06.09.12
Revolving door
The revolving door of alcohol abuse leading to increasing numbers of patients in A&E is spinning faster, if the latest data is to be believed.
The low price of alcohol and a social tendency towards binge drinking is leading to more problems for hospitals, which can barely have time to treat these patients before they are back again.
Misuse of alcohol should not be taking up this amount of the NHS’s precious resources. So action must be taken, to break the cycle by identifying and treating those who appear to have a dependency which could result in return visits.
The upfront cost of adding extra staff to A&E would swiftly be returned if the number of inpatients with alcohol related problems could be reduced.
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]