Planning for a hospital stay can be stressful. Use this list to pack what you need and handle important paperwork before you go in.

Important Documents

Bring your photo ID and current health insurance card.
Bring a copy of your advance directive or living will.
Have a list of your emergency contacts.
Bring a list of all the medicines you take.
Bring any paperwork your surgeon or doctor gave you.

Things to Pack

Comfortable, loose clothes to wear home.
Slippers or socks with non-slip bottoms.
Your glasses, hearing aids, or dentures and their cases.
Your phone and a charger with a long cord.
A book or magazines to read while you rest.
Only a small amount of money and no expensive jewelry.

Asking About Costs

Verify that the hospital is in your insurance network.
Ask if all the doctors who will treat you are in-network.
Ask for an estimate of what you will owe out-of-pocket.
Ask if the hospital offers financial help under IRS 501(r) rules.
Check if you need prior authorization for the admission.

Getting Ready to Go Home

Ask for written instructions on how to care for yourself at home.
Make sure you have prescriptions for any new medicines.
Ask who to call if you feel worse or have a fever.
Find out when you need to see your regular doctor again.
Make sure you have a safe ride home.

Tip: Under the No Surprises Act, you have protections against surprise out-of-network bills for emergency services at the hospital.

This checklist is educational information only. It is not medical, legal, or financial advice. Confirm details with your insurer, provider, or an official government source.

Hospital Stay Checklist

Important Documents

Things to Pack

Asking About Costs

Getting Ready to Go Home