Decision details

Noted a report concerning the local implementation of a new national policy on reimbursement for delayed discharges from hospital, contained in the Community Care (Delayed Discharges etc.) Act 2003, which requires local authorities to pay NHS Acute Trusts £120 (in London) for each day a bed is occupied by a patient after the discharge date.  A shadow reimbursement system started on the 1 October and financial payments apply from 5 January 2004.

For 2003 / 2004, Barking and Dagenham Council will receive a reimbursement grant of £227,000.  The grant in 2004 / 2005 will be in the region of £450,000.  The grant acts as an incentive to reduce delayed discharge as any money not required to pay the charge may be invested in community care services designed to reduce both avoidable admissions and delayed discharges.