Gold Coast public hospitals are continuing to face a growing backlog of elderly patients stuck in beds while waiting for aged care placements.
New Queensland Health data shows that as of April, 177 clinically cleared long-stay patients were occupying local hospital beds, marking an increase of 30 from the previous year.
The local numbers reflect a broader statewide crisis, with more than 1,400 patients currently trapped in Queensland public hospitals through no fault of their own.
Of that total, more than 1,100 are older residents awaiting aged care.
Gold Coast Health Chief Executive Ron Calvert said some of the longest stay patients include those waiting more than 400 days for aged care or National Disability Insurance
Scheme support.
“This issue is not unique to the Gold Coast and remains a wider national issue, however the current shortfall in bed capacity in both hospital (approximately 600 beds) and the
aged sector continue to disproportionately affect the region due to our ageing population,” Mr Calvert said.
“Challenges in aged care placement often stem from limited engagement in discharge planning by patients, who may be under guardianship, or providers.
“Additionally, some providers are hesitant to accept individuals with complex needs, including significant behavioural or mental health issues.”
The Queensland Health Minister continues to pressure the Federal Government to tackle the rising numbers.
It comes as health experts stress that keeping seniors out of hospitals when they are medically well is essential for their well-being.
They say remaining at home preserves independence, supports positive mental health, prevents unnecessary hospital admissions, and delays the ultimate need for residential aged care.
