Leaving hospital to return home

This leaflet explains why you are leaving hospital and what you might expect after your discharge.

Why am I leaving hospital?

The team caring for you has agreed that you no longer need hospital care and it is safe for you to return home to continue your recovery.

Why can’t I stay in hospital?

Once you no longer need hospital care, it is better for your recovery to continue out of hospital. Staying in hospital longer than necessary can reduce your independence, lead to a loss of muscle strength, or increase your risk of infection. Leaving hospital when you are ready not only benefits you but also frees up a bed for someone in greater need.

Our priority is to ensure you are in the right place at the right time for the best recovery possible. The best place for you now is at home, where you can continue to recover in a familiar environment.

What might I expect?

The team caring for you will discuss transport and other arrangements with you (and with your carers, family or friends if you wish). If you have coronavirus (COVID-19), you will be provided with relevant advice.

If you need more care and support now than when you came into hospital, the team will discuss options for receiving that care following discharge. They will also advise on when you should be assessed for any long-term care and support. If you need such care and support, you may be required to contribute towards its cost.