Discharge Planning
The Discharge Planning process often begins shortly after you enter the hospital with an initial assessment of your previous level of functioning, home setup, and social supports. This assessment is referred to as a psychosocial assessment and helps inform the Hospital’s interdisciplinary team about your specific care needs.
With your needs in the mind, the hospital team will meet with you and your decision makers to discuss the next transition and to create a Discharge Plan. This process is designed to support you and answer key questions such as:
When a discharge date and destination are determined, the interdisciplinary team will complete any appropriate referrals such as to Home and Community Care (formerly known as the Community Care Access Centre). The team can provide information to assist you and your family to arrange for other necessary equipment and support.
When you are preparing to go home from hospital, some pertinent questions to ask include:
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What treatment you received
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Whether you will have to pick up a prescription before you go home
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What medicine you must take, how to take it, and any side effects
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What symptoms to watch for and who to call if something does not feel right
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What foods you should eat and not eat
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When you can go back to normal activities, such as work, school, exercise, and driving
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What follow-up appointments you will need and who will make them
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What home care support do you need, when it will start, and who to contact
Discharge transportation costs are the patient’s responsibility. The interdisciplinary team can suggest transportation options as required.