Multi-disciplinary discharge coordination team to overcome discharge barriers and address the risk of delayed discharges.

Abstract

e23318 Background: Efficient discharge planning is essential in healthcare, especially for oncology patients with complex needs. Delayed discharges lead to longer hospital stays, higher costs, and fewer available beds. This study explores the use of a Multi-Disciplinary Discharge Coordination Team (MDDCT) to overcome these challenges and reduce the risk of delays. Methods: A quantitative study was conducted involving the analysis of discharge times, follow-up appointments, length of stay, bed turnover rate, and patient satisfaction. The MDDCT, comprising physicians, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, and case managers, was tasked with remapping the discharge process. This included identifying and eliminating bottlenecks using lean methodology, performing daily rounds, and employing an electronic tracking tool to monitor patient progress and discharge readiness. Data were collected from electronic health records and medical records, and statistical analysis was conducted using STATA 18 software. Results: The implementation of the MDDCT resulted in significant improvements in discharge planning. The average length of stay for patients decreased from 6.2 days in 2020 to 4.3 days in 2023. Bed turnover rates increased 4.79 in Q1 2021 to 5.5 Q12024, indicating more efficient use of hospital beds. Additionally, the percentage of missed follow-up appointments post-intervention dropped to 0%, demonstrating improved patient adherence to post-discharge care plans. Turnaround time for discharge medication preparation was reduced from 185 minutes in September 2021 to 118 minutes in March 2023, thanks to the establishment of a dedicated satellite pharmacy and enhanced prescription interfaces. The findings corroborate existing literature on the benefits of multi-disciplinary teams in healthcare. The MDDCT's holistic approach to discharge planning ensured comprehensive post-discharge care, reducing delays and improving patient outcomes. The study's implications suggest that hospitals should integrate MDDCTs into their discharge protocols to enhance efficiency and patient satisfaction. However, limitations such as the reliance on self-reported data and focus on a single hospital highlight the need for broader multi-site studies. Conclusions: Implementing MDDCT is crucial for overcoming discharge barriers and reducing delayed discharges. This approach ensures a seamless transition from hospital to home, optimizing resource use and enhancing patient care. Continuous improvements, including lean methodology and refined documentation practices, are vital for efficient and effective discharge planning.