The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation reported that more than 120,000 patients were admitted to hospital without a bed in 2023, a record number. However, the HSE and Department of Health dispute this, stating that trolley numbers actually fell by 20% in the last six months of 2023 compared to the previous year, with 80% fewer patients waiting on trolleys over the Christmas weekend. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly attributes the drop in numbers to increased bed capacity, staffing, and a year-round approach to emergency care. Additionally, health officials recommended that hospital senior managers carry out risk assessments to determine if the use of face masks by healthcare workers should be expanded.
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More than 120,000 left without a hospital bed in 2023 – INMO
