How to help prevent a hospital readmission
After a hospital or emergency room (ER) visit, taking the right steps can make a big difference in your recovery and long-term health. Stay engaged in your care by following simple, proactive steps that support healing, help prevent complications and reduce the chance of returning to the hospital. Staying out of the hospital can mean less disruption to your life and help contribute to long-term health.
What steps should you take after a hospital stay?
Fortunately, you can take steps to help your body heal and help avoid hospital readmission. You can be proactive about your care before you leave the hospital and once you get home.
Know your care plan
A care plan is typically a written and personalized guide to help you transition from hospital to home. It may cover medication management, follow-up appointments, rehabilitation therapies, dietary restrictions and wound care, depending on your diagnosis.
Before leaving the hospital or ER:
- Ask for a written summary of your discharge instructions and next steps, so you can refer to them at home
- Make sure you fully understand your care plan
- Ask your provider about warning signs to watch for, such as changes in your symptoms or unexpected side effects, so you know when to seek help
- Add your provider’s phone number to your contacts so you can reach them easily
- Set up a reminder to schedule your follow-up appointment before leaving the facility
- Update your emergency contact information with your provider for smooth communication if urgent issues arise
Schedule a follow up visit with your provider
Scheduling a follow-up visit with your provider within 7 days after any hospital or ER discharge is essential. This appointment helps your provider check on your recovery, answer questions about your medications and spot potential complications early.
If you were treated at a hospital or ER and your primary care provider (PCP) was unaware, share the details with them so they have a complete picture of your health.
If it's hard to visit your provider in person, ask about virtual visits.
Review your medications
Medication changes during a hospital stay may be confusing. Review your medications with your provider after discharge to make sure you understand what to take, when and why. Bring a complete list of all your medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements to your follow-up visit. If you’re unsure about any medication changes, talk to your pharmacist for clarification. Proper medication management helps prevent mistakes and keeps your recovery on track.
Tips to avoid hospital readmission
You can help your recovery after being in the hospital by being mindful and taking small, manageable steps each day. By following these tips, you can help lower your risk of preventable hospital readmission and support better long-term health.
Know when to use urgent care vs. the ER
Learn where to go for medical care to help get the care you need, when you need it.
However, if your symptoms are severe, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing or signs of stroke, don’t wait — call 911 and seek emergency help right away.
Use your member site or app
Most health insurance plans offer online member sites or apps that make it easier to manage your health. UnitedHealthcare members can sign in to their member site or use the UnitedHealthcare app. Members may be able to use these digital tools to find providers, view claims, track prescriptions and more.
Reviewing your insurance plan benefits can also help you understand what follow-up services and support are covered, so you can take full advantage of available resources.
Ask about available resources and community support
Hospital readmission affects many people, but it doesn't impact everyone equally. Some people may find their recovery feels harder because of challenges in their daily life.
Things like limited support, transportation, language barriers or other life challenges can make it more difficult to heal and avoid another hospital visit. Getting the right support can make recovery feel more manageable and help you stay on track.1
When you talk with your provider, ask about resources that may help, such as:
- An easy-to-read list of home care steps to follow
- Access to translation services
- Help connecting you to community-based support services
UnitedHealthcare helps make it easier for members to find free or reduced-cost community resources. These can help with medical care, food, housing, transportation and more.
Take steps to stay healthy
Taking proactive steps after a hospital or emergency room discharge is one of the best ways to help protect your health and avoid readmission.
- Attend all recommended follow-up tests or specialist visits — they’re an important part of your recovery
- Keep a health journal to track symptoms, questions or concerns to talk about with your provider at your next visit
Certain conditions are linked to higher rates of hospital readmission, including heart failure, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), heart attack and pneumonia.2 If you have any of these conditions, following your care plan closely and staying in touch with your provider is especially important.
By following your care plan, attending follow-up appointments, reviewing medications and using available resources, you give yourself the best chance for a smooth recovery and a healthier future.
Are you a member looking for plan information and resources?
Your plan may offer tools and support to help you follow your care plan, manage medications, find providers and stay on track after a hospital stay. Explore your member resources to learn what’s available through your coverage.
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