Going into and leaving hospital

Preparing for a hospital stay

It’s worth making a few preparations before you go into hospital.

Check your home insurance to see whether the terms change if the house is unoccupied.

Think about asking a friend or relative to stay with you or visit you when you return from hospital. Put items you use regularly such as your TV remote control, radio or box of tissues in easy reach near where you’ll be spending most of your time when you come out of hospital.

Stock up on drinks and foods that are easy to prepare such as frozen ready meals. Check you have other essential items including basic painkillers ready for when you return.

As well as nightwear and toiletries, remember to pack:

• your appointment card or admission letter
• a small amount of money for phone calls or items from the hospital shop
• all the medicines you normally take, in their original boxes if possible. If you have a card giving details of your current treatment, take this as well
• a notebook and pen to write down any questions you have
• your address book, including the name and telephone number of your GP.

Before you go into hospital, have a bath or shower, wash your hair, cut your nails and put on clean clothes. This will help prevent harmful bacteria coming into hospital with you.

Transport to the hospital

If your condition or disability makes using public transport or getting in and out of a car difficult, you may be eligible for free non-emergency NHS transport. If you are, your GP can arrange this for your first appointment. There may also be a voluntary driver scheme.

You can claim a refund for travel costs, including parking, if you receive certain benefits such as Pension Credit Guarantee Credit. Ask the hospital outpatients department for details. If you don’t receive any qualifying benefits but you’re on a low income, you may be able to get help through the NHS Low Income scheme.