A discharge summary is a document created by healthcare providers when a patient leaves a hospital or medical facility. It includes important information about the patient's diagnosis, treatment received, and any follow-up care needed. This summary helps ensure continuity of care by providing essential details to the patient's primary care provider or specialists. The discharge summary typically contains sections such as patient demographics, admission details, clinical findings, and medications prescribed. It serves as a vital communication tool, allowing healthcare professionals to understand the patient's condition and treatment history, which is crucial for ongoing care and recovery.