A new service is being launched to help support a patient’s return home from Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary and reduce the risk of delayed discharge.
The Wraparound Hospital to Home Service by Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway (TSDG) will work alongside existing processes and will also assist efforts to minimise unnecessary readmission.
The service will make appropriate use of the resources within local charities and community organisations to support a patient’s journey through their hospital stay to back home.
This test of change has been developed by TSDG as part of a co-ordinated response to continuing pressures across health and social care within Dumfries and Galloway.
Niomi Nichol, TSDG’s Health and Social Care Engagement Manager, said: “The service’s key aims and objectives are based on accessing resources within an individual’s own community to support a positive discharge experience in a safe and timely manner.
“There is a large resource available within the third sector and we aim to support a patient’s positive journey by coordinating the support of relevant third sector organisations and services.”
This coordination will look to help minimise delayed discharge, working to support and enhance the work undertaken by staff in areas like patient transport, befriending services, meal provision, pet support, shopping services, home adaptation, and home from hospital packages of support.
Niomi added: “This will include enabling the patient to focus on their hospital stay by coordinating organisations to mitigate the stress of home life. Some examples are Carer support, support for pets, ensuring their home stays warm during winter months, and ensuring patient laundry is collected and returned.”
The service is a focussed piece of work by TSDG and is being initially trialled within Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary – as the largest acute hospital in the region. A dedicated coordinator will link with the patient and hospital staff throughout any stay to help prepare for discharge.
Future development of the service will be considered as it progresses – with initial funding having been provided by Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership.
