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Because your voice matters.

Can We Prevent Drug Overdose And Death After ‘Against Medical Advice’ (AMA) Discharge?

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Open to Provincial Region

Last updated

Opportunity Purpose
Before medically advised (BMA) or ‘against medical advice’ (AMA) discharge is when patients discharge themselves from hospital despite needing ongoing hospital care. This is common among many medically vulnerable patients. The risk of emergency department visits, drug overdoses or death are very high in the days after BMA discharge. Our study will examine if clinical services (e.g., follow-up specialist appointments) can prevent these harms.

Background
A brief project outline will be emailed a few days before the meeting. This will include study goals, methods, results, limitations and potential clinical interventions. Reviewing this document will help you understand our project better, and perhaps help brainstorm ideas that can be feasibly implemented within our health care system.

Health Areas
Other General Health , Health Services and Policy, Primary Health Care, Public Health, Other Men’s Health, Other Older Adults, Alcohol, Opioids, Marijuana, Prescription Drug Use, Other Substance Use, Other Women’s Health, Emergency Medicine

Details
We are seeking input on study findings from an Advisory Group of 3-5 patients who either have personal experience with BMA discharge, or have closely supported a loved one through it. We will meet up to 4 times a year virtually (eg. Zoom) over a period of 4 years. Broadly, we will discuss our study goals and findings, and hope together we can brainstorm some effective real-life solutions that can be implemented within our healthcare system. Each meeting will be 1-2 hours, and your contribution will be compensated via e-giftcard/cheque. You can join one or all meetings over the 4 years; no obligation to commit now to the full study interval. More details provided by email, if interested.

Additional eligibility criteria
• Experience with BMA/AMA discharge from hospital, either personally or through a close family member or friend.
• Ability to read and understand English.
• Willing to attend meetings virtually.
• Willing & comfortable to share health care experiences in a group setting.
• An interest in improving health care services and helping researchers.

Location
Vancouver Island / Coast, Lower Mainland, Thompson – Okanagan, Kootenay, Cariboo, North Coast and Nechako, Northeast

Eligibility
Age: 18 Years – 100 Years Old

If interested, please email us for more info (at mayesha.khan@ubc.ca).

From Our Community

Laura Klein

Clinical Practice Consultant in Fraser Health

Laura Klein

Seeking the patient perspective doesn’t have to be complicated; it simply entails a commitment to ask and listen. Patient advisors not only bring a valuable perspective but also share original ideas and unique skills. Including the patient and family perspective changes the conversation and aligns the team’s focus towards common goals.