Mental Health Care Professionals' Experiences With the Discharge Planning Process and Transitioning Patients Attending Outpatient Clinics Into Community Care

Background: Health care reform promotes delivery of mental health care in the community. Outpatient mental healthcare professionals (HCPs) are pressured to discharge patients. This study's purpose: to understand the experience and perceptions of mental HCPs with discharge planning and transitioning patients into community care. Methods: Twelve HCPs participated in semi-structured qualitative interviews. Findings: Three main categories: engaging in the discharge planning process, making the transition smooth, and guiding values emerged. A conceptual framework was created to explain the phenomenon. Conclusion: HCPs valued strengthening partnerships and building relationships to ensure smooth transition. Sufficient resources and trust imperative for safe patient discharge.