Sometimes, getting well will require a stay in a hospital. When circumstances permit, plan ahead for your hospital stay.
- Choose a hospital that has treated many patients with your condition or performed the surgery you need. Your doctor and the Hospital Performance Report will be able to help you identify the best hospitals in your area.
- Pack pens and paper so that you can write down answers to any questions you ask hospital staff.
- Ask a friend or family member to serve as your health advocate in the event that you’re unable to communicate with hospital staff. You may also hire a professional health advocate. Additionally, some hospitals have patient advocates on staff. Call the hospital and ask to speak with them.
- Ask your physician whether she or he will visit you in the hospital. If they will not, ask for the name of the physician who will oversee your hospital care.
- Find out which hospital staff will develop your care plan. Ask them how often they will meet to discuss your needs and how they will communicate with you and your family.