Navigating the transition from hospital to community: experiences of people with acquired disability and complex needs

Background People with disability and complex needs frequently face long hospitalisations. They also risk being discharged without adequate housing and supports. Hospital discharge planning is crucial for a safe and effective transition to the community. The aim of this qualitative, phenomenological study was to understand the lived experience of hospital discharge and returning to the community for people with acquired disability and complex needs. Methods Fifteen individuals (80% men) aged 31-66years, recently discharged from hospital and eligible for access to the National Disability Insurance Scheme were interviewed 1month post-hospital discharge. Results Three primary themes were developed: being in hospital, preparing to return to the community and returning to the community. Participants shared their experiences navigating the hospital system, disability services and the National Disability Insurance Scheme. They identified factors that facilitated their community integration and highlighted barriers that hindered their ability to effectively navigate hospital and community settings. Conclusion The current study findings underscore the complex interplay between hospital discharge and the transition back to the community for people with acquired disability and complex needs. These findings also highlight opportunities to co-design solutions that improve the experience of leaving hospital and preparing for life after discharge.