Going Home

A member of the BH Case Management Department is available to assist you with the development of a discharge plan. Many patients are able to return directly home without any services. However, sometimes help from professionals is required to make your transition home safe and comfortable for you. We have an array of service options such as home care agencies, durable medical equipment companies, our Swing Bed Program, or other rehab facilities, and much more based upon your needs.

When your doctor decides you are ready to leave the hospital, a discharge order will be written. You may want to make arrangements with a family member or friend to help you when it's time to go home. Some important things to remember concerning:

• Personal Belongings
  Collect all of your personal belongings and double-check closets and drawers. Our staff will assist you. If you have anything stored in the hospital safe, contact your nurse.
• Discharge Instructions
  Your doctor and your nurse will give you instructions about post-hospital care. If you have questions about your diet, activities or other matters, please be sure to ask.
• Transportation Service
  When you are ready to leave, a member of the hospital staff will escort you to the front entrance and help you into the car.

There are occasions when patients need additional treatment or care after they are discharged from the hospital. To meet the special needs of these patients' Bridgton Hospital offers some specific options:

• Swing Bed Program (Skilled Level Care)
  The unit is designed for patients who no longer require acute care in a hospital but who need additional short-term care before discharge. Rehabilitation and specialized nursing care are emphasized.
• Home Health Care
  There are several home health care agencies in our region that can supply nurses/nurse aides, medical social workers and therapists for home health care. Additional home care resources may be obtained by contacting our Social Services/ Case Management Department.
• Home Medical Equipment
  There are durable medical equipment companies which provide a wide range of medical equipment supplies and oxygen therapy equipment to patients in their homes.