The discharge lounge service at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB) supports a safe, efficient, and patient‑centred end to a hospital stay. Its purpose is to provide a dedicated, comfortable space for patients who are medically fit for discharge to wait for:
- transport (hospital transport or taxi)
- completion of take‑home medication
- final discharge paperwork and checks
- collection by relatives or carers
Using the discharge lounge helps improve patient flow by freeing inpatient beds earlier in the day, allowing wards to admit new patients more efficiently.
Across all UHB sites, patients using the discharge lounge can expect:
- a calm, safe, and supported environment
- staff who coordinate medication, paperwork, and transport
- hot and cold refreshments
- assistance with mobility and comfort
Each hospital site operates its own lounge, with specific opening times and facilities.
Our discharge lounges
Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham (QEHB)
The discharge lounge is located on second floor of the Heritage Building (opposite Bournville Ward, next to the link bridge).
The discharge lounge is open seven days a week, between the hours 07:00 - 19:30.
How the QEHB lounge works
- Ward staff inform patients when they will be transferred to the lounge
- Relatives/carers collect patients from the Discharge Lounge, not the ward
- Staff check medication and paperwork before discharge
- Transport is arranged for eligible patients; taxis can be booked if needed
- Hot and cold refreshments are provided
Birmingham Heartlands Hospital (BHH)
The discharge lounge is located in the main corridor, opposite the Ruth Astle Centre.
The discharge lounge is open seven days a week, between the hours 08:00 - 20:00.
How the BHH lounge works
- Provides a welcoming, relaxed environment for patients awaiting collection or transport
- Staff assist with paperwork, medication, and travel arrangements
- Refreshments available throughout the day
- Light entertainment provided to maintain a calm atmosphere
Good Hope Hospital (GHH)
The discharge lounge is located on the first floor, Richard Salt Unit.
The discharge lounge is open Monday to Friday, between the hours 08:00 - 20:00.
How the GHH Lounge works
- Ward staff notify patients in advance that they will transfer to the lounge
- Relatives/carers collect patients from the Discharge Lounge, not the ward
- Medications and discharge paperwork are confirmed as completed before the patient leaves
- Transport is booked for eligible patients; taxis arranged if required.
- Hot and cold refreshments are provided
- Light entertainment is available in the seated area
Solihull Hospital
The discharge lounge is located on Bay A, Ward 18 (Elmdon).
The discharge lounge is open seven days a week, between the hours 09:00 - 00:00.
How the Solihull lounge works
- Patients are informed the day before or on the day of discharge
- Families/carers are advised to collect patients from the lounge rather than the ward
- Staff ensure patients have all medication and paperwork before leaving
- Eligible patients have hospital transport arranged; taxis can be booked if preferred
- Refreshments include:
- tea
- coffee
- fresh fruit
- cake
- hot meals
Last reviewed: 12 February 2026