Leaving Hospital

Each hospital will have its own policy and arrangements for discharging patients. Normally, the person in charge of your care will create a treatment plan. This will include your discharge or transfer plan. You will be able to discuss arrangements for your discharge with staff. This makes sure you have what you need for a full recovery at home.

How your health improves will affect the discharge or transfer date. As well as what support you will need after you return home.

During your stay you have the right to discharge yourself at any time. When leaving the hospital you will get a letter for your GP. This will have information about your treatment and future care needs. Give this letter to your GP as soon as possible.

Minimal discharge

Most discharged people only need a small amount of care after they leave. This is what we call 'minimal discharge'.

Complex discharge

If you need more specialised care after you leave the hospital. Your discharge or transfer process is what we call a 'complex discharge'.

For example;

• You may have ongoing health and social care needs

• Need community care service or intermediate care

• Or, need to go to a residential home or care home

As well as hospital staff, your discharge or transfer may involve other healthcare professionals. Such as, your GP or a community nurse. This might also involve organisations outside the NHS. For example, local authorities or independent and voluntary organisations.