Having to stay in the hospital is probably not your idea of a good time. And when you’re discharged, chances are you don’t want to return. It’s nice to have skilled, compassionate care you can depend on when you need it. But staying healthy–and avoiding a return trip to the hospital–is everyone’s preference, and it’s what we want for you too.

Unfortunately, a significant percentage of people discharged from hospitals nationwide are readmitted within 30 days,which is why reducing readmission rates is always a goal for the team at GRMC. But it’s not a goal we can reach by ourselves- we need your help to achieve it.

When you leave the hospital, we’ll strive to make it a smooth transition. We ask that you help us by doing the following:

1.) Make sure you understand your condition. Ask your hospital team:

• What you should do to help yourself get better.
• What–if any–limitations you now have during recovery.
• What potential problems you should watch for.
• What to do if problems occur.

If you’ll be handling certain medical tasks on your own or with the help of a family caregiver–things like changing a dressing, for instance–ask a member of the hospital staff to go over the procedure with you until you’re comfortable with the process.

2.) Review your medications. Ask if you should continue taking everything you were taking before you were admitted and if any new medications have been prescribed. If you do need to take some new ones, be sure you know when and how to take them, how much to take, and for how long. Also be sure you understand why you’re taking the new medicines.

It’s a good idea to keep a list of all your medications. That list–or other tools ranging from simple pillboxes to more high-tech gadgets–can help ensure you take your medicines correctly.

3.) Keep your medical appointments. Often follow-up tests or doctor visits are scheduled before you leave the
hospital. It’s essential that you keep them. They’re necessary for monitoring your progress and keeping you well.

4.) Speak up if you think you need help. Can you bathe and dress yourself and cook your meals? If you have concerns about your ability to handle these and other tasks, don’t hesitate to say so. We can arrange to get you some help.
If you’re worried about things like paying for your medications or getting transportation to your doctor visits, mention that as well.

5.) Find out what you need to do if you have questions. You may have questions or concerns after leaving the hospital. Be sure you’re clear
about whom to call for answers if you develop any troubling symptoms or have issues with medications.