A new service could help tackle Dumfries and Galloway’s delayed discharge problem.
Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway has launched the Wraparound Hospital To Home Service to help patients return home from Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.
It will work alongside existing processes and boost efforts to cut down on unnecessary readmissions.
TSDG’s health and social care engagement manager, Niomi Nichol, said: “The service’s key aims and objectives are based on accessing resources within an individual’s own community to support a positive discharge experience in a safe and timely manner.
“There is a large resource available within the third sector and we aim to support a patient’s positive journey by coordinating the support of relevant third sector organisations and services.”
The service will make appropriate use of the resources within local charities and community organisations to support a patient through their hospital stay to their return home.
It has been developed by TSDG as part of a co-ordinated response to continuing pressures across health and social care within Dumfries and Galloway.
The approach aims to minimise delayed discharge, working to support and enhance the work undertaken by staff in areas such as patient transport, befriending services, meal provision, pet support, shopping services, home adaptation, and home from hospital packages of support.
Niomi added: “This will include enabling the patient to focus on their hospital stay by coordinating organisations to mitigate the stress of home life. Some examples are Carer support, support for pets, ensuring their home stays warm during winter months, and ensuring patient laundry is collected and returned.”
The service, which is initially funded by Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership, could be developed further in the
future.
