CalHospitalCompare.org

Overview

In the prior sections we talked about why quality matters and how to choose the best hospital for your treatment. In this section we will help you get ready for your hospital stay.

This checklist shows the topics we will cover. Read the pages that follow for details about each topic. Click on the headers below to go to each page.

Understand Your Treatment

• Ask your doctor questions.

Ensure Your Rights and Preferences

• Know your legal rights.
• Prepare and distribute your advance directives.
• Arrange your personal support network.

Get Ready to Go

• Attend your pre-admission appointment.
• Pack for the hospital.

Know Your Risks

• Read about how to reduce your risks.
• Take care of yourself.
• Know what to do if there's a problem.

Leave the Hospital

• Review your recovery plan with a discharge planner.
• Use the checklist provided to help remember your plan.

Read on for more information.