A recent report highlights a troubling trend within the NHS: elderly patients are increasingly enduring lengthy waits in Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments, with over one in five facing delays of more than 12 hours. This distressing data from the Nuffield Trust exposes systemic issues that have persisted for years, with frail individuals aged 81 and older suffering the most from this crisis.
A Disproportionate Burden on the Elderly
The Nuffield Trust’s findings reveal that in 2025, a staggering 43 per cent of patients over the age of 80 experienced waits exceeding 12 hours before being admitted to hospital wards. In stark contrast, only 19 per cent of those aged 21 to 30 faced similar delays. This stark disparity underscores the vulnerability of older adults in the healthcare system, where they often find themselves in precarious situations, receiving what is termed “corridor care.” This practice, which involves providing medical attention outside of proper clinical settings, raises serious concerns about patient safety and dignity.
Experts have traditionally linked longer A&E wait times for older individuals to their higher likelihood of hospital admission. However, this report challenges that assumption, indicating that older patients, regardless of their admission status, consistently wait longer than their younger counterparts.
The Reality of Corridor Care
“Corridor care” refers to the treatment administered in environments that do not meet basic patient rights, such as privacy and access to essential facilities. The lack of adequate hospital beds and insufficient social care resources outside of hospitals contribute significantly to this troubling phenomenon. In May alone, nearly 3,000 patients daily were treated in makeshift areas within hospitals, highlighting an alarming trend towards overcrowding and a lack of proper resources.
A staggering number of patients are affected annually; in February 2025, more than 72,000 individuals waited over 12 hours in A&E, representing approximately a third of all admissions. This situation is further exacerbated by various health conditions, as those suffering from airway or breathing issues, gastrointestinal problems, and neurological conditions were found to be particularly susceptible to extended wait times.
Calls for Urgent Reform
The Nuffield Trust has welcomed the government’s recent commitment to track corridor care, but experts warn that merely eliminating this practice is not enough. Sarah Scobie, the Trust’s deputy director of research, emphasised that while the data collection is crucial, there is a risk that hospitals might manipulate patient flows to appear more efficient, potentially compromising patient care.
Dr Ian Higginson, president of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, echoed these concerns, pointing out that simply diverting patients from A&E is not a sustainable solution. He stated, “Millions of patients will still need our services,” and urged for a comprehensive approach that addresses both the capacity of emergency departments and the social care system supporting hospital discharges.
Government Response and Future Considerations
A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care acknowledged the immense pressure on NHS staff, noting that three-quarters of A&E patients were seen within four hours in June. However, they also recognised the need for further improvements. The government plans to invest £450 million this year to expand bed capacity and enhance care delivery outside of hospital settings.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has indicated a renewed focus on social care reform, recognising its critical role in addressing the challenges faced by A&E departments. Enhanced support for elderly patients and their subsequent discharge could alleviate some of the burdens currently plaguing the system.
Why it Matters
The findings from the Nuffield Trust serve as a stark reminder of the growing crisis within the NHS, particularly as it pertains to the care of our most vulnerable populations. The prolonged wait times and the prevalence of corridor care not only highlight systemic failures but also underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reform in both the emergency and social care sectors. As the nation grapples with these challenges, it is paramount that we prioritise the dignity and well-being of elderly patients, ensuring they receive the timely and appropriate care they deserve.