In an era of evolving change, health care
organizations are being challenged to provide consistent care according to defined standards, while ensuring compliance with legislated
regulations. Identifying outcomes and focusing on critical thinking skills in order to deliver more qualitative, quantitative and ethically precise care to effectively develop a plan for hospital discharge and continuity of care are part of a discharge planners daily routine.

The Discharge Planner's position continues to evolve to meet the needs of the organization in which they are employed. Utilization management tools and the emphasis on community partnerships are driving forces in this new expanded role. Discharge Planner's titles are varied but the task remains consistent between organizations.

The mandate of the Association of Discharge Planning Coordinators of Ontario (ADPCO) in conjunction with the Canadian Association of Discharge Planning and Continuity of Care (CADPAC) includes the development of guidelines and standards for practice and the establishment of educational opportunities for its members. Guidelines and Standards for Discharge Planning were developed in 1990, revised in 1995 and redefined in 2001.

Discharge Planning is an integral component of the acute care sector that we work in. By working together and exchanging information along the way, it is expected that these standards and guidelines will serve to set the benchmark of quality discharge planning practice within our organizations.