How to Avoid a Return Trip to the Hospital

You’re ready to go home from the hospital, but do you know how to manage your recovery after you’re discharged? One in five patients with Medicare who are discharged from a hospital are rehospitalized within 30 days, for reasons they could have prevented themselves. Planning ahead and asking a few questions can avoid an unnecessary return to the hospital—and make sure you’re able to recover at home.

1. Plan in advance for going home

If you have any concerns about managing at home, tell the hospital staff before it’s time to leave. The day you’re discharged will be busy, and you might forget to ask important questions. Before you’re discharged, you should:

• Ask your care team to put the information you need in writing, including instructions for wound care, medications and dietary restrictions.
• Know who to call with questions or problems.
• If needed, speak with your doctor about home health agency care. CarePartners of Connecticut members pay $0 for Medicare-covered home health services. (Out of network, Access PPO members pay 30% coinsurance after the deductible for Medicare-covered home health care services).*
• Have the names and phone numbers for any home care services you need.
• Know what exercises might be helpful and which activities to avoid.
• Identify a family member or friend who can be a part of your recovery after discharge. Your family member or friend can help you remember things about symptoms, problems, or questions you want to ask, pick up medications, or take you to appointments. 

2. Understand your medications when you leave

Before you leave the hospital, a list of your medications should be provided to you. If you’re not given list of your medications, ask for one. This list should tell you:

• The generic and brand names of the medication.
• Why you’re taking it.
• How much should you take, and any special instructions, like “with food,” “every 12 hours,” etc.
• Potential side effects to watch out for.

3. See your doctor 5-7 days after leaving the hospital

It’s very important to see your doctor for a follow-up appointment 5-7 days after leaving the hospital so your doctor can make sure your recovery is going well. Bring your list of medications to your appointment and discuss them with your doctor. Make sure your doctor agrees with any new medications or changes made in your existing medications.

Ask your doctor if this appointment should be in person or if a virtual appointment using telehealth is recommended. Telehealth (or telemedicine as it is also known) makes it possible to have appointments over the internet, by phone, email, or other digital media. Many providers offer telehealth services, so ask your doctor if it’s appropriate for a follow-up appointment.

4. Consider working with our Care Management Team

The CarePartners of Connecticut Care Management Team can help you transition to your home after a hospital stay. There is no cost to plan members to work with the team. We can help secure care at home if you need it, make follow-up appointments with your doctor, and provide other helpful resources.

To learn more about working with a Care Manager, call Member Services at 1-888-341-1507 (HMO) or 1-866-632-0060 (PPO) (TTY: 711).

5. Take advantage of Extra discounts that can make the transition home easier

CarePartners of Connecticut plan members can use their Extra discounts to save on prescription delivery, meal delivery services, and more. You can view all the offers available to you on Discounts & Extras**.

^{*Prior to receiving home health services, a doctor must certify that you need home health services and will order home health services to be provided by a home health agency.
**Discounts and services included in the Extras program are not plan benefits and are not subject to the Medicare appeals process.}