Improving Discharge Efficiency through Standard Operating Procedures Mapping and Standardisation: A Narrative Review

Efficient hospital discharge processes are essential for optimising healthcare delivery, reducing operational costs, and improving patient outcomes. Inefficiencies such as poorly defined workflows and inconsistent adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) contribute significantly to delays and compromised care quality. This narrative review explores and compares the efficacy of the Process Mapping Plan of Action (PMPOA) and Standardised High Line Processes (SHLP) in minimising Turnaround Time (TAT) and enhancing discharge efficiency in medical and surgical wards. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, selecting studies that evaluated process mapping or SOP implementation in the context of hospital discharge with measurable outcomes, including TAT and workflow optimisation. Twenty studies were analysed, revealing key contributors to discharge delays, including late ward rounds, delayed discharge orders, and communication gaps. Findings suggest that both PMPOA and SHLP strategies are effective in improving workflow, reducing TAT, and enhancing overall patient care. Incorporating structured protocols, technological tools, and continuous monitoring mechanisms can lead to sustainable improvements in the discharge process.