An initiative to improve advanced notification of inter-hospital transfers

摘要: Abstract Poor communication during inter-hospital transfer (IHT, the of patients between acute care hospitals) is common. Clinicians often report feeling unprepared to for IHT due inadequate advance notification. The aim this project was improve notification general medicine service patient transfers a tertiary referral hospital. We used quality improvement principles design and implement two interventions: (1) Use checklist; (2) Redesign role/responsibilities within Access Center Bed Control Department. Data on frequency collected over 9 months plotted statistical process control chart with evaluation special cause variation. also evaluated barriers/facilitators implementation surveyed clinicians information received 103 underwent study. Frequency increased from baseline 63.6%–85.4% post-intervention. Several contributors successful were identified, including ensuring key stakeholder input leveraging existing systems structure, among others. Survey results highlighted potential targets future improvements such as improved clinical available admitting in transfer. In conclusion, we successfully IHT, an essential step communication. Next steps include sustainment automation these efforts ongoing targeted ultimate goal improving outcomes IHT.