Coming home from hospital
Discharge arrangements will vary depending on whether someone is returning home or moving into a care home (for information on moving into a care home from hospital please see long term care section).
Carers are also entitled to have their views considered and needs assessed. It should not be assumed that family members will be able or willing to provide all the help required. The NHS Lothian Carer Information Strategy states that carers are:
entitled to general information about the condition and medication, even if the person who is being cared for does not consent to specific personal information being shared.
A discharge guide for carers living in Edinburgh and the Lothian - 'Leaving Hospital' - has been produced by NHS Lothian (for printed copies please call 0131 536 3371). This guide outlines how discharge planning works in Edinburgh and Lothian, and has a list of useful contacts and resources.
