The hospital discharge process is essential to a patient’s recovery and continued care. For those needing home care, especially after complex procedures or treatments, the process can be fraught with challenges. The HomeCare Association’s 2024 report, “Expecting the Unexpected: Homecare Providers’ Views of Hospital Discharge” explores the difficulties and gaps within the hospital discharge system. Through focus groups and a survey of 283 homecare providers, representing over 21,000 care workers and over 31,000 people across the UK, this report sheds light on the challenges that affect patients, families, and care providers alike.
Key Findings from the HomeCare Report
The report highlights several critical issues with current discharge practices:
- Safety Concerns
Over a third (35%) of homecare providers reported that most hospital discharges they encountered were unsafe. These safety issues often arose from a lack of communication between hospitals and homecare providers, resulting in discharges without necessary information or support in place for the patient. - Inadequate Discharge Paperwork
Many providers (55%) felt that the discharge paperwork they received didn’t accurately reflect the individual’s needs. When critical information about medication, mobility aids, and other personalised care requirements is missing, it compromises the ability of carers to provide adequate care, leading to an increased risk of hospital readmission. - Premature Discharges and Readmissions
Alarmingly, 63% of surveyed providers reported that individuals were often discharged too soon, only to be readmitted shortly after. This pattern of premature discharge highlights systemic issues within the discharge process, where patients leave the hospital without the necessary care plan or resources to safely recover at home. - Basic Needs and Equipment Gaps
Nearly half of the providers reported that essential needs such as continence care and proper equipment were frequently overlooked. Incorrect or missing items such as medication, mobility aids, or hygiene products create additional stress for the patient, family, and caregivers alike.
Recommendations from the HomeCare Association
To address these issues, the HomeCare Association has proposed 35 recommendations aimed at improving discharge outcomes. These recommendations encourage collaboration between the NHS, local authorities, and homecare providers, with an emphasis on:
- Improving Communication: Hospitals and homecare providers should work closely to ensure discharge paperwork accurately reflects the patient’s needs and that necessary equipment and medications are in place before discharge.
- Integrating Homecare Providers in Assessments: Including homecare providers in needs assessments prior to discharge ensures that patients’ requirements are understood and accounted for, allowing care to be tailored accordingly.
- Timely Payment for Services: Sustainable funding and on-time payments for homecare providers are essential for maintaining quality care and adequate staffing.
- Strategic Involvement in Service Development: Engaging homecare providers in both short-term and long-term planning helps to build systems that meet evolving care needs and reduce hospital readmissions.
Dr. Jane Townson, OBE, Chief Executive of the HomeCare Association, emphasised the importance of investing in hospital discharge services to improve outcomes, noting that the current chaotic and impersonal discharge process can be improved with better planning and collaboration.
How Mumby’s Supports Safe and Smooth Hospital Discharges
At Mumby’s, we understand the importance of a well-coordinated discharge plan. Many of our clients schedule live-in care for post-hospital support, allowing us to prepare in advance and ensure everything is in place for a seamless transition. Live-in carers provide a comforting presence, help settle clients back into their home environment, and verify that all necessary items—medication, mobility aids, and other essentials—are readily available. This approach not only reduces the risk of readmission but also brings peace of mind to both clients and their families.
Mumby’s live-in carers play a crucial role by double-checking paperwork and liaising with medical professionals to address any discrepancies, such as incorrect medication or missing equipment. By proactively meeting the patient at home, our carers bridge the communication gap often present in the current discharge process and support the patient’s ongoing recovery.
“My father has dementia and after some time in hospital for a broken hip, it became apparent he needed more support at home. We were recommended Mumby’s Live-in Care by a family friend and from the moment I rang for an initial chat I knew it was the right choice. Care, compassion, understanding, knowledge and as important, for our family, a sense of humour. Dad is happy, mum is happy so – as an only child – I’m happy!”
“I was extremely worried when I came out of hospital, as I was living on my own and my ability to move around was greatly minimised. But I need not have worried because my carer was lovely, cooking great meals and generally looking after me. I got a glowing letter from the consultant during my 6-week check-up and that was thanks to my carer making me do the exercises.”
The HomeCare Association’s 2024 report on hospital discharge offers valuable insights into the ongoing challenges faced by both patients and homecare providers. With a significant percentage of discharges reported as unsafe or premature, there is a pressing need for improved collaboration, communication, and inclusion of homecare providers in discharge planning. At Mumby’s, we are dedicated to supporting safe hospital discharges by providing live-in care tailored to each individual’s needs, helping to create a smooth transition home.
Improving discharge practices will benefit not only the patients but also the broader healthcare system by reducing avoidable readmissions and ensuring patients receive the continuity of care they deserve.