Developing a framework for admission and discharge

Abstract

This paper reports the effects of creating and implementing a framework for formalised information sharing and improved communication between CMHT and ward staff, with the aim of improving admission and discharge processes on one ward in an inner city setting. A number of service changes were implemented including the creation of a clinical lead post to coordinate the process of admission to the ward by implementing a communication pathway and changing the roles of care coordinator and ward staff. Data were collected over a 12 month period during which 132 service users were notified as potentially requiring admission. Admission was avoided for 22 of them. The authors report asignificant improvement in the quality of communication and information shared between ward and CMHT staff. The authors were not able to formally assess the views of service users on the changes but they report anecdotal evidence supporting the initiative.