Overcrowded A&Es linked to higher deaths in NHS review
A large NHS-linked study of over 19,000 adult patients across 134 A&E departments, representing 70% of UK emergency units, found that each 10% rise in emergency department occupancy was associated with a 1% increase in 28-day mortality. Researchers measured occupancy during a two-week period in March 2025 and reported average occupancy of 175%, with lead estimates suggesting around 550 excess deaths per week and a plausible range of 33–1,083. The study highlights widespread corridor care, links long waits to higher mortality, and has prompted calls for more beds, staff and community services alongside government investment pledges.
A&E overcrowding is linked to hundreds of excess deaths weekly
Context
Emergency departments have become more crowded over many years. Corridor care was rolled out in 2022 to speed ambulance turnaround. The new study measured occupancy in March 2025 and could lead to calls for more beds and staff.
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