To explore the discharge challenges faced by patients experiencing homelessness, particularly those with Alternate Level of Care (ALC) designations.
Approach:
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Key Findings:
Patients experiencing homelessness with ALC designations often require more intensive services than typical shelters provide.
22.0% of patients with recent homelessness self-discharged, which is consistent with past studies showing high rates of discharge against medical advice.
Medical respite programs and supportive housing are suggested as potential interventions to improve outcomes.
Interpretation:
The findings suggest a need for enhanced discharge planning and services tailored to the specific needs of patients experiencing homelessness, particularly those with complex health issues.
Limitations:
The study focused only on patients with extended hospital stays, not those with shorter or no admissions.
The availability of medical respite programs and supportive housing is limited compared to the demand.
Conclusion:
Addressing the discharge challenges for patients experiencing homelessness requires a multifaceted approach, including improved communication among care teams and the expansion of supportive services.
