More than 1,000 patients across Kent, Sussex and Surrey are occupying hospital beds despite being medically fit to leave, according to the latest NHS figures.
Bed blocking affects the availability of space for incoming patients, which leads to delays in A&E departments and delayed ambulance handovers.
On 30 November, NHS data showed 462 patients in Kent and Medway, 118 in Surrey and 614 in Sussex were ready for discharge.
The NHS said patients who wait longer to leave often have “complex” health and care needs. Kent and Sussex branches said they work with trusts and partners to find the right support.