Abstract 

Background:  Effective discharge planning is critical for ensuring continuity of care, yet significant implementation gaps persist in the Philippines from the perspective of primary recipients (patients and caregivers). This study aimed to evaluate their needs and experiences to identify key areas for improvement.

Methods: An explanatory-sequential mixed-methods design was employed. First, a quantitative survey assessed the needs of 454 primary recipients in the Philippines. Subsequently, in-depth phenomenological interviews with 13 purposively selected participants provided deeper explanations for the quantitative findings.

Results: A universal 'Great Need' was identified across all discharge planning domains. The highest-ranked needs were (1) Medication Management, (2) Understanding the Treatment Plan, and (3) Emergency Preparedness. Qualitative themes explained these gaps, highlighting systemic Barriers to Effective Post-Discharge Management and a Superficial Understanding of the process. These experiences contrasted sharply with the ideal of an Empowered and Supported Recovery, revealing inconsistent practices.

Conclusions: Discharge planning in the Philippines is fragmented, reflecting a systemic failure to prepare patients and caregivers for home transition, undermining continuity of care. Strengthening communication, standardizing patient-centered protocols, and actively engaging primary recipients from admission are essential to bridge the gap between policy and patient readiness, ensuring a safe recovery