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Intermediate Technical IVT

discharge planning

Systematic process of preparing patients for safe transition from psychiatric hospital to community care.

Full Definition

A comprehensive, multidisciplinary process that begins at admission and involves identifying post-discharge needs, arranging appropriate follow-up care, ensuring medication access, coordinating with community providers, and addressing social determinants that affect recovery. Effective discharge planning reduces readmission rates and improves patient outcomes by creating a seamless transition between inpatient and outpatient services. The process must consider housing, transportation, insurance, family support, and crisis intervention resources.

Usage

Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound adjective (discharge-planning process).

In Context

  • "Discharge planning meetings include the patient, family members, and community care providers." — case management notes
  • "Effective discharge planning begins within 24 hours of admission to ensure adequate preparation time." — clinical guideline

Also known as

transition planning aftercare planning continuity planning

Contrasted with

admission planning

Don't confuse with

treatment planning case management
de-escalation ← Back to glossary dual diagnosis unit

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