Don’t Leave Until…
Things to know before you walk out that hospital door
When it’s time to be released from the hospital, your physician will authorize a hospital discharge. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you are completely well—it only means that you no longer need hospital services. If you disagree, you or your caregiver can appeal the decision.
On the other hand, you may be pleased to learn that your doctor has approved your discharge. But before you can leave the hospital, there are several things that you or your caregiver must attend to.
The first step is to know who will be involved in your discharge process. This starts with the hospital’s discharge planner, who may be a nurse, social worker or administrator, or may have some other title. You and your caregiver may request to meet this person relatively early in your hospital stay.
Your physician and nurse will give you discharge instructions and answer any questions you have about managing your treatment and medications once you are home. If you are confused or unsure about what you need to do, what medications you must take or if you have to restrict your diet or activities, don’t be afraid to ask and take notes. Be sure you understand any instructions you have been given before you leave the hospital.
If You Disagree
You or your support person can appeal your doctor’s discharge decision. If you are a Medicare patient and were inpatient status, be sure you are given “An Important Message from Medicare” from the hospital’s discharge planner or caseworker. This details your rights to remain in the hospital for care and provides information on whom to contact to appeal a discharge decision.
Care Coordination
If you need home health, medical equipment or other follow-up appointments after discharge, you will be seen by a care coordinator while an inpatient to assist you and your family in obtaining them. It is your right to choose which company you want to provide these, but if your insurance or managed care plan has preferred providers and you do not choose one of these, you may have to pay more out of your own pocket. Contact your nurse or therapist if you need more information.
Bedside Prescription
Delivery
As a service to our patients, Beaufort Memorial has partnered with Publix Pharmacy to offer free bedside delivery of prescriptions and over-the-counter medications prior to discharge. The delivery service is available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Let your nurse know if you are interested in having Publix fill your prescriptions before you leave the hospital. Have your prescription card and co-pay ready to pay for your medications at the time of delivery. Cash, credit and debit (including FSA) are accepted.