February 18, 2026A new 7-day flow initiative is being introduced across General Medicine to support safe, timely discharges over the weekend.
Many patients who are clinically ready to return home over the weekend do so successfully. However, for some patients, discharge is more complex and relies on coordinated input from multiple teams — including pharmacy, allied health, nursing and medical staff. When key decision-makers or supports are less available over weekends, even small delays can compound and result in discharge being deferred until early the following week.
Recognising this challenge, Northern Health’s General Medicine division has developed a strengthened weekend model to better support progression of care across all seven days.
As part of this initiative, weekend resourcing will be enhanced through:
-
Flow Navigation support to proactively identify patients suitable for weekend discharge, coordinate outstanding requirements and escalate barriers early
-
Dedicated senior medical registrar cover to enable timely clinical decision-making and discharge approval
-
Additional pharmacy support to prioritise discharge medications and medication reconciliation
A key focus will be early identification of suitable patients on Thursdays and Fridays, clear communication within teams, and active coordination to ensure equipment, documentation, medications and community supports are in place ahead of the weekend.
James Walker, Northern Health physiotherapist and incoming Weekend Flow Navigator, said the initiative is about improving systems rather than rushing care.
“This program is not about discharging patients sooner than is safe. It’s about ensuring that patients who are already ready to leave hospital are not delayed due to system limitations that can occur over weekends.”
Anu Shrestha, senior medical registrar supporting the additional weekend resourcing, said he is looking forward to contributing to a more consistent model of care.
“I’m looking forward to contributing to an improved seven-day service, ensuring our patients receive efficient and safe care and can return to the comfort of their home as soon as possible.”
By strengthening discharge momentum across all seven days, the initiative aims to enhance patient experience, reduce avoidable delays and improve flow across the hospital.
The additional weekend resourcing will commence from 28 February.
Pictured in featured image: James Walker, incoming Weekend Flow Navigator, farewelling patient Sharon, who is happy to be heading home.
