What are people's experiences of hospital discharge?

Healthwatch Haringey and Healthwatch Enfield undertook research on patients’ experiences of being discharged from hospital. The research involved 66 people living in Haringey or Enfield who had recently been discharged from hospital, with participants providing feedback through telephone interviews and surveys conducted at community engagement events. 

The report found that 62% of participants felt their discharge had gone according to plan, but many highlighted problems with delays, poor communication and a lack of information. Only 53% said they received enough information about what would happen after leaving hospital, and participants reported needing clearer guidance about medication, follow-up appointments, symptoms to expect during recovery, aftercare arrangements and who to contact if problems arose. 

Experiences of support following discharge were mixed. Only 53% of respondents felt well supported once they returned home, and some described poor coordination between hospital and community services, including expected visits from healthcare professionals not taking place. Just over half of participants said they would know how to access additional support if needed. The research also found that only 36% had a care plan in place when they left hospital, and many felt their views and wishes had not been fully taken into account.

The report concluded that hospital discharge processes could be improved through better communication, stronger care planning and clearer information for patients and carers. Participants generally preferred receiving information face-to-face, although some valued written information they could refer to later. Views on the proposed “discharge to assess” model were divided, with concerns raised about delays in assessments and ensuring that appropriate care and equipment were in place before people returned home.