The role of the discharge co-ordinator is to provide the patient with an effective discharge plan with appropriate follow up care and/or community services. This is achieved by early referral and expert assessment, communication and participation between patient and carer, hospital staff and community resources.

A discharge plan is co-ordinated and the patient and carer are kept informed of all arrangements. Effective discharge planning can increase quality of care and optimise patient outcomes, reduce unplanned re-admissions and length of hospital stays and provide greater satisfaction for the patient.