Lanarkshire’s health and social care chief officers have thanked the families and carers of patients for their support in helping loved ones return home safely from hospital.
As hospital and community services continue to manage winter pressures, both health and social care partnerships are working closely with NHS Lanarkshire hospital staff using the Discharge without Delay approach.
Discharge without Delay brings together ward teams, social workers, allied health professionals and community health and care services, with discharge planning starting from the day a person is admitted to hospital.
Evidence shows that returning home promptly when clinically appropriate leads to better outcomes and helps reduce the risk of physical decline associated with longer hospital stays.
Families and carers play a vital role in this process as their knowledge of routines, preferences and mobility needs and often helps shape a discharge plan that’s right for the person.
Claire Rae, chief officer, University Health & Social Care North Lanarkshire, said: “Families and carers play an important and valued role when a person is ready to leave hospital.
“We’re grateful for the compassion and support shown throughout the discharge process. When someone is ready to return home, this shared effort across hospitals, community services, families and carers supports people to leave hospital as soon as they’re well enough to do so.
“This plays a major role in protecting a person’s independence, confidence and wellbeing. Patients will only be discharged when it is safe to do so with the focus always on what matters most to each person, ensuring the right arrangements are in place for a safe and supported transition home.
Professor Soumen Sengupta, chief officer for South Lanarkshire University Health & Social Care Partnership, said: “My sincere thanks go to the patients, carers and families who work with us, often at times of stress and uncertainty.
“Families are never expected to take on more than they can safely manage. Open and honest conversations about what feels realistic allow teams to put the right supports in place, such as reablement, home care, equipment or links to voluntary sector services.
“The support, questions and insights from families and carers help our teams make sure each person’s return home is safe and personalised. We truly value the support our teams see every day.”
