Deaths data shows December peak

New information has been published linking hospital patient outcomes and deaths data.

The study uses information compiled by both the NHS and the Office for National Statistics.

NHS Information Centre chief executive Tim Straughan said: “The publication of this data means that for the first time, the NHS has access to new information on the pattern of deaths which occur both in and outside of hospital.”

The summary highlights national seasonal patterns in deaths within 30, 60 and 90 days of a hospital admission or procedure, alongside a detailed breakdown of deaths following each specific type of procedure or diagnosis. Initial findings show that December is the month with most deaths, both inside and outside of hospital, according to inpatient records from April 2007 to August 2010.

Straughan said the new data “will allow researchers to examine the reasons behind the summary findings – such as if the December peak in deaths is due to the rise in general population deaths during the winter, or if other factors are responsible”.

He added: “It also means that for the first time comparisons can be drawn between deaths inside and outside of a hospital for different procedures and diagnoses.

“We intend to build on the summary findings to provide even more detailed information in the future, which will help the NHS to plan services effectively and offer high quality patient care.”