What is a discharge plan?

Hi, I'm Marcus. I'm a patient educator.

What is a discharge plan?

A discharge conversation is a talk with your care team before you leave the hospital. This discussion helps transfer information so your move home is safer and your care continues smoothly. It covers next steps like medicines, appointments, and how to manage at home. You are meant to be a partner in creating this plan.

During the talk, someone on the team reviews your medicines and discusses any recent test results with you. They also talk about your home situation to make sure the plan is practical for you. This is an opportunity to share concerns you or your family might have about leaving the hospital.

You receive information about your care and what to expect after leaving. This may include details about your medicines, follow-up appointments, and contact information for your care team. You can use this information to help keep track of your care and share it with those who help you.

The team will check that you understand the plan and answer your questions. This helps make sure you have the information you need for your care after leaving. It is also a way to clear up any parts of the plan that seem confusing.

Discharge planning is the time to ask your questions about going home. You can ask about anything that is unclear or about whom to contact if you have questions after you leave.

Call the hospital if you have questions about your visit or your care. This is general information, not personal instructions. Your own care team can tell you what applies to you.

Thanks for watching.