16 September 2024

The MK Integrated Discharge Hub has been set up by Milton Keynes University Hospital, Milton Keynes City Council, and CNWL.

The three organisations have been working together over the past year to develop this initiative to make the experience of leaving hospital even easier for patients and their families. A diverse team of specialists will work 365 days a year to secure the necessary support for patients leaving the hospital and provide a smooth transition for them.

The team includes a dedicated Housing Officer to ensure suitable housing is considered at the earliest opportunity whilst a Voluntary Sector Co-ordinator will connect patients with community organisations that can help them maintain their independence at home.

Local partners such as Age UK and Healthwatch will work alongside the hub to offer practical support to families as well as gathering feedback from patients.

By combining services, the hub will act as a central point of contact which simplifies the process, reduces duplication, and minimises the likelihood of delays caused by moving between services – a common issue across the country.

Milton Keynes has been recognised for prompt discharge of hospital patients who are ready to go home with the support of social care, previously being ranked by an independent body as number one in England for doing so.

Cllr Donna Fuller, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health & Communities, said:

“We’ve been working with our partners at Milton Keynes University Hospital and CNWL to develop this enhanced service which will make the process of leaving hospital as seamless and supportive as possible. This co-ordinated approach to discharge will benefit healthcare professionals and the people under their care. Milton Keynes has always had a good reputation in this area, and we believe the hub will enable us to continue delivering a high level of personalised care as the city expands.”

Karen French, CNWL’s Deputy Director for Milton Keynes Community Services, said:

“It’s a really exciting step to bring together the expertise of all of the teams from across various organisations for the benefit of the patients and their families and carers. Being discharged from hospital can be a scary prospect for some and so our new Integrated Discharge Hub team will be key to improving the patient experience by getting people home safely and in a timely way.”

Ian Reckless, Chief Medical Officer at Milton Keynes University Hospital, said:

“The launch of the MK Integrated Discharge Hub represents a significant step forward in how we can tailor our help and support for residents on discharge from hospital. By working closely with our partners, we can ensure that patients receive the comprehensive support they need to transition smoothly from hospital to home. There will be fewer delays – which are frustrating for all – and a real sense of ‘one team’ working with residents and their loved ones.”

For more information about the MK Integrated Discharge Hub, please contact: integrated.dischargehub@mkuh.nhs.uk