Fundamentally shifting discharge planning and post-hospital care

Increasing demand for healthcare has exacerbated the pressures hospitals around the world experience for beds, resulting in patients going home quicker and sicker. The transition from hospital to home can be challenging for both patients and their families, especially when patients require additional support to manage their recovery. Traditionally, community nursing services have provided professional care to support patient recovery after hospital discharge, but we question if this is sustainable given the impacts of COVID-19 and associated health service pressures, such as nurses leaving the profession, on the healthcare system. We have a real concern that future health systems will be unable to provide post-hospital care in the way we and our families expect.