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. 2012 Aug;12(4):320-3.
doi: 10.7861/clinmedicine.12-4-320.

In-depth analysis of delays to patient discharge: a metropolitan teaching hospital experience

P Hendy  1 , J H Patel, T Kordbacheh, N Laskar, M Harbord
Affiliations

In-depth analysis of delays to patient discharge: a metropolitan teaching hospital experience

P Hendy et al. Clin Med (Lond). 2012 Aug.

Abstract

Delayed patient discharge will likely exacerbate bed shortages. This study prospectively determined the frequency, causes and potential cost implications of delays for 83 consecutive patients, who were inpatients for a total of 888 days. 65% of patients experienced delay whilst awaiting a service. 48% of patients experienced delays that extended their discharge date. Discharge delays accounted for 21% of the cohort's inpatient stay, at an estimated cost of 565 sterling pounds per patient; 77% of these hold-ups resulted from delays in the provision of social and therapy requirements. Discharge delays are costly for hospitals and depressing for patients. Investment is required to enable health and social-care professionals to work more closely to improve the patient journey.

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Figures

Fig 1.
Fig 1.
The relationship between delay to discharge and patient age.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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