Key result
Policy measures have contributed positively to reducing delayed discharges, though pressure for rapid throughput may increase premature discharges and hospital re-admission rates among older people.
While policy initiatives have successfully reduced delayed hospital discharges for older patients, they may inadvertently increase premature discharges and subsequent hospital readmissions.
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Clinicians should monitor older patients for premature discharge risks; leaves open net effects of throughput policies on readmissions.
Karen Bryan (2010) conducted a review in Delayed discharge from acute hospital. Community Care (Delayed Discharge) Act (2003) and subsequent policy initiatives was evaluated on Impact on delayed discharges. Policy measures have contributed positively to reducing delayed discharges, though pressure for rapid throughput may increase premature discharges and hospital re-admission rates among older people.
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