Connect the people involved
Make sure the discharge team knows about stairs, living alone, existing carers, communication needs and equipment. Ask how the GP and other services will receive the relevant information.
MAKE AN INFORMED CHOICE
Planning a safe hospital discharge
Understand the service, how to ask for it and which practical details to confirm.
What should be arranged before I leave hospital?
Before discharge, confirm the care plan, medicines, transport, follow-up and any help needed at home. Ask who is arranging each item and what to do if it is not ready.
Sources checked 10 September 2026 · England · Use this to prepare a discussion with your healthcare professional.
Make the plan work at home
Check access and payment
Confirm who assesses or refers you, the area covered, the first appointment and any charges. A directory listing does not establish that the service can meet your needs or start on your preferred date.
Your appointment and planning checklist
Connect the plan to costs and services
Compare the correct procedure or service, then check the provider’s current offer, referral route and practical arrangements.
Respite care costs
Published nursing care: respite stay fees average about £2,211 across 2 providers in our sample. This includes advertised guide or starting prices.
Fees, funding and cost planner →Live-in care costs
Elder lists a starting fee of £1,150 for introductory live-in care.
Fees, funding and cost planner →Confirm that the named service provides the particular therapy or treatment you need. Historical evidence does not establish a current place or appointment.
Sources and coverage
Prepared from the sources below, checked on 10 September 2026. This is general decision and practical planning information. The linked clinical guidance and your treating team provide the detail needed for your care.
From a choice to a care plan
Treatment options and decision guides
Understand the choices to discuss with your clinician, then connect them to costs, providers and recovery support.
Explore the guides →Getting a medical second opinion
Choose an NHS or private route, prepare the right records and understand what happens after another specialist reviews your care.
Explore the guides →Recovery, rehabilitation and support
Plan the help you may need after treatment: getting home, moving safely, everyday tasks, therapy and care costs.
Explore the guides →