James, Elaine and Hatton, Christopher Rowan and Brown, Mark (2017) Variations in rates of inpatient admissions and length of stay experienced by adults with learning disabilities in England. Tizard Learning Disability Review, 22 (4). pp. 211-217. ISSN 1359-5474
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Abstract
Purpose The present authors sought to (i) analyse rates of inpatient admissions for people with learning disabilities in England (ii) identify factors associated with higher rates of inpatient admission. Design/Methodology/Approach The present authors undertook secondary analysis on data submitted as part of the Transforming Care programme in England. Findings 2,510 people with learning disabilities in England were inpatients on 31st March 2016. Our findings indicate that: (i) people with learning disabilities are at risk of higher rate of inpatient admission than can be explained by prevalence within the general population; (ii) this risk may be associated with areas where there are higher numbers of inpatient settings which provide assessment and treatment for people with learning disabilities. Practical Implications Our analyses are consistent with the hypothesis that geographical variations in the risk of people with learning disabilities being admitted to inpatient services are not consistent with variations in prevalence rates for learning disability. The findings support the hypothesis that building alternatives to inpatient units should impact positively on the numbers of learning disabled people who are able to live independent lives. Originality Value This is the first study which examines the data which commissioners in England have reported to NHS England on the experience of people with learning disabilities who are admitted as inpatients and to report on the possible factors which result in higher rates of inpatient admission.