Endemic Corridor Care in UK Emergency Departments: A Growing Crisis

A recent study by the Royal College of Emergency Medicine’s trainee emergency research network (Tern) has revealed that corridor care is "endemic" in the UK, with one in five patients receiving treatment in inappropriate settings such as hallways, offices, and cupboards. The research, which analyzed data from 165 A&E departments in March 2025, found that 17.7% of patients were treated in "escalation areas"—spaces not typically designated for patient care. This practice is in direct violation of national guidance, raising significant patient safety concerns amid ongoing overcrowding and treatment delays in hospitals.

The Guardian

Dr. Ian Higginson, president of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that the study highlights a "shameful practice" that is becoming routine in emergency departments across the UK. He noted that vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with mental health issues, are particularly affected. Reports indicate that nearly 150,000 individuals aged 90 and over in England experience waits exceeding 12 hours in A&E annually, with some enduring waits of several days in corridors.

The Guardian

In response to the findings, Health Secretary Wes Streeting pledged to eliminate corridor care by the next general election, asserting that such practices are unacceptable and undignified. The Department of Health and Social Care plans to publish corridor waiting figures for the first time, aiming to address the issue transparently. However, critics, including Dr. Higginson, argue that the crisis has not received the necessary attention from the government, warning that the situation could worsen during the winter months. He pointed out that the study's findings, taken in March, indicate that corridor care is a year-round issue, not merely a seasonal problem.

The Guardian

While the study presents a clear picture of the prevalence of corridor care, there remains a lack of comprehensive data on the long-term effects of such practices on patient outcomes. Additionally, the government's commitment to addressing the issue has been met with skepticism from healthcare professionals who question the feasibility of promised reforms.

The Guardian

• “National guidance states escalation area use is not acceptable; this research demonstrates it is routine.” — Dr. Ian Higginson, President, Royal College of Emergency Medicine

The Guardian

• “We are very concerned about the harm associated with long waits in emergency departments and how it puts patients’ lives at risk – for every 72 patients who wait between eight and 12 hours before admission, there is one excess death,” — Dr. Ian Higginson, President, Royal College of Emergency Medicine

The Guardian

• “That is why we will be publishing corridor waiting figures for the first time, so we can take the steps needed to eradicate it from our health service,” — Department of Health and Social Care Spokesperson

The Guardian

The findings of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine's study underscore a critical public health issue that demands immediate attention. As the government prepares to implement measures aimed at eradicating corridor care, the effectiveness of these initiatives will be closely monitored by healthcare professionals and the public alike. The upcoming winter season poses additional challenges, raising concerns about the potential for increased patient harm if systemic issues remain unaddressed.

The Guardian