Your physician will determine when you are ready to be discharged from the hospital. He or she will write your discharge order and, along with other members of your patient care team, will provide detailed instructions about continuing care and recovery at home.
The time to start thinking about planning for your discharge needs is when-and in some cases, before-you are admitted to the hospital. Speak with your nurse or patient care coordinator if you have concerns about returning to your living situation without additional assistance.
Your nurse or patient care coordinator can help you:
Our goal is to discharge patients before 11 am, although sometimes delays are unavoidable. Your physician or nurse will inform you of your discharge time.
Your doctor or nurse will give you detailed instructions about your post-hospital care. You will receive written discharge instructions. We can provide your discharge instructions in languages other than English; just ask.
If you do not understand your instructions or have questions about your diet, medication or activities, speak up and ask questions. If you still have questions once you are home, you can call the nursing station on your unit to speak with a member of your patient care team.
The hospital does not provide discharge transportation. It's best to have someone available to drive you home after you are discharged from the hospital. You should coordinate with a family member, loved one or caregiver and your nurse to arrange a ride home.
If you are being discharged after an outpatient procedure, you will not be allowed to drive yourself home and should make transportation arrangements ahead of time.
In most cases, your physician will prescribe one or more medications for you to take or use at home. You should fill these prescriptions promptly after leaving the hospital and follow your physician's instructions closely.
Prescription Assistance Program
After discharge, some patients are eligible for prescription discounts -- regardless of health insurance or pharmacy benefits.
