Playing our part': Key fix for Tassie hospitals' 'stranded' patient problem

Tasmania’s health system is dealing with “stranded” elderly patients waiting in hospitals for appropriate aged care or assisted living places, increasing pressure on beds and care flow. Tasmanian Health Minister Bridget Archer said the state is funding three new aged care and assisted living facilities on government-owned greenfield sites, with the goal of having one operational in each region. She cited an average of 100 Tasmanians in hospitals at any given time who are medically ready for discharge to aged care or NDIS settings. Archer said some patients have been in hospital for up to nine months and that longer stays harm health over time. An expression of interest process runs September 26 to November 6.