There are currently 685 'delayed discharge' patients occupying acute hospital beds around the country, according to latest figures.

These patients have completed their hospital care and are fit to be discharged, but their discharge has been delayed due to a lack of community care facilities to cater for them.

Almost 90% of these are elderly patients over 65 for whom alternative arrangements have not been put in place, according to Home and Community Care Ireland (HCCI), which obtained the figures from the HSE.

"The HSE's own figures estimate the cost of a hospital stay per night at €800-€900 amounting to a conservative total cost of at least €540,000 each night the 685 patients remain in hospital, or the equivalent of over 25,700 hours of home care", according to HCCI.

The main reasons for the delay include people awaiting approval for nursing home care under the Fair Deal scheme, people waiting for home help, a home care package, access to a rehabilitation facility, or equipment from the HSE.

Michael Harty, Chair of Home and Community Care Ireland (HCCI), said:

"The most recent delayed discharge figures demonstrate once again the cost of the Government's refusal to provide a sustainable, joined up approach to elderly care. This inefficient system is costing the exchequer millions each year, and directly contradicts stated Government policy of helping people to remain in their homes for as long as possible", said HCCI Chair Michael Harty.