Elucidating the information exchange during interfacility care transitions: Insights from a Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Patient Care
• Health Communication

Background:

• Transitional care is a critical phase in patient recovery, involving movement between healthcare facilities.
• Effective information exchange is vital for continuity of care and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patient, caregiver, and healthcare professional perceptions of information exchange during transitions.
• To identify challenges and facilitators in communication during acute to rehabilitation hospital transfers.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory qualitative study.
• Semi-structured interviews and observations were conducted.
• Participants included patients (65+), caregivers, and healthcare professionals at acute and rehabilitation hospitals.

Main Results:

• Three themes emerged: lack of clarity on care plans, receiving information passively, and difficulties in information absorption.
• Patients and caregivers reported limited engagement in care transition discussions.
• Healthcare professionals sometimes withheld information pending clarity on transition outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps exist in information exchange during hospital transitions.
• Enhanced communication strategies are needed to improve patient and caregiver involvement in transitional care.
• Efforts must focus on ensuring effective information flow between acute care and rehabilitation settings.