Going Home
Discharge Instructions and Medications
Your physician and your nurse will give you instructions about post-hospital care. If you have questions about your diet, activities or other matters, speak with your nurse. If your physician has prescribed medications, you will be given a prescription, which you may have filled at your local pharmacy.
Home Health Care
Your physician may order skilled services in your place of residence once you leave the hospital. These services will be arranged by the hospital Case Manager or Home Health Liaison after discussing the plan of care with you. Home health services may include skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy.
The home health services ordered by the physician is covered by Medicare at 100%, and most insurances cover skilled services at home with a small co-pay responsibility as outlined in your insurance policy. The Home Health Team can inform you of your financial responsibility prior to beginning services.
Lifeline Program
Available through Mercy Memorial Home Health, Lifeline is a 1-inch waterproof emergency call button that may be worn around the neck or wrist, resembling a pendant or wristwatch. The button activates a small home telephone attachment called a communicator.
When the wearer presses the button, the communicator instantly sends an alert signal to the Lifeline Call Center. A trained Lifeline Monitor responds by voice to find out what kind of help is needed. He or she will immediately call for help if necessary or may ask a designated neighbor, friend, or relative to check in on the caller for assistance.
Financial Arrangements
The hospital's financial advisors confirm insurance benefits prior to or immediately after admission. Payment for estimated charges not covered by insurance are requested at the time of discharge. This includes charges such as insurance deductibles, co-payments and guest meal trays.
