Discharge Process
What to expect on the day you leave hospital, and what to take home with you.
On the day of discharge
Discharge is a clinical decision, made when the treating doctor is satisfied it is safe.
- 1
The doctor confirms discharge
The treating team reviews the patient and confirms they are well enough to go home, and explains what recovery should look like.
- 2
Discharge summary is prepared
A written summary of the diagnosis, treatment given, medicines to continue and follow-up plan. Keep it — any doctor you see later will need it.
- 3
Medicines and instructions
Prescribed medicines can be collected from the hospital pharmacy, with instructions on dose, timing and how long to continue.
- 4
Billing is settled
The final bill is prepared. For insured patients, the claim is settled with the insurer or TPA, and you are told what, if anything, remains payable.
- 5
Follow-up appointment
A review appointment is arranged where one is needed, along with any tests to be done before it.
Before you leave, check
- You have the discharge summary and any reports or scans
- You understand each medicine: what it is for, the dose, and for how long
- You know the warning signs that mean you should come back
- You know when the follow-up appointment is, and with which department
- You have asked anything you are unsure about, including about cost
After you go home
If symptoms return or get worse — particularly fever, breathlessness, bleeding, severe pain, or a wound that becomes red, swollen or discharges — do not wait for the follow-up appointment. Come back or go to the nearest emergency department.
Being discharged soon?
Ask us about your discharge summary, medicines or follow-up appointment before you leave.