For Health Care Providers

Research shows that patients who are seen by their health care provider within seven days of discharge from a hospital are at less risk of being readmitted to the hospital. (With some conditions, appointments may need to be even sooner.)

For family caregivers, making this appointment happen can be a challenge. Family caregivers are often juggling uncertainty regarding discharge dates, the illness of the patient, communicating with the hospital staff and transportation, as well as their own daily responsibilities, including jobs and children or other care recipients.This guide offers ideas for the family caregiver, preferably before the patient is discharged from the hospital.

Getting a Post-Discharge Appointment Within 7 Days