Identifying Core Functions and Forms of "Discharge by Noon" Interventions

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Health Services Research
• Hospital Operations

Background:

• Hospitals implement Discharge by Noon (DBN) programs to enhance patient flow.
• However, the effectiveness of DBN initiatives has yielded varied outcomes.
• A need exists to understand the critical components of successful DBN programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define the core functions and forms of Discharge by Noon (DBN) interventions.
• To utilize a complex health intervention framework for this definition.
• To provide guidance for optimizing DBN program structures.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach combining a qualitative study with a scoping review.
• Involved 22 multidisciplinary stakeholders across two Michigan hospitals.
• Data collection included stakeholder surveys and a comprehensive literature review.

Main Results:

• Six core functions for DBN programs were identified from stakeholder input, with one additional function from the literature review.
• The scoping review of 17 studies found 88% reported DBN program improvements.
• Effective DBN interventions frequently included multidisciplinary participation (76%) and structured communication platforms (65%).

Conclusions:

• Specific core functions are essential for successful Discharge by Noon (DBN) programs.
• Findings offer a framework to guide hospital system recommendations for effective DBN intervention design.
• Optimizing DBN structures can enhance effectiveness and promote resource stewardship.