Discharge
Discharge Planning
Every patient is assessed for discharge planning needs by a case manager/coordinator. The case manager/coordinator may be a nurse or a social worker who will work closely with you and your family or representative, your physician, primary nurse, the rest of your health care team and your insurance, 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/or 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 be given an appointment date and time for a follow-up visit with your PCP and/or specialist, which should be within 3-5 days after your discharge. You will receive an instruction sheet that we will ask you to sign. You should review your discharge paperwork to ensure you fully understand the instructions, which will be created specifically to address your condition and ongoing needs. Any questions about the discharge instructions can be answered by your care team prior to your leaving the hospital.
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 are usually between 9a.m. and 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 case manager, who may be a social worker or a nurse case coordinator, 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 Health Care
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, 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 Morton Hospital can provide a comprehensive list of other home care services located within your community. Please speak to your case manager for a list of agencies.
Financial Information about Your Hospital Bill
If you have any questions regarding your bill after discharge, please call the Steward Health Care Business Office at 877-228-3873. Any portion of your bill not covered by insurance can be paid by check, money order, cash, or credit card.
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.