Discharge Coordinator captures hearts at NHS England event

On July 31, 2024, NHS England North East and Yorkshire hosted an online discharge event specifically designed for professionals involved in the acute hospital discharge processes.

The virtual workshop featured contributions from clinical leads and operational colleagues, addressing the critical issues surrounding delayed discharges. The focus was on ensuring safe and effective discharge practices, sharing valuable insights, and discussing the impact of delays on patient care.

A highlight of the event was the participation of Catherine Huby, who shared her experiences from a visit to the Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trusts.During her visit, Catherine engaged with the discharge team and the Integrated Transfer of Care Hub.

Catherine was particularly impressed by Jodie Askin, the Discharge Coordinator at Pinderfields Hospital. Jodie's commitment to prioritising patient welfare resonated deeply and Jodie's was invited to share her expereince with all attendees via a sit-down interview.

This can be viewed on below:

Now the event is over, we want to continue to celebrate Jodie and help you understand the vital role a discharge coordinators plays in the safe transition of a patient from hospital, to the next stage of their recovery or care.

Meet Jodie...

Hello, my name is Jodie Askin, Discharge Coordinator at Pinderfields Hospital.

Can you give us an overview of your current job?

I support with the discharge planning for our patients within the Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust. I work closely with colleagues within the trust and the community, ensuring plans are in place/followed through for when our patients are Medically Optimised for Discharge.

Please tell us about how you got here?

I started my journey within the NHS as a Domestic Assistant around six years ago. I was Domestic for around five years and have been in this role for one year.

Having a chat with patients was my favourite thing to do whilst I was cleaning their rooms, and it's still my favourite thing to do now.

I always knew I wanted to progress my career within the NHS so when I saw the post for discharge Coordinator advertised, I knew I had to apply.

How has your role developed since you started your career?

I am now part of the MDT (multi-disciplinary teams), based at Pinderfields and Dewsbury Hospital. I support with discharge planning for our patients, ensuring that plans have been put in place and are followed through right up until the moment of discharge.

When I initially started as domestic assistant, I was patient facing, but I was not directly involved in patient care, now I feel I am.

What are the best bits about your role?

Knowing I am supporting with ensuring patients are safe when leaving hospital makes me very proud.

I get to speak to patients and offer the reassurance that is sometimes needed when it comes to discharge planning, as sometimes this can be even scarier than being in hospital.

What would be your next steps for career progression?

I plan on progressing my career by engaging in as much training as I can so I can develop my skills and knowledge. Who knows where that may lead in the future!

What advice would you give to someone wanting to do a similar role?

I would say go for it and believe in yourself. Be empathetic to people and their needs - every day is different, and every situation is different. I wish I had applied for this role sooner!

For more details on pursuing a career with Mid Yorkshire, visit our career page: Work for us