A new Discharge Lounge opened to patients at Darlington Memorial Hospital on Tuesday 19th May, providing a calm and welcoming space for patients who are ready to leave hospital.
The new lounge, based in the main hospital block on C Floor (Floor 1), will support patients who no longer need to be cared for on a ward, but are waiting for final discharge arrangements, such as medication, transport, discharge information, or transfer to their next place of care.
The space has been designed to help patients feel one step closer to home, offering a more relaxed environment as they prepare to leave hospital. Patients will continue to be cared for by staff while they wait, with access to refreshments, comfortable seating and support from the Discharge Lounge team.
For many patients, the final part of their hospital journey will be spending time in the Discharge Lounge. The Trust is encouraging patients, families and carers to think ahead about discharge arrangements, including how they will get home, who may be able to collect them, and whether they need any support when they arrive home.
Using the Discharge Lounge also helps make ward beds available for patients who need acute hospital care, supporting flow through the hospital and helping patients receive the right care in the right place.
Julie Form, (General Manager for Outpatients and Clinical Site Management, said: “Leaving hospital is an important step in a patient’s recovery, and we want that experience to feel safe, supported and as smooth as possible. Our new Discharge Lounge at Darlington Memorial Hospital will provide a more comfortable and welcoming space for patients who are ready to leave the ward while final arrangements are completed. It is about helping patients feel one step closer to home, whilst making sure beds are available for patients who need urgent hospital care.”
The Trust is also looking at opportunities for volunteers to support the Discharge Lounge, helping to create a friendly and welcoming environment for patients as they prepare to leave hospital.