If you have an upcoming hospital admission you might want to use the ideas below to help you prepare.
What to arrange at home
- If you have pets, you will need to make sure they are looked after while you are in hospital.
- You may want to make sure your fridge is empty of food that might go off while you are in hospital.
- You may need to have someone collect your mail or have Australia Post hold it for you (they charge a fee for this service).
- If you have any regular deliveries, such as the newspaper, you might want to cancel them.
- You may need to arrange the payment of any regular bills.
I'm a carer or have carers
- If you have care providers come to your home, you will need to tell them when you are going to hospital, and when you expect to come home.
- If you are a carer, Carers ACT can arrange for the person you care for to be looked after while you are in hospital. This is called respite care. You can phone Carers ACT on 1800 052 222.
- You might like to think about appointing an Enduring Power of Attorney and completing a Statement of Choices. This helps us know what your wishes are if you cannot tell us at any time during your hospital stay. You can learn more about this by phoning our Advance Care Planning team on (02) 5124 9274.
Getting to hospital
- How will you get to hospital? You may need to ask someone you know to take you. If you don’t have someone who can take you may be eligible for community transport. Find out more about community bus services.
- Make sure you know when to arrive at hospital and where you need to go. If you are not sure, please phone us before your admission:
- Canberra and University of Canberra Hospitals: (02) 5124 0000
- North Canberra Hospital: (02) 6201 6111
- Please come to the hospital a little early so that you have enough time to get to the right area.
Unplanned admission to hospital
We understand that unexpected admissions happen. If you have been admitted to hospital unexpectedly and haven’t had a chance to arrange things, or pack your medication, clothing, and documents we can help you contact people outside the hospital who may be able to organise things or bring you items.