Homecare Association report finds that hospital discharge services need to be improved
The Homecare Association has published a new report which reveals that 63 per cent of homecare providers believe people are being discharged from hospital too soon, leading to re-admission.
Its report ‘Expecting the Unexpected: Homecare providers’ views of hospital discharge’ highlights the importance of getting the discharge process right for people who have been staying in hospital to minimise stress and prioritise their individual needs.
The report draws on findings from focus groups with homecare providers and a survey of 283 members, who represent over 21,000 care workers that provide care and support for over 31,000 people across the UK.
A key finding was that 35 per cent of respondents felt that most discharges that they were involved in were not safe while 55 per cent of providers said discharge paperwork does not reflect the person’s needs and views.
The report also emphasises the crucial role homecare providers can play in improving outcomes and the need for their involvement in short-term and long-term service delivery and development.
The Homecare Association has put forward 35 recommendations for NHS leaders, local authorities, and the government to address these issues. These include ensuring hospitals meet people’s basic needs when discharged, improving communication, including care providers in needs assessments, paying homecare providers sustainable rates on time, and involving homecare providers in shaping improvements in operations and strategic service development.
Dr Jane Townson OBE, Chief Executive of Homecare Association, said: “Investing in hospital discharge services is important. Hospital discharge does not need to continue to feel stressful, chaotic, and impersonal. More is possible. We call on integrated care system leaders and the government to address these issues and prioritise the basics to improve outcomes for individuals and reduce unnecessary costs.”
Last year, the Good Home Network published helpful information about how home improvement services can help facilitate timely hospital discharges.
