Factors that predict discharge destination for patients in transitional care: a prospective observational cohort study.

OBJECTIVE To investigate factors that predict discharge destination for patients making the transition from hospital to the community. METHODS Using a prospective cohort design, 696 patients from 11 Transition Care Programs were recruited. Baseline patient and program characteristics were considered for predicting discharge destination, functional status, and patient length of stay. RESULTS An increased physiotherapy staffing ratio in Transition Care Program was associated with an increased likelihood that a patient was discharged home, with an improved functional or mobility status, and after a shorter length of stay. The other factor that predicted discharge to home included having an Aged Care Assessment Service classification of low level care or home with a support package. An increased physiotherapy staffing level also reduced the likelihood of discharge to low level or high level care. The other factors that predicted discharge to low level care were having higher mobility status and older age; the other factor associated with increased likelihood of predicting discharge to high level care was having an Aged Care Assessment Service classification of high level care. CONCLUSIONS Factors on admission that predicted discharge destination were program physiotherapy staffing ratios, Aged Care Assessment Service assessment, age and mobility status.