Inpatient information
Leaving hospital
Often the consultant in charge of your care will assess you when he or she sees you on their regular ward round and will let you know when you can go home.
If medicine is needed you will be given a two-week supply as a minimum (sometimes less for antibiotics) for which there are no prescription charges. If you need further medication please see your GP. You may also be given a letter to take to your GP, and your consultant will also write to your GP with information about your hospital stay.
You may need a sick certificate for your time in hospital, so please check with a member of staff.
It is a good idea to start planning for when you leave hospital as soon as possible after your admission. Hospitals are the right place to be when you have a specialist need, however you shouldn't stay longer than necessary as it can be difficult to readjust to a normal lifestyle.
What arrangements do I need to make?
- Transport home (family, friends, taxi etc.)
- Suitable clothing and footwear for the time of year
- Access to a key for your property
- Adequate food at home
- Adequate heating
Who can help me plan my discharge?
There is a hospital based team that can help you plan your discharge and a range of services available depending on your needs. You can speak to the ward staff and they will be able to help you.
We, along with other local hospitals, the primary care trust and local councils, have signed up to a set of quality standards to ensure the safe, effective and timely transfer of patients from hospital settings.
