Planning for Future Needs

• Housing preferences • Healthcare needs • Daily assistance requirements • Financial considerations • Long-term care goals

Having these conversations early allows your family to better understand and honor your wishes if they are called upon to make decisions in the future. Hospitalization and Discharge Planning Preparing for a hospital stay before an emergency occurs can make the transition home or to a rehabilitation setting safer and less stressful. Every patient admitted to the hospital is assigned to a multidisciplinary care team that may include physicians, nurses, case managers, social workers, therapists, and discharge planners. Together, they develop a discharge plan based on the patient's medical condition, functional abilities, and ongoing care needs. Depending on your recovery, discharge recommendations may include: • Returning home independently • Home care or companion services • Home health services, including nursing and rehabilitation therapies • Inpatient rehabilitation • A skilled nursing facility • Another appropriate level of post-acute care Understanding your options and asking questions throughout your hospitalization can help ensure a smoother recovery.

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