A Patient-Centered Transitions Framework for Persons With Complex Chronic Conditions

Hospitals are under increasing pressures by governing bodies to meet mandated performance standards and fiscal targets. As a result, hospitals are incentivized by funders to discharge patients efficiently and effectively. Gaining insight into the patient experience of discharge, as well as understanding patient needs and concerns, is prudent. Leveraging this knowledge may expedite patient discharge and potentially minimize hospital readmission rates. The purpose of this study was to better understand the discharge experiences and concerns of patients with multiple chronic diseases-a population currently understudied. In this study, qualitative survey data were analyzed from a large scale, mixed methods study that took place in 2011 at Bridgepoint Hospital, a complex continuing care and rehabilitation facility in Toronto, Canada. One hundred and sixteen patients were interviewed individually using a self-designed survey composed of open- and close-ended questions. All data pertaining to hospital discharge were extracted and examined using qualitative descriptive analysis. Key discharge concerns were related to process (next steps in the care plan, friction in the provider-patient relationship, premature discharge), consequences (relocation, impact on family, leaving the comforts and security of the hospital), and needs (availability of home care, managing daily activities, navigating the predisability home). Our findings are presented in a patient-centered framework that can be used as a guide for future discharge strategies for complex patient populations.