Which role is primarily responsible for coordinating post-discharge follow-up with the primary care physician?

Which role is primarily responsible for coordinating post-discharge follow-up with the primary care physician?

• A. The physician who treated the patient in the hospital
• B. The care coordinator or case manager
• C. The reception staff
• D. The hospital administrator

Answer: (B)

Coordinating post-discharge follow-up requires a dedicated coordinator who acts as the liaison between the hospital and the primary care physician. The care coordinator or case manager ensures the primary care physician receives a timely discharge summary, schedules the follow-up visit, reconciles medications, and communicates any unresolved tests or referrals. They also arrange needed services at home and address barriers to care to prevent gaps that could lead to readmission. While the hospital clinician provides inpatient care and discharge instructions, the ongoing connection to the PCP is primarily managed by the care coordinator.

Coordinating post-discharge follow-up requires a dedicated coordinator who acts as the liaison between the hospital and the primary care physician. The care coordinator or case manager ensures the primary care physician receives a timely discharge summary, schedules the follow-up visit, reconciles medications, and communicates any unresolved tests or referrals. They also arrange needed services at home and address barriers to care to prevent gaps that could lead to readmission. While the hospital clinician provides inpatient care and discharge instructions, the ongoing connection to the PCP is primarily managed by the care coordinator.