Rehab Center Discharge Checklist

Rehab Center Physical TherapyRehab stays can be short term or longer, but generally last 3 weeks as that is what Medicare covers. Rehab stays generally get people “home ready” but perhaps not fully recuperated. This is true following a surgery or illness. You will likely receive Nursing, Physical and Occupational Therapist visits through Medicare Home Services when you return to your residence. You may also wish to hire a caregiver for a short time to help with transportation, cooking, shopping, laundry and any personal care till you are fully back on your feet. Following Medicare home health under Medicare A, you may wish to return to your Rehab center for more therapy on an outpatient basis via Medicare B.

Many people who were in the hospital and Rehab center for many weeks, though anxious to get home, also say they feel some anxiety about going home. This is natural as they have been in a protective environment with staff around and meals prepared for them, returning home, especially if the person lives alone can be frightening

Research shows that making a follow up appointment with your primary doctor within a week of discharge and reviewing all medications and discharge orders can lead to fewer preventable re-hospitalizations. Medications can change either some added, discontinued or change in dosage. Medication errors can be serious so it is beneficial to speak with your pharmacist and primary physician if you have changes in your prescriptions.

 For the best outcome and avoiding preventable re-hospitalizations:

  1. Know how you are getting home, family or a service.
  2. Review the Discharge Plan and make sure you understand it.
  3. Social Worker will discuss Medicare & Medical Equipment with you.
  4. Call in new prescriptions to your pharmacy, to be picked up or delivered home.
  5. Make an appointment with your primary doctor for your 1stweek home.
  6. Review your new medications with the ones at home.
  7. Take all your medications with you to the doctor.
  8. If you live alone or are a primary caregiver, consider getting an emergency button system.
  9. Do a Home Safety check around your home to prevent falling or tripping.
  10. Take it easy, you’ve been away a few weeks, let your body adjust.
  11. Follow your diet, exercise and medication plan.

 Get on with your life!