Recovering After a Hospital Stay

Helpful strategies and tips to support healing.

By Frances Smith

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The transition home after a hospital stay is part of the healing process and can take some adjustment. Whether your stay was planned or unexpected, it’s normal to need time to readjust — managing medications, scheduling follow‑up appointments and arranging additional support if needed. Explore these tips to help make your move back home as smooth as possible.

Tip #1: Start asking questions the first day in the hospital

Talk to your care team about what going home will be like.

You can start by asking, “What are signs that I’m healing properly?” Ask about specific changes to watch for — changes in appetite, mood, pain level or a feeling that something’s not right. Being aware of shifts in physical or mental health can help you recognize changes. (See a list of helpful questions in the checklist below.)

Photo of a woman and a younger family member talking with a doctor

Tip #2: Ask a friend or family member for support

If you have a family member or close friend available, consider asking them to be with you during your hospital stay. They can help take notes, ask questions and ensure you have a clear plan for returning home. They can also review your discharge instructions with you and your care team to help you feel more prepared.

If your health plan allows, you may also want to work with a care manager. They understand which health care providers and services are in your plan’s network.

Tip #3: Learn about your medications

Your medications may change during your hospital stay, including the addition of new prescriptions. Reviewing your medications with your primary care provider (PCP) after a hospital stay can help you understand what to take and avoid potential issues. Regular check‑ins and a clear understanding of your medications can support a smoother recovery and help you stay healthier over time.

Make sure you take medication exactly as prescribed. If you have any questions about taking your medication or are worried about negative side effects, call your PCP or pharmacist.

Illustration of a bottle of medicine tablets

Photo of a man holding medicine while talking with a doctor

Tip #4: Pay close attention to instructions

Make sure you understand your discharge instructions. Write down notes, or use the video function on your phone to record instructions and help you remember. Ask a friend or family member for help too. Keep all paperwork in a folder so you have it all in one place.

Your health plan or community may offer support services such as home meal delivery and transportation to appointments after a hospital stay. Talk to a UnitedHealthcare advocate or hospital staff member about what’s available.

Tip #5: Let your primary care provider know what’s happened

After you leave the hospital (or after an emergency room visit), it’s important to schedule a follow‑up appointment as soon as you can, preferably within a week of your discharge. This may be an in-person or virtual visit with your provider, depending on the situation. Scheduling your follow-up appointment right away gives your provider the chance to check in on how you’re healing and offer the support you need.

Be sure to ask your PCP’s office if they already have your hospital records. If not, they can request them so your care team stays fully informed.

Photo of a woman consulting with a nurse at a clinic

How to prevent hospitalizations

Talking with your provider and any specialists you see is an important way to help reduce your chances of being hospitalized again.

Consider this conversation-starter with your PCP: “If I have a chronic condition like heart failure or chronic lung disease, what are the things I should watch for that indicate I need additional medical attention? When should I call you or schedule an appointment?” You can also contact your PCP’s office with any questions, and a nurse may be available to assist you.

Your PCP can also help you tell the difference between health issues that are and are not an emergency. In certain cases, your provider may suggest urgent care with extended hours or a virtual visit.

As you follow your discharge instructions and receive support, give yourself time — you’re taking important steps toward recovery. By following these steps, you can stay healthier and help avoid going back to the hospital.

Illustration of a woman being comforted by a younger family member

Update your personal support network

If someone helps you with these or other types of care, let us know:

Schedules provider appointments
Helps around the house
Provides transportation
Manages medications

Add loved ones to your personal support network to ensure they get the information they need to better help with your care.

To update your personal support network, visit your member site.

6 things to ask your primary care provider

After a hospital stay, talk to your primary care provider about the topics below.

Click here to print this checklist

Virtual visits may require video-enabled smartphone or other device. Not for use in emergencies. Not all network providers offer virtual care.

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This publication is for informational purposes only and does not replace the care or advice of a doctor. Always talk with a doctor before beginning any exercise program, therapy or medication. Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year. UnitedHealthcare does not provide any assurances nor accept any responsibility or liability regarding the quality, nutritional value, or safety of the included recipes.