Efforts are underway to free up beds at Noble's Hospital.
A new discharge lounge has been created in the foyer which will provide an area for patients to wait on the day they're discharged.
It will be staffed by a registered nurse and healthcare assistants – with a TV, magazines, refreshments and light meals available.
The Department of Health and Social Care says it will help prevent bottlenecks elsewhere in the hospital.
Director of Hospitals Mike Quinn says: "This initiative offers benefits all round.
"Experience in the UK demonstrates that a proactive system of discharge is central to reducing waits in emergency departments and improving patient flow.
"In future medical patients who arrive at A&E, or are referred to Noble’s by their GP, can be moved from the Acute Admissions Unit onto medical wards with minimal delay.
"At the same time those ready to go home, who no longer need a bed, can transfer to the discharge lounge which will be a convenient pick-up point for patients’ families and our Patient Transfer services."
Patient Flow Manager Amanda Mills says: "We aim to provide a safe, calming environment for patients who are fit for discharge from acute hospital care, away from the hustle and bustle of a busy ward. Staff will offer a friendly welcome, company and reassurance for patients.
"Improving patient flow through the hospital is about having patients in the right place at the right time, and ensuring they feel safe and cared for, whether at the start of their journey through the hospital or as they leave us to go home."
