Discharge planning at the state hospitals
Discharge planning for people entering the state hospitals begins at admission. Patients meet regularly with their treatment team, which includes their assigned social worker. Social workers gather information that will assist in discharge planning, focusing on many important aspects of community living. The three primary areas of focus are housing, finances, and aftercare needs.
Family members play an important role in discharge planning. With patient consent, social workers will reach out to identified primary family contacts to discuss discharge-related resources and needs. The goal is to discharge patients back to an integrated community setting of their choosing, so they can participate in their community in meaningful ways.
How to participate in discharge planning:
Family members are encouraged to participate in the discharge planning process and are encouraged to discuss this with their loved ones at the hospital. Family members can also call the main hospital number (509-565-4000 for Eastern State Hospital and 253-582-8900 for Western State Hospital) and ask for the social work department. From there, family members can get connected to their loved one’s assigned social worker to begin this process.