Modeling the networking between hospitals and follow-up care providers during discharge management - Insights from...

Digital platforms for more efficient hospital discharge management already exist. However, current solutions primarily focus on care services, while many patients also require therapeutic treatment after discharge. This study models the integration of previously unconnected external healthcare providers into the hospital discharge management process.

Eight structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with two general practitioners, two physiotherapists, two occupational therapists, and two speech therapists. Based on these interviews, an analysis of the current and target state, as well as user requirements for a digital platform, was developed.

Currently, networking between hospitals and therapy practices is largely analogue and inefficient. Appointment coordination is handled via phone, SMS, or email, often causing delays, and redundant efforts. Additional inefficiencies include unnecessary staff movement, redundant documentation, and delays in accessing patient information. Therapists require a digital platform to facilitate collaboration with general practitioners, specialists, medical care providers, nursing homes, hospitals, and rehabilitation clinics. Key requested features include electronic access to discharge letters, diagnoses, and findings. Email is the preferred communication method. A future digital discharge platform should automate patient referrals, enhance transparency, and improve efficiency through real-time tracking, automated documentation, and seamless integration with hospital information systems.

A networked digital platform is essential for the efficient exchange of discharge letters, diagnoses, and findings, enabling timely communication with all relevant healthcare stakeholders. Developing a comprehensive digital discharge platform, or integrating general practitioners and healthcare providers into an existing solution is strongly recommended.