The role of collaborative decision‐making in discharge planning: Perspectives from patients, family members and health professionals

Abstract

AbstractAimTo explore discharge planning with a range of key stakeholders in subacute care, including consumers.DesignQualitative descriptive study.MethodsPatients (n = 16), families (n = 16), clinicians (n = 17) and managers (n = 12) participated in semi‐structured interviews or focus groups. Following transcription, data were analysed thematically.ResultsThe overarching facilitator of effective discharge planning was collaborative communication, leading to shared expectations by all stakeholders. Collaborative communication was underpinned by four key themes: patient‐ and family‐centred decision‐making, early goal setting, strong inter‐ and intra‐disciplinary teamwork, and robust patient/family education.ConclusionEffective planning for discharge from subacute care is enabled by shared expectations and collaborative communication between key stakeholders.Implications for the profession and/or patient careEffective discharge planning processes are underpinned by effective inter‐ and intra‐disciplinary teamwork. Healthcare networks should foster environments that promote effective communication between and within multidisciplinary team members as well as with patients and their families. Applying these principles to discharge planning may assist in reducing length of stays and rates of preventable readmissions post‐discharge.ImpactThis study addressed a lack of knowledge about effective discharge planning in Australian subacute care. It found that collaborative communication between stakeholders was an overarching facilitator of effective discharge planning. This finding impacts subacute service design and professional education.Reporting methodCOREQ guidelines were followed in reporting this study.Patient or public contributionNo patient or public contribution in the design, data analysis or preparation of the manuscript.