What should be a priority in designing systems to support transitions of care?

Making information easily accessible to both clinicians and patients is essential in designing systems to support transitions of care. During transitions, effective communication and the accessibility of relevant information are critical to ensuring continuity and safety. Patients often face significant changes in their care environment, and having easy access to their health information—such as medication lists, treatment plans, and follow-up appointments—empowers them to be active participants in their care.

Moreover, when clinicians have immediate access to patient information, it reduces the risk of errors, enhances collaboration among care teams, and leads to better-informed clinical decisions. This approach fosters a culture of safety and quality in healthcare, ultimately resulting in improved patient outcomes during crucial transitions, such as hospital discharges or transfers to different levels of care.

In contrast, limiting patient involvement in care decisions can lead to misunderstandings and non-adherence, while solely focusing on discharge timelines may neglect the quality of care and continuity of communication. Redundant processes, although they may seem beneficial, can create confusion and frustration if they do not directly enhance the accessibility and utility of information during the transition process.