Discharge information delays lead to safety concerns in UK

Patient Safety Monitor Alert

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April 4, 2007

A National Health Service survey shows United Kingdom hospitals are not sending discharge information to the next provider of care in a timely manner, according to the BBC. About 70% of physicians reported discharge orders and information did not show up in the two-day time frame outlined by regulation.

 

Even when the information is conveyed, it is often unclear or incomplete. Nearly 40% of the physicians surveyed said the delays led to risks for the patient.