discharging a patient without a PCP

[sassyann85]

Hello,

For patients that are inpatient in the hospital, when they get discharged, our MDs write for a prescription for usually 2 weeks of meds. Pts are encouraged to allow the RN to schedule them a PCP appointment within one week of their discharge from the hospital. Sometimes, pts will not sign a release to allow the RN to schedule an appointment with their PCP--they state they will call and make their own appointment bc they are unsure of their schedule, etc. We document in their discharge paperwork that they were informed of the need to see a PCP within a week of hospital discharge.

My question is--would there be any liability on the part of the discharging RN/hospital if the patient DOESN'T end up seeing a PCP and say, runs out of their medications that we have them upon discharge? I would think that the responsibility is on the pt to follow up with the recommendations to see a PCP. Thoughts? thanks!

[JustMeRN]

I can't imagine how any liability could fall on the hospital. In your example you made every reasonable effort, the patient has responsibility from that point.

Im in home care now, and the stark reality of noncompliance is pretty sobering. most people know exactly what they are supposed to do, but make choices not to.

[caliotter3]

I was discharged from the ER many times without a PCP and no prescriptions were written for meds other than, perhaps, an antibiotic incident to the visit. I was told to get a PCP.

[Libby1987]

What I see in home health from time to time, well actually a little too frequently, are patients who don't have the wherewithal to follow through.

[Here.I.Stand, BSN, RN]

I wouldn't think so. The patient is perfectly capable of scheduling an appointment, and it's very reasonable that he/she would have to check their calendar. Besides, making the appointment does nothing to ensure the pt will actually see the provider. I'd just document in the discharge note that the offer was made, and the pt opted to make the appt him/herself once home.