When Leaving the Hospital---Don't Forget the Doctor's Order for Home Health!!

If there's one bit of information I'd pass along to seniors and people living with disabilities is ALWAYS ALWAYS ask for a doctor's order for home health services!!! when leaving the hospital. That at least opens the discussion. If you haven't seen the doctor, have the nurse put a note in your chart (or your loved one's chart) DO NOT DISCHARGE WITHOUT MD ORDER FOR HOME HEALTH AGENCY SERVICES. Whether you need services at home for a short time or for the long-term, home health agencies can help you and educate you on how to set up services that help with activities of daily living--showering, eating, toileting, etc. or nursing services or nutrition education or social work. Even if it's only for a short time and even if you have to pay, it's worth it! You can then figure out what you are dealing with, what insurance will cover and how long you'll need help. Too many discharges from hospitals happen at 4:00 on Friday afternoon in a rush without time to absorb information about your conditions are all about, how long they are likely tol last, and what assistance might help and what to do in an emergency. Ask for the information you need!! Don't go home without a doctor's written order for home health! Or at least consider home health alternative or assisted living alternative to a nursing facility. You have a right to make an informed decision.