Being discharged from the hospital can be both a relief and a challenge. For many patients and families, it’s a moment filled with uncertainty, new instructions, and concerns about what comes next. According to Dr. Angie Ingraham, board-certified patient advocate and founder of True North Patient Advocates, LLC, preparing early and maintaining open communication are the keys to a safe and smooth transition home.
Why Discharges Are High-Risk Moments
Discharge is considered a “high-risk moment” because of the complexity of the transition. Communication breakdowns, the difficulty of coordinating care between the hospital and home, and the physical changes patients often experience after hospitalization all contribute to the risk. As Dr. Ingraham puts it, “Patients are often not the same as they were in or after the hospital as when they came into the hospital.”
Common Mistakes Families Make
One of the most frequent oversights is waiting until the last minute to think about discharge. Dr. Ingraham stresses the importance of planning from the beginning: “Steven Covey says, begin with the end in mind. So, I want people to think about their discharge from the moment that they step into the hospital.”
Other common issues include confusion over medication changes, not having supplies or support arranged at home, and unclear discharge instructions. Families should expect more than a handout; they should engage in a conversation to fully understand what is normal, what requires attention, and who to call with questions.
Preparing for Home
One of the best ways families can help ensure a safer discharge is by describing what home life looks like to hospital staff. This can include details like whether there are stairs, whether transportation is available for follow-up appointments, or whether a caregiver is comfortable managing wound care.
Sharing this information allows providers to anticipate challenges and arrange services or equipment in advance. Dr. Ingraham recalls caring for her father, who used a wheelchair. “We only had steps to go into our house. We were fortunate we had someone come out and build a ramp the next day. But that takes planning.”
The Role of Providers and Patient Advocates
Healthcare teams play a critical role in discharge by setting clear goals for patients rather than vague timelines. Instead of simply saying a patient will go home in a certain number of days, providers can outline specific benchmarks—such as stable vital signs, controlled pain, or the ability to move around safely—that must be met before discharge. This approach gives families a checklist to monitor progress and prepare accordingly.
Independent patient advocates can also provide valuable support, helping families coordinate care, clarify instructions, and make sure concerns are addressed before the patient leaves the hospital.
Why the Process Takes Time
While families sometimes feel frustrated by delays or paperwork, Dr. Ingraham emphasizes that these steps are designed to protect patients. Insurance approvals, equipment orders, and administrative processes can take time, and moving too quickly could result in readmissions. “Hospitals and healthcare providers are really looking to make those transitions as optimal as they can,” she says. “They don’t want you to be back in the emergency room.”
Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up
For patients and families who feel overwhelmed, the most important advice is simple: ask questions. “Trust me, your providers want to know if you’re not understanding something,” Dr. Ingraham explains. “They can’t help you if they don’t know.”
Moving Forward With Confidence
Hospital discharge doesn’t have to be confusing or risky. By planning early, communicating openly, and ensuring instructions are fully understood, families can help their loved ones transition safely home. As Dr. Ingraham reminds us, it all comes back to communication—between patients, families, and the healthcare team.
For more resources, visit truenorthpatientadvocates.com.
