Changes to hospital discharge in response to Coronavirus

What does this mean for patients?

Patients no longer have a choice over their hospital discharge, meaning that patients cannot stay in hospital if they choose not to accept the care that is offered.

Patients will still receive high quality care, and the priority is to make sure all patients are discharged safely from hospital to the most appropriate place for them.

Most patients will be discharged back to their own home. Their needs, discharge and transport arrangements will be discussed with the patient and their friends, family member(s) and/or carer. If the patient requires care and support when they are home, this will be arranged.

For patients who have more complex needs and cannot go back to their own home, a suitable bed in the community will be organised for them. It is possible that these patients may be moved more than once after discharge to find the best place for their long term care.

Any care provided will be free of charge for a period of time to support recovery. After this time, patients may be required to contribute to the cost of their care