County Hospital introduce a new project to support vulnerable patients getting home quicker

Vulnerable patients at County Hospital, Stafford are being better supported back into their own homes thanks to a new project which aims to reduce the number of incomplete discharges.

Clinical teams on wards 1, 7, 12, 14, 15 and the Track and Triage team have participated in the project, which aims to improve the package of care for patients, increase timely medication ordering and create a better process of booking transport online leading to patients being ready for discharge.

Early board rounds take place each morning as part of the project to allow teams to discuss all aspects of discharge providing a clear plan at the start of the day to ensure discharges have the best chance of succeeding.

Following the Step Change Project, the Track and Triage team found that the number of completed Transfer of Care (TOCs) documents increased by more than 50 per cent highlighting that if a package of care is requested early, it can be arranged, meaning discharges can be evenly distributed throughout the day. 

The changes made as part of the project will now become business as usual to benefit patients, staff and help improve patient flow out of hospital.

Nicky Cooke, County Hospital Clinical Operational Lead, said: “It has been a privilege to be part of the Quality Improvement Step Change Project for reducing failed discharges whilst working in collaboration with colleagues at Midlands Partnership Foundation Trust. I am proud of everyone’s engagement in taking this journey with us

“Well done Team County!”