RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Redesigning care to support earlier discharge from a neonatal intensive care unit: a design thinking informed pilot JF BMJ Open Quality JO BMJ Open Qual FD British Medical Journal Publishing Group SP e001736 DO 10.1136/bmjoq-2021-001736 VO 11 IS 2 A1 Shoshana H Bardach A1 Amanda N Perry A1 Nirav S Kapadia A1 Kathryn E Richards A1 Laura K Cogswell A1 Tyler K Hartman YR 2022 UL http://bmjopenquality.bmj.com/content/11/2/e001736.abstract AB Background Preterm infants may remain in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) to receive proper nutrition via nasogastric tube feedings. However, prolonged NICU stays can have negative effects for the patient, the family and the health system.Aim To demonstrate how a patient-centred, design thinking informed approach supported the development of a pilot programme to enable earlier discharge of preterm babies.Method We report on our design thinking-empathy building approach to programme design, initial outcomes and considerations for ongoing study.Results Through the use of design thinking methods, we identified unique needs, preferences and concerns that guided the development of our novel early discharge programme. We found that stable, preterm infants unable to feed by mouth and requiring nasogastric tubes can be cared for at home with remote patient monitoring and telehealth support. In addition, novel feeding strategies can help address parental preferences without compromising infant growth.Conclusion A patient-centred, design thinking informed approach supported the development of a pilot programme to enable earlier discharge of preterm babies. The programme resulted in a reduced length of stay, thereby increasing NICU bed capacity and limiting hospital turn-aways.Data are available on reasonable request.