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Download: effective discharge and follow-up

An illustration of how GPs can plan discharge more effectively.

This diagram from the NHS Institute outlines common key elements for commissioners to consider when planning for discharge, regardless of whether a patient is receiving emergency or elective care. They include:

  • Specifying a date and / or time of discharge as early as possible
  • Identifying whether a patient has simple (80 per cent of all patients) or complex discharge planning needs
  • Identifying what these needs are and how they will be met
  • Deciding the identifiable clinical criteria that the patient must meet for discharge