Challenges have been identified in relation to hospital discharges into care homes. Specifically, delays have been linked with a wait for assessments to be completed to understand if a patient is appropriate for the particular home and whether they are able to meet the identified needs. Due to pressures faced within the care home at any given time, it can take up to a week, in some cases, to undertake an initial assessment. This causes the patient, who is medically fit for discharge, unnecessary and extended time in hospital as well as putting increased pressures on the hospital.
In order to overcome this challenge and to develop relationships with care homes, the Care Home Trusted Assessor(CHTA) role has been introduced to provide support to both care homes and the hospital, around discharges.
The
CHTA provides a comprehensive assessment which enables an informed decision to be made by the home manager, regarding suitability for the service. Managers can still visit the ward and meet the patient after the CHTA assessment if it is felt that needs can be met, alternatively, discharge can be coordinated if it is felt an appropriate placement. It is important to note that if you as the manager, do not feel able to support the needs of an individual based upon the CHTA assessment, you are not obliged to admit. Discharges must be safe.
The
CHTA can also review an existing resident who is in hospital where a home may be concerned that needs may have changed. We commit to undertaking as assessment for a returning resident within 2 hours, time of referral dependent, in order to try and facilitate a timely discharge home.
The
CHTA is not assessing the needs of the patient and is not involved in the decision-making process regarding home selection. Home managers maintain the regulatory responsibility for admissions and ongoing care planning.
To make a referral, arrange a joint assessment or a visit and for any further information contact:
julia.taylor@leeds.gov.uk 07595210217
helen.rayworth2@leeds.gov.uk 07712215156
For more information click here -
Trusted Assessor Role
External link .
