New resources to support patients, carers, families and staff with hospital discharge
The resources, which also provide information and support for health and care professionals, support a new programme of work called Caring Steps Together, which has been established to improve people's understanding of what can sometimes be the confusing process of leaving hospital and accessing follow-up care.
Staff from across the health and care system in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire, have collaborated on the programme to provide a holistic view of a patient’s care journey, drawing on insights from professionals, patients, carers and families.
The new resources will help support patients, their families and carers to understand the process of leaving hospital and the other services that are available to provide support in the community.
Gill May, Chief Nurse, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said:
“It is a common misconception that hospital is the best place for a person’s recovery, as we know that people get back on their feet quicker when at home.
“This is why we’re getting patients and their families to think about the journey out of hospital as soon as they arrive, and it’s why we’re beginning to ramp up the support we give to people during the discharge process.
“Helping people to make informed decisions early on about their long-term care needs, whether that’s arranging social care or just finding out about support groups in the local community, will ensure their recovery journey gets off to a good start.”
The resources are available digitally and as printed leaflets and can be viewed and downloaded on the BSW Together website.
