Authors (including presenting author) :
WONG CW(7), TAM S(6), CHEN J(6), CHENG L(8), CHING CC(2), PANG HIS(3), TSE KYG(3), NG LKM(4), PANG SY(4), SIU YCA(2), YEUNG A(3), LING YH(4), TO SH (4)(9), MAK YK(5), LEUNG MF(5), YICK PK(6), LEUNG CP(1)(7), TANG D(1)(8), LEUNG YYJ(1)(3), LAU KH(1)
Affiliation :
(1)RTSKH Hospital Management, (2)Department of A&E, (3)Department of Medicine & Geriatrics, (4)Department of Surgery, (5)Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, (6)Department of Pharmacy, (7)Nursing Services Division, (8)Administrative Services Division (9) Smart Hospital Management Committee
Introduction :
Improving discharge processes is crucial to enhance patient flow and optimise bed occupancy. Previous data showed that discharge rates before 1PM fluctuated between 17% to 21% (April - July 2024). An initiative aimed at revolutionising patient discharge process was launched in August 2024 to enhance patient discharge efficiency.
Objectives :
The objective is to expedite discharge process, with a view to achieve at least 28% of patients discharged before 1PM.
Methodology :
In July 2024, a strategic meeting with key stakeholders reviewed the discharge process. 1. Identifying bottlenecks: data from Capacity Command Centre revealed that the time taken for medication and patient readiness are the major challenges 2. Earlier Discharge Planning: Identify potential discharges during senior rounds conducted the previous day, and leverage AI Prediction IP Discharge functionality to predict patient readiness. 3. Prioritised Discharge Preparation: Special attention was given to patients dependent on NEATS, ensuring that all preparations were completed by 10:30 AM. 4. Streamlining Dispensing Workflow: Streamline dispensing procedures with the support of Paperless Pharmacy system to facilitate timely dispensing to wards. 5. Effective Staffing Solutions: Restructuring portering schedules to expedite medication delivery during critical times, particularly for NEATS-dependent patients.
Result & Outcome :
Since the implementation of these strategies in August 2024, a remarkable improvement in discharge efficiency has been observed. The average rate of patient discharges before 1PM soared from 18.4% (April – July 2024) to 38.4% (August – November 2024)and exceeding the ≥28% discharge goal. The collaborative efforts led by the Hospital Command Centre with the support of various stakeholders including doctors, nurses, pharmacy, administrative, and supporting staff demonstrated the effectiveness of structured discharge planning and workflow optimization in bolstering patient flow and overall service performance. Interdepartmental collaboration and proactive planning is important in surmounting operational challenges. This model not only optimizes resource utilization but also sets a benchmark for continuous improvement in healthcare delivery.
