What is Discharge?

Discharge is the formal process of releasing a patient from a mental health or substance abuse treatment program. It marks the end of an individual’s stay or participation in an inpatient, outpatient, or residential treatment setting. The decision to discharge can be based on completion of the program, the achievement of treatment goals, or other factors such as patient choice or medical necessity.

In addiction and mental health contexts, discharge planning is a critical component of ensuring continuity of care. This includes providing referrals to follow-up services, arranging outpatient therapy, connecting patients with support groups, and educating families about relapse prevention strategies. Effective discharge planning helps reduce the risk of relapse and supports long-term recovery.

Discharges can be categorized as planned or unplanned. A planned discharge occurs when treatment goals have been met and a structured transition is in place. Unplanned discharges, such as those against medical advice (AMA), can occur when patients leave before treatment completion, which may increase the risk of relapse or complications.

Proper documentation of discharge, including the reason and the patient’s condition at the time of release, is essential for legal and medical continuity. Discharge summaries typically include a summary of the treatment provided, progress made, and recommendations for ongoing care.