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10 May 2011, 16:45

The purpose of this research is to gain a better understanding of how effective a structured discharge plan and follow-up is when assessing the quality of care of geriatrics patients post hospitalization.  I examined the structure of the discharge plan and follow-up and evaluated how discharge planning and following up can improve the level of care within the elderly population. I also determined what needs are and are not being met and what components of the process need improvement. One hundred and sixty medical records were reviewed, providers from the hospital were interviewed and discharge summaries were critiqued. As a result I found that trainings/seminars on discharge planning are beneficial to the providers and patients. It was also proven that structured discharge planning and follow up care can help reduce re-hospitalizations as patients and their family may feel content and secure when they are followed up. Discharge planning and follow-up plays an important role, it helps to educate the patient, improve the quality of care and reduce health care spending.

Nyiema Hutchinson