What is meant by "transition of care" in outpatient healthcare?

"Transition of care" in outpatient healthcare refers to the transfer of a patient’s care between providers or settings. This process is crucial for ensuring continuity and coordination of care as patients move from one healthcare environment to another, such as from a hospital to a rehabilitation center or from a specialist back to their primary care physician. Proper transitions of care facilitate better health outcomes, as they allow for effective communication of the patient’s medical history, treatment plan, and any ongoing needs.

This concept emphasizes the importance of keeping patients informed and engaged, thereby ensuring that they understand their medications, follow-up appointments, and any changes in their treatment regimen. By focusing on continuity, it minimizes the risk of medication errors, fragmented care, or lapses in treatment that might occur when patients transition between various levels of care or different healthcare professionals.