Can GP input into discharge planning result in better outcomes for the frail aged: results from a randomized controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
We aimed to assess whether GP input into discharge planning for high-risk aged in-patients admitted under the care of a geriatrician results in improved patient outcomes.


METHODS
We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial in Sydney, Australia. The subjects were 364 patients aged 60 years and over. The main outcome measures included community service referral, accommodation changes, length of stay, readmission rate, length of time to first readmission and patient satisfaction with discharge arrangements.


RESULTS
No significant differences were found with regard to length of stay, readmission rates or time to first readmission. Test-group subjects were significantly more likely to be recommended for community services at discharge and to report that hospital personnel had discussed their discharge plan with them. Significantly more of the test group reported that their return home was well prepared.


CONCLUSIONS
Although GP pre-discharge visits did not alter the likelihood of 'hard outcomes such as risk of readmission', the results suggest that quality of care is enhanced amongst patients receiving a pre-discharge visit and that GPs can perform a key role in planning post-discharge care with other services.
McInnes
E
E
Division of General Practice, Central Sydney Area Health Service, Balmain NSW, Australia.
Mira
M
M
Atkin
N
N
Kennedy
P
P
Cullen
J
J
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D016330:Frail Elderly; D006299:Health Services for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009517:New South Wales; D010351:Patient Discharge; D010359:Patient Readmission; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012720:Severity of Illness Index