The transition from hospital to home can be a challenging time for patients and their families.
Many patients require ongoing care and support after they leave the hospital, and it can be difficult to navigate the healthcare system and find the resources they need. In response to these challenges, Markham Stouffville Hospital in Ontario, Canada, developed a hospital-to-home program to support patients and their families during this critical time.
The hospital-to-home program at Markham Stouffville Hospital is designed to help patients and their families navigate the healthcare system and access the resources they need after they leave the hospital. The program includes a range of services, including care coordination, medication management, education and support, and home visits.
One of the key components of the hospital-to-home program is care coordination. When a patient is discharged from the hospital, a care coordinator is assigned to help them navigate the healthcare system and access the resources they need. The care coordinator works closely with the patient and their family to identify their needs and develop a plan of care. This may include coordinating with other healthcare providers, such as home care agencies or community health centers, to ensure that the patient has access to the services they need.
Another important component of the hospital-to-home program is medication management. Many patients require ongoing medication after they leave the hospital, and it can be challenging to manage multiple medications and ensure that they are taking them correctly. The hospital-to-home program includes a medication reconciliation process, which involves reviewing the patient’s medications and ensuring that they are taking the correct dosages at the correct times. The program also provides education and support to patients and their families to help them understand the importance of medication adherence and how to manage their medications effectively.
In addition to care coordination and medication management, the hospital-to-home program at Markham Stouffville Hospital includes education and support for patients and their families. This may include providing information on how to manage their condition, how to prevent complications, and how to access community resources. The program also provides emotional support to patients and their families during this challenging time.
Another important component of the hospital-to-home program is home visits. After a patient is discharged from the hospital, a member of the hospital-to-home team will visit them at home to ensure that they are managing their condition effectively and to provide any additional support they may need. This may include checking their vital signs, reviewing their medications, and providing education and support.
The hospital-to-home program at Markham Stouffville Hospital was developed in response to the growing need for support and resources for patients and their families after they leave the hospital. The program was developed in collaboration with patients and their families, as well as healthcare providers and community organizations. The hospital-to-home team includes nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals who work together to provide comprehensive support to patients and their families.
The hospital-to-home program has been highly successful in supporting patients and their families during the transition from hospital to home. Patients who participate in the program have lower rates of hospital readmission and are more likely to be satisfied with their care. The program has also received recognition from healthcare organizations and has been highlighted as a best practice in care transitions.