Patients and carers contributed to the design of this qualitative study through consultation with a consumer advisory group, where potential transitional care interventions were discussed. These discussions highlighted a need to further explore transitional care unmet needs, informing the development of this interview study with patients and carers. Participants' perspectives were central to the analysis and interpretation of findings. Participants received a simple one-page summary of the findings, along with contact details for the research team to enable further comment or feedback.