Patient Experiences of Hospital Discharge Pathways 1-3 in Newcastle Hospitals

Looking at patients' experience leaving hospital is an important part of understanding the effectiveness of the hospital discharge process. This report looks at discharge pathways 1-3, which include patients who still have significant care needs after leaving hospital, focusing on two particular hospitals in Newcastle – the RVI (Royal Victoria Infirmary) and the Freeman Hospital.

Our findings suggest a lack of clarity, with 82% of participants being unsure what discharge pathway they were put on. Communication between hospital staff and patients remains a significant challenge, as does coordination between healthcare teams and caregivers. This has an impact on follow-on care, with patients reporting a lack of post-discharge communication and feelings of anxiety due to insufficient information or misunderstandings.

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