Delayed discharges in NHSScotland monthly
Figures for November 2024
Accredited official statistics
Main points
Number of people delayed
At the November 2024 census, there were 2,020 people delayed. Compared to the previous three census points, this is lower than October 2024 (2,030) and higher than September 2024 (1,951) and August 2024 (2,009).
The number of people delayed varies across the Local Authorities. Chart 4 in the All delay reasons workbook shows the variation in the rate of delays per population at the November 2024 census.
Length of delay at census point
The average (median) length of delay for people delayed at the November 2024 census was 29 days. This is slightly longer than October and August (28 days) and the same as September.
Average number of beds occupied per day
In November 2024 the average number of beds occupied per day due to people delayed in hospital was 2,023. Compared to the previous three months, this is less than October 2024 (2,029) and greater than September 2024 (1,968) and August 2024 (2,000).
The chart below shows that the trend in the average daily number of beds occupied by people delayed in their discharge is predominantly driven by the trend in standard delays (health and social care and patient, family and carer related) reasons.
1 Further information on the Delay Reason definitions is available in the Definitions we use section of this publication.
Delayed days in hospital
In November 2024 there were 60,696 days spent in hospital by people whose discharge was delayed. This is a 7% increase on the number of delayed days in November 2023 (56,811).