Discharge of patients in Wales is hampered by poor communication with practices, according to an inquiry into the issues.

Ward staff do not understand discharge policies and processes – and they also do not understand what information to share with practices, according to the country’s Health Inspectorate.

The findings were welcomed by the Royal College of GPs in Wales.

The report says the quality of discharge in Wales is “variable.” It calls for improved clarity about the role of different health professionals in discharged – and improved communication with patients and families.

It also calls for improved relationships between GPs and hospitals.

The inspectors found that in some cases information is still faxed to GPs – and warns of the risks attached to the use of paper rather than electronic communication.

Dr Martin O’Donnell, RCGP vice-chair in Wales, said: “Patient discharge arrangements are a common source of frustration for patients, and they can be frustrating for GPs as well. When they leave hospitals, patients are not discharged from care, rather their care is transferred back to primary care.

“Good information sharing can ensure patients experience continuity of care even when they’re seeing different healthcare professionals. When a patient leaves hospital GPs need to have the right type of information, particularly around medication and any significant developments during the stay. Often this isn’t the case.

“Information also needs to be transferred in the right way; it shouldn’t be a surprise that electronic discharge delivers improved outcomes. It’s further evidence of the NHS being held back because of a lack of IT and technology.

“The report was also clear that communication between hospitals and general practice needed to improve.”