“Fast Track” Discharge

Every area will have different processes and requirements for accessing a “fast track” discharge. The basic principles however are the same: if a patient has a terminal illness and is felt to be rapidly deteriorating at the end of their life, they may be eligible for continuing health care funding to facilitate ongoing care in their preferred place of care/death. The fast-track process speeds up the assessment and decision on CHC funding to reflect the fact that person has a very limited prognosis.

The fast-track process can also be initiated in the community to secure funding for appropriate care when a person’s condition is deteriorating, and they do not wish to be admitted to hospital. Familiarise yourself with the local procedures to support these decisions and plans for your patients.