Informing the Development of a High-Quality Emergency Department Discharge Process: Insights From Patients and Practitioners

BACKGROUND: The emergency department (ED) discharge process in British Columbia (BC), Canada is inconsistent across multiple health authorities, leading to variability in patient experiences and outcomes. This study aimed to identify key factors for a high-quality ED discharge process across BC. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted with 21 patient participants and ED health care practitioners through semistructured Zoom interviews. Transcripts were thematically analyzed. RESULTS: Key recommendations included providing standardized discharge resources in multiple languages, generating automated discharge summaries, involving caregivers for continuity of care, ensuring time to answer patient questions, integrating follow-up reminders via text, and improving connections to social resources. A cultural shift emphasizing collaboration among ED leaders, clinicians, patient participants, and electronic health record developers is needed to enhance discharge practices. CONCLUSION: Insights from diverse partners highlight actionable steps to improve ED discharge in BC. Health care authorities and hospitals should support the adoption of best practices to enhance patient care and outcomes. Several actionable items were identified for implementation and/or further investigation.