.9%, which it says is therefore at a safe level.
However, it acknowledged that during the winter, occupancy levels have at times been at 90% or higher on some days, reflecting a pressure for beds.
To alleviate pressure, the Day Procedure Suite has occasionally been used overnight, and beds in nursing homes have been purchased for medically fit patients.
Hospital
Manx Care noted progress in reducing the number of fit patients in hospital, stating: “Since the establishment in 2024 of Intermediate Care – which enables more care to take place in the community – the number of medically fit patients occupying hospital beds has reduced from an average of 23 to 5.”
Regarding the Emergency Department, which it has identified as a priority for investment, Manx Care confirmed a 12-space Clinical Decisions Unit will open in the next few months to allow for extended assessment without admission.