Increase in patient falls

PATIENT falls in Dumfries and Galloway have increased by more than 30 per cent in the past five years, according to new figures. There were at least 11,179 patient falls between 2019 and 2024, according to Freedom of Information data, with an extra 704 when 2025 is included. The figures show that patients are becoming more likely to fall, with nine out of 14 health boards reporting an increase. Standard hospital guidance recommends avoiding clutter, individual risk assessments and ensuring patients at risk of falling should have a clear route to a toilet. Last year, the SNP Government froze plans to build new hospitals, treatment centres and surgeries citing budgetary pressures. Reacting to the data, South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth said: “Falls can be life-changing for older and more vulnerable patients. “Figures in Dumfries and Galloway have increased by a third since 2019, which is shocking. “With long queues at A and E and out-of-date hospitals, hard-working NHS staff are already stretched to breaking point. “The SNP must act now to ensure that patients don’t come to unnecessary harm because of the condition of the estate or overcrowding. “Our NHS needs a new direction – a Scottish Labour government will modernise our hospitals and ensure they are fit for the future.”