Q&A: Electronically Collecting Discharge Planning Data

Q. How can discharge planners collect discharge planning data? What type of software supports data collection?

A. The days of manual collection of data are over. Discharge planners who still use pencil and paper need to consider new information technology. Available software applications can do the following:

• Streamline discharge planning, also known as transition management
• Facilitate secure communications
• Enable tracking of all steps in the process, including time of admission to first evaluation, time of referral to date of discharge, caseload per staff member, and numerous other data points

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) describes software accessed via the internet. SaaS providers develop, host, and operate software for customer use rather than install it on-site. Provider organizations (e.g., hospitals and skilled nursing facilities) pay licensing fees to access the application on demand via the internet.

For more information, see Discharge Planning Guide: Tools for Compliance, Fourth Edition.

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