A new Discharge Lounge location has opened at Darlington Memorial Hospital, providing a calm and welcoming space for patients who are ready to leave hospital.
The lounge opened to patients on Tuesday 19 May and is based in ADU 2 on C Floor. It supports patients who no longer need to be cared for on a ward but are waiting for final discharge arrangements. This may include medication, discharge information, transport home, or transfer to their next place of care.
For many patients, the final part of their hospital journey will be spending time in the Discharge Lounge. The space is designed to feel more relaxed than a ward, helping patients feel one step closer to home while they wait.
Patients will continue to be cared for by the Discharge Lounge team, with support available while final arrangements are completed.
The Trust is also encouraging patients, families and carers to think ahead about discharge arrangements where possible, including how they will get home, who may be able to collect them, whether they have suitable clothing and footwear, and whether they need support when they arrive home.
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 provides 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.”
Using the Discharge Lounge also helps make ward beds available for patients who need acute hospital care, supporting patient flow through the hospital.
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.
Find out more information about leaving hospital and what to expect in the Discharge Lounge.
