[Quality of discharge summary for patients with limited life expectancy]

Abstract

The written discharge summary is the main vector of communication and serves as a critical method of patient information transfer between hospitalist and primary care provider. It is a shown challenge to timely delivery and completeness of a discharge letter, especially when it involves patients in palliative care or with a limited life expectancy. Despite the implementation of standardized letters and guidelines. Personalized interactive information transfer of hospital discharge summary between hospitalist and primary care provider should include a written as well as the strong consideration of an oral transmission. This should ensure continuity of care and limit deficiencies in content and availability of critical medical information. Joint responsibility of continuous care instead of simply a transfer.