Authors: (including presenting author): :
Leung KYC (1), Tsang SCS (1), Yik WMJ (2), Yeung Kitty (2), Li KY (3), Chan WMM (1)
Affiliation: :
(1)Community Health Care, Kowloon West Cluster
(2)Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, PMH (3)Community Nursing Service, PMH
Keyword 1: :
Patient Empowerment
Keyword 2: :
Discharge Support
Keyword 3: :
Community Resources
Introduction: :
The 2023 Inpatient Experience Survey results revealed indications of improvement regarding pre-discharge information on community services for Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH). To address service gaps and enhance continuity care of patients and carers, PMH Patient Resource Centre launched the “Discharge Support 照顧延續•社區同行” Pilot Programme in June 2025. The programme was developed through interdisciplinary collaboration, with expert input from Community Nursing Service (CNS), Central Nursing Division (CND), and Medical Social Services Unit. For the pilot phase, recruitment and collaboration were primarily focused in PMH Medicine & Geriatrics (M&G) Department and Lai King Building.
Objectives: :
1. To raise awareness of community resources 2. To equip carers with knowledge and channels for proactive resource-seeking 3. To enable hospital staff to guide patients and families toward community services
Methodology: :
•Weekly talks on district support, community rehabilitation, home/long-term care, and carer services, recommended by collaborating departments with expertise in patients and carer needs, along with an interactive Q&A. •E-poster promotion in the pilot department to reach more relatives and carers.
•Distribution of a one-stop Comprehensive Community Resources Card with key links. •Post-session satisfaction surveys for ongoing refinements.
Result & Outcome: :
Results
Over 200 attendees participated and more than 600 Resources Cards were distributed during the half-yearly pilot. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive (100% satisfaction), highlighting increased awareness, proactive use of community services, reduced discharge anxiety, and greater confidence in community care. Attendance (in‑person/Zoom) was modest, as carers prioritized patients’ immediate needs. This has guided us to implement an enhanced service model that more effectively supports patient care. Conclusion
This initiative successfully equipped participants with accessible resources, fostering empowerment, proactive behaviors, and greater confidence in sustaining wellbeing in the community. Way Forward
•Respond to feedback: Enhance one-stop Resources Card with integrated 24/7 online videos, prioritising practical needs •Distribute hardcopies to those in need, add QR code versions for flexible digital access •Boost publicity: Display QR code posters linked to online resources pack across hospital •Sustain and expand: Continue regular talks and expand to a cluster-level; strengthen multi-sector partnerships with NGOs and patient groups; and conduct regular evaluation to ensure long-term impact
