Care After Discharge

Once you are discharged from the hospital, you will continue to recover in the outpatient setting. This phase includes managing medications, attending clinic visits, coordinating housing if needed, and staying alert of potential complications.

It's a time of transition - physically, emotionally, and logistically.

💡Pharmacy Tips

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Review your full medication list with your care team before discharge

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Ask about insurance coverage changes for outpatient prescriptions

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Confirm which medications require refrigeration, special timing, or food restrictions

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If you're using multiple pharmacies, ask about syncing refills to reduce confusion

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Keep a printed or digital copy of your current medication schedule for reference

💡Support Services Tips

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Social workers can assist with transportation, financial aid, and caregiver support

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Nutritionists may help with post-transplant diet adjustments and food safety

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Mental health professionals are available for counseling, anxiety, or trauma support

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Survivorship coordinators can guide long-term planning, including fertility and employment

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Ask about peer support programs or mentorship opportunities with other transplant survivors

💡Clinic Tips

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Expect frequent visits early on, often multiple times per week

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Clinics may offer "cluster care," combining labs, consults, and infusions in one visit

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You may be seen by rotating providers - ask for a care summary at each visit

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Bring a list of questions and symptoms to discuss; even small changes matter

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Ask about your visit schedule and how it may evolve over time

💡Housing Tips

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Some transplant centers require patients to live within a certain distance for a set period

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Ask about housing assistance programs, especially if you're traveling from out of town

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Clarify infection control expectations in shared housing (e.g., cleaning protocols, visitor limits)

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If staying with family or friends, discuss routines and safety measures ahead of time

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Keep emergency contacts and hospital directions easily accessible in your temporary space

💡Hospital Readmission Tips

Readmission is common and often part of the recovery process - not a setback. Reasons may include infection, GVHD, dehydration, or medication adjustments

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Know the signs that require urgent attention

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Keep a "go bag" ready with essentials in case you need to return quickly

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Ask your team about the process for re-entry - passes, direct lines, or preferred contact methods