Hospital Discharge 2025

This work gathered feedback on the discharge experiences of patients leaving hospital into care homes or with domiciliary care packages across Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland. The aim was to understand how discharge processes impact patient safety, continuity of care, and outcomes, and to identify opportunities for improvement.

Key Recommendations from the Report

• Always contact care providers prior to discharge to confirm support is in place and access to the home is available.
• Use a standard discharge summary that is clear, easy to read, and highlights changes in care needs, medication, and follow‑up actions.
• Respect and use hospital passports and care plans provided by care settings to ensure continuity of care.
• Improve medication handover, including clear explanations of changes and ensuring an adequate supply is sent with the patient.
• Coordinate transport and access arrangements to avoid individuals being discharged without appropriate support in place.
• Introduce a discharge liaison role, providing a named point of contact for care providers and families.
• Invest in shared digital systems, enabling timely and safe information sharing for people with care packages.
• Recognise care providers as equal partners, involving them in discharge planning and decision‑making.

Read the full report below