Ever been in hospital or had a loved one in hospital and been unclear about what options are available when discharging? Most people want to get home as soon as possible, however may require some additional support before safely & confidently returning home.
In E36 we discussed nine different options and pathways available on discharge from hospital. Please note, the names of these programs may vary across Australia however it does give an indication of the main pathways available.
1. Return Home - suitable for those back to their baseline or needing low levels of additional care that can be provided by family, friends or their Home Care Package
2. Hospital at Home - short term assistance (approx. 2 weeks) at home whilst regaining confidence e.g. shower assistance, physiotherapy, medication management
3. Rehabilitation - intensive in-patient rehabilitation programs (minimum 4 weeks) delivered by a multi-disciplinary team with the goal of the individual returning home
4. Care Hotel - uncommon, but there are some places that offer hospital step-down services staffed by nurses 24/7 for individuals who may no longer be acutely unwell, but need some additional support before returning home
5. Geriatric Evaluation and Management (GEM) Unit - additional multi-disciplinary assessment for the elderly (particularly those with cognitive decline) overseen by a Geriatrician - most commonly used while determining the next suitable step for the individual
6. Transition Care Programme (TCP) - 12 weeks multi-disciplinary care for those who have capacity to return to living independently at home - can be provided in a residential aged care facility or in the individuals home
7. Care Awaiting Placement (CAP) - for people that require additional support & may need to move permanently into a residential care facility, however are still deciding where they may go
8. Residential Respite - could be used for short-term additional support or when trialing residential care facilities
9. Permanent Residential Care - moving into an aged care facility permanently, typically for those who require a higher level of care and may not be suitable for rehabilitation programs
As always, please send through any questions! You can do this through the contact page on our website - www.thetruthaboutageing.com.au, on Instagram @thetruthaboutageing or on Facebook @thetruthaboutageingpodcast.
