Hospital Discharge Transportation.

Discharge transportation is the journey from a hospital to the patient’s next setting, such as home or another care facility. Discharge itself does not establish a need for an ambulance.

When to start the conversation

Ask the discharge planner or treating team which form of transportation is appropriate. A planned departure should account for both the patient’s needs and the receiving setting’s readiness.

1. 01

   Speak with the discharge team

   Clarify the expected discharge date and who is coordinating transportation.
2. 02

   Prepare the receiving setting

   Identify the person or facility contact who expects the patient and discuss arrival access.
3. 03

   Confirm the next step

   Ask how pickup timing will be communicated and whom to call if the discharge plan changes.

• Has the destination been arranged?
• Who should receive updates about pickup timing?
• Who can answer questions about discharge instructions?

Contact MEDICS to discuss a transportation request. The appropriate arrangement and availability must be confirmed for the individual trip. Keep patient and medical details out of general email.

General reference: Medicare: ambulance transportation. This guide explains a category; the patient’s care team determines their care needs.