**Failings in Continence Care Blamed for Intensifying NHS ‘Bed Blocking’ Crisis**
Concerns are mounting across the UK healthcare sector as mounting evidence suggests that inadequate management of incontinence among patients is amplifying the ongoing NHS bed-blocking challenge. Recent research points to deficiencies in continence care as a significant contributor to the congestion of hospital beds, delaying patient discharges and, in some cases, leading to avoidable hospital admissions.
A substantial survey commissioned by hygiene and health organisation Essity polled 500 healthcare professionals regularly treating individuals with incontinence. The findings shine a spotlight on a widespread belief within the medical community: improved recommendations and access to higher-quality continence products could dramatically speed up the process of freeing up much-needed hospital beds.
According to the survey’s responses, handling continence issues inadequately not only results in unnecessarily lengthy hospital and care home stays, but is also a direct factor behind delays in patient discharges. In fact, one in four professionals cited poor continence management as a leading cause of postponed patient release, stressing the ripple effect it has across other healthcare services and the broader social care ecosystem.
The issue of ‘bed blocking’—a term used to describe situations where medically fit patients are unable to leave hospital due to a lack of appropriate care in the community—has become a persistent issue in the NHS. Current data indicates that hospital bed occupancy rates regularly exceed 95%, putting immense strain on hospital resources and affecting the ability to admit new patients.
Health policy reform is being widely touted as a possible solution to these challenges. Earlier this year, Lord Philip Hunt proposed a new government policy focused on enhancing patient experiences and outcomes, rather than prioritising cost-cutting measures. Though heralded by experts as a major step forward, the policy’s implementation has been beset by repeated delays, prompting calls for its urgent adoption.
Among those advocating for swift reform is consultant urologist Mr Mark Stott. He champions a personalised approach to continence care, emphasising the value of bespoke care plans and better-quality continence products. “Incontinence significantly impacts the care pathway, early discharge, and even decisions about residential placement,” remarked Mr Stott. “Introducing comprehensive continence care plans can return patients to their homes faster, restore independence, and support their recovery.”
Mr Stott further explained that tailoring discharge processes to address individual continence needs reduces hospital stays, minimises relapses, and cuts down on unnecessary readmissions. He maintains that improved continence provision can transform patient wellbeing and reduce the NHS’s reliance on hospital beds.
Healthcare professionals surveyed also highlighted several closely related issues. Many believe that urinary tract infections—a common complication among incontinent patients—could be managed more effectively with improved knowledge and resources. Calls for broader education around incontinence, both for professionals and the public, were echoed by over half of those surveyed. Other frequently cited areas for improvement include pressure ulcer prevention, and the integration of mental and physical health within continence care.
Commenting on the procurement aspect, Richard Maddison of Essity warned against the continued adoption of cost-driven product selection within the NHS. “Choosing the least expensive product may seem prudent, but too often it leads to higher long-term costs and negative consequences for patient dignity and outcomes,” Maddison said. He argued that smarter spending—rather than simply more funding—could deliver far greater value and enhance the lives of patients and their families, as well as health professionals working under significant strain.
As the NHS grapples with sustained bed shortages and an aging population, the findings underscore an urgent need to reassess how continence care is prioritised and delivered. With improved planning, education, and procurement strategies, experts suggest the NHS could reduce bed-blocking, elevate care standards, and ultimately ease the burden on overtaxed hospital services.