Presentation Topic :

Delayed discharge: why Queensland hospitals are caring for more than 1000 people who could be living in the community.

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Across Queensland, more than 1,000 people remain in hospital, despite being medically ready for discharge.  
Without access to appropriate housing and supports, they are unable to safely transition back into the community - often spending extended periods in hospital environments that are not designed for long-term living or disability support.  

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Although few of these people will be eligible for NDIS Specialist Disability Accommodation, there may be opportunities for Specialist Disability Accommodation to support patients as they transition from hospital to home.
In this presentation, James Parker, Manager, Disability Health Policy in Queensland Health, will explore the systemic challenges contributing to delayed discharges - including administrative delays, housing and workforce availability and gaps in coordination between sectors - and the significant impact these delays have on the effectiveness of our public health system.

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James will also outline Queensland Health’s policy response and the work underway to address this issue. 

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This session is an important conversation for SDA & SIL Providers, Coordinators, Allied Health professionals, focused on enabling timely, appropriate transitions into the community - and ensuring people with disability can live where and how they choose, with the right supports in place.