Discharge

As you recover, the next step is usually continuing your recovery at home. Our team will keep you informed about your expected discharge time so you and your loved ones can plan ahead. 

If you think you might have any difficulties returning to your usual home - for example, needing extra support, equipment or care - please let a staff member know as soon as possible. You can also ask to speak with our care coordinators. 

We’re here to help make your transition to home as safe and smooth as possible.

 

Before you leave - your discharge planning checklist 

During your stay, it’s important to start thinking about what you’ll need when you go home. Please speak with your nurse, doctor or care team about the following: 

• Living arrangements: Let us know about your home setup and whether you’ll have someone to help you. 
• Recovery expectations: Ask how long your recovery might take and what activities you may need to avoid. 
• Support needs: Talk to us if you may need extra support at home, in a rehab setting or aged care facility. 
• Equipment: We’ll help identify any equipment you might need to stay safe and independent. 

If you have any concerns about managing at home after discharge, please speak with your nurse or doctor. 

 

Discharge instructions

Before you leave, your nurse will go through everything you need to know for your recovery at home. This will include: 

• Follow-up care instructions and when to book any appointments. 
• Medications to take home (if needed). 
• Finalising any aftercare or support services. 

Make sure you’ve arranged for someone to pick you up, if needed.

If you live alone and don’t have someone to take you home, please let the team know before your admission so we can help plan ahead. 

 

Understanding discharge planning

Discharge planning is an important part of your stay. It helps ensure a safe and smooth transition to home or to another care setting if needed. 

Our team will work with you to make sure the right clinical and community-based supports are in place before you leave. 

If you have any concerns about managing after your stay, please speak with your care team. We're here to help. 

Key support for discharge planning

Several people work together to make sure you’re supported when you leave: 

• You and your family or carer: Let us know if you have any concerns about managing at home. 
• Your treating doctor: Will identify any specific medical needs or recovery requirements. 
• Nursing and allied health staff: Can recommend services or support that may help, such as physiotherapy or community care. 
• Care coordinators: Provide information and help organise the support you need at home. 

By identifying your needs early, we can put the right plans in place to help you recover safely and confidently after discharge. 

 

Common concerns to discuss

If any of the following apply to you, please let your health care team know. This will help us plan the right support for your discharge: 

• You live alone.
• You care for someone else, such as a partner, child or family member.
• You were using community services (e.g. Meals on Wheels, home nursing) before coming to hospital.
• You need help with daily tasks like showering, dressing or preparing meals. 

Please note: Community services may have limited availability and eligibility criteria can apply for government-funded support. Talking to us early gives us the best chance to find the right help for you. 

If you need any assistance, please contact us:

• Phone: (02) 4915 9010