Early supported discharge (ESD) for stroke

The aim of the Stroke Early Supported Discharge (ESD) service is to enable patients to return home from hospital as soon as possible, whilst continuing to receive ongoing specialist support and rehabilitation in their home. These services are provided by a multi-disciplinary team which includes Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, a Speech and Language Therapist, a Stroke Specialist Nurse and Therapy Assistants. Patients are only discharged home from the ward once they are medically ready and have the appropriate equipment and support in place.

Patients are referred to this service if they are currently an inpatient as a result of a recent stroke. Research has shown that ESD services can result in better outcomes for patients with mild to moderate disability as a result of their stroke. The multi-disciplinary team will have discussed this with the patient, their family and/or carers and agreed it is the best way forward for their recovery.

The ESD team work with the patient for a period of up to 6 weeks and will plan and implement treatment based on specialist assessment and goals that are important to the patient. After this period, if the patient requires further support, they will be referred on to the appropriate community or outpatient service.