Hospital discharge report

Healthwatch Middlesbrough and Healthwatch Redcar and Cleveland were invited by the local hospital trust to undertake engagement on hospital discharge processes.

Feedback from residential and domiciliary care providers across Redcar & Cleveland and Middlesbrough shows that while there are examples of good practice, hospital discharge processes are often inconsistent and difficult to manage. 

Providers shared concerns about poor communication, last-minute discharges, and medication issues, which can lead to missed visits, safeguarding risks, and stress for staff. However, there are clear opportunities to improve—such as better coordination between services, using shared digital records, and recognising care providers as key partners in discharge planning. 

With more joined-up working and clearer processes, we can make hospital discharge safer, smoother, and more supportive for everyone involved.