10% of patients discharged from hospitals end up being readmitted within 30 days
More than one in 10 patients discharged from the hospital are readmitted within 30 days, according to the most recent data available from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
“For planned hospital admissions, preparation and patient education prior to a scheduled stay can reduce the need to return to the hospital soon after discharge,” says physician Ankit Garg, vice president of medical affairs at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. He offers the following tips.
Before you go to the hospital for a planned procedure
Make a list of the following:
– Important questions, including if you’ll need special equipment, supplies, or supervision once you return home.
– All medications you use, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements.
– Any allergies you have.
– Eliminate tripping hazards in your home so you can move around safely as you recover.
When in the hospital
– Ask questions and make sure you and a family member or caregiver understand the answers.
– Be sure to wash your hands often.
Before you leave the hospital
– Talk to a discharge planner to ensure a smooth transition to your home or other location, and have a family member or caregiver listen in.
– Confirm any new medications prescribed and arrange to pick them up or have them delivered. Review all medications you’ll be taking at home and ask for detailed instructions on when and how to take them, and what to do if you miss a dose.
– Ask about any restrictions concerning diet and physical activity. Be comfortable using any durable medical equipment that will be sent home with you.
– Know who to contact if you have questions or concerns and get their phone numbers for both daytime and after-business hours.
– Make a follow-up appointment with your primary care doctor and/or specialist for seven days after discharge and let them know it is a follow-up appointment to a recent hospital stay. Plan to bring a copy of your discharge instructions and medication list to the visit.
Once you are home from the hospital
– Keep a family member, friend, or caregiver informed about your hospital visit and your overall health status.
– Call your doctor’s office right away if you aren’t feeling well.
– Take all medications as directed.
– Follow all discharge instructions, including instructions about physical activity, diet, and alcohol consumption. Keep your follow-up appointments.
“Your health insurer may offer the support of a case manager who can help with navigating the health care system, or for anyone with complex needs, including those recovering at home after a hospital stay,” says Garg. “To see if this is part of your coverage, call the customer care phone number on your health insurance member ID card.”