When You Leave

Discharge

Discharge Planning

Every patient is assessed for discharge planning needs by a nurse case manager. The nurse case manager works closely with you and your family, your physician, primary nurse, and the rest of your healthcare team to develop a safe and therapeutic discharge plan. That discharge plan provides for any continued care needs you may have after you leave the hospital.

Discharge Instructions

Before you leave the hospital, your physician and nurse will give you detailed instructions regarding your continued recovery. You will be told about medications, special diets, activity restrictions, and the need for follow-up care. You will receive an instruction sheet that we will ask you to sign. If there is something you do not fully understand, please ask questions before you leave the hospital. If you have any additional questions or concerns regarding your discharge plan after you leave the hospital, contact your physician directly, or your continuing care nurse.

Going Home

When your doctor feels that you are ready to leave the hospital, he or she will authorize a discharge from the hospital. Discharges usually begin around 11 a.m. but can vary.

Here are few tips to make the discharge process run smoothly:

• Be sure you and/or your caregiver have spoken with a discharge planner and that you understand what services you may need after leaving the hospital.
• Verify your discharge date and time with your nurse or doctor.
• Have someone available to pick you up.
• Collect any belongings we may have held for you in our safe.
• Check your room, bathroom and bedside table carefully for any personal items.
• Make sure you and/or your caregiver has all necessary paperwork for billing, referrals, and prescriptions.

Home Healthcare

Your physician may decide that you need follow-up care at home. If so, your doctor may refer you to home care program and services may include nursing care, personal care by a home health aide, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, or medical social services, as well as arrangements for needed medical supplies and equipment. Services may be covered by Medicare, Medicaid or paid privately by the individual. Patients always have the right to select the agency of their choice and St. Elizabeth’s can provide a comprehensive list of other home care services located within your community. Please speak to your physician or discharge nurse case manager for a list of agencies.

Information About Your Hospital Bill

If you have any questions regarding your bill after discharge, please call 800.664.9224. Any portion of your bill not covered by insurance can be paid by check, money order, cash or credit card.

Pay your bill online

Patient Satisfaction Survey

Shortly after you leave the hospital, you may be randomly selected to receive a confidential patient satisfaction survey about your hospital stay. Please take a few minutes to let us know about your experience by completing and returning the survey. Your ratings and comments are important to help us improve care.