Welcome to this edition of Integration Minute, where we spotlight one of UTMB Health's key initiatives: improving the patient experience during discharge. Recognizing the pivotal role that discharge plays in the continuum of care, the UTMB Health Office of Integration is focused on creating a smoother, more supportive process to enhance patient satisfaction and outcomes.
Why Focus on Discharge?
Discharge is often a complex transition for patients and families. With medical instructions, medication changes, follow-up care needs, and potential lifestyle adjustments, this moment can feel overwhelming. A positive discharge experience, however, is linked to better recovery, fewer readmissions, and higher patient satisfaction. Our goal is to create a discharge process that is clear, supportive, and centered on patient needs.
Project Objectives
This project aims to:
- Improve Clarity and Understanding – Ensure that patients and families fully understand their care instructions, medication needs, and follow-up appointments.
- Strengthen Communication – Equip our staff with tools and training to communicate discharge information clearly and compassionately.
- Enhance Coordination – Develop a streamlined approach where care teams work together to address all patient needs before discharge.
- Provide Accessible Resources – Offer patients easy access to support resources, whether they are related to health management, home care, or community services.
Design Thinking in Action
We’re applying design thinking to understand patient experiences better and co-create solutions with them. By gathering insights from patients, caregivers, and our staff, we are identifying key pain points in the discharge process. Early ideation sessions have led to promising ideas, such as creating patient-friendly discharge packets, incorporating digital tools for personalized follow-up, and training staff in empathetic communication strategies.
The Role of Prototyping and Testing
Our team has piloted several prototypes, including a new discharge packet that uses simplified language and visuals to explain post-care instructions. Early feedback from patients has been positive, and we are iterating based on their suggestions. We’re also testing digital reminders for follow-up appointments and medication adherence, ensuring patients feel supported even after they leave our care.
A Collaborative Effort
The success of this project relies on collaboration across departments—nurses, doctors, case managers, pharmacists, and social workers all play crucial roles in shaping an effective discharge experience. By working together, we’re building a cohesive process that puts patients at the center.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, our goal is to make these improved discharge practices a standard across UTMB Health. Through this project, we’re not only enhancing the discharge experience but also building a culture of continuous improvement, where patient-centered care is always our top priority.
Stay tuned to Integration Minute for updates on this project’s progress and insights from our team members who are helping make a difference in our patients' lives. Together, we’re shaping a discharge process that reflects the values of UTMB Health: compassion, clarity, and coordinated care.