Describe follow-up in transitional care.

• A. Discharge planning does not include a primary care follow-up.
• B. Scheduled and completed follow-up visit with the PCP or specialist physician, and patient is empowered to be active participant in these interactions.
• C. Follow-up is optional and may be delayed.
• D. No follow-up is needed after discharge.

Answer: (B)

Follow-up in transitional care means ensuring ongoing, coordinated care after discharge. This involves scheduling a timely visit with the primary care physician or a specialist, so the care plan is reviewed, medications are reconciled, symptoms are monitored, and any test results are acted on. The patient should be empowered to participate actively in these interactions—asking questions, understanding any changes in treatment, and adhering to the plan. This structured follow-up helps maintain continuity, reduces confusion after leaving the hospital, and lowers the chance of preventable complications or readmission. Options that suggest follow-up isn’t needed, is optional, or isn’t part of discharge planning don’t align with the goal of a seamless transition, making the scheduled, completed follow-up with active patient participation the correct approach.