Preparing for hospitalization is an important process that requires attention to detail. Proper preparation helps reduce stress, speeds up the hospitalization process, and improves patient outcomes. Here’s a checklist to help you be prepared for hospitalization.

Documents and information

• Make sure you have all the documents you need, including:
• Passport or ID card.
• Insurance policy and card (if you have one).
• A referral for hospitalization from your doctor.
• Medical history or medical records.
• A list of all medications you are taking (including dosage).

Prepare contact information for your relatives or loved ones who can be connected to medical personnel in case of emergency.

Information about medical conditions and allergies

Update your health information, including any current illnesses and allergies to medications, foods or substances

• Prepare a list of all chronic conditions that may affect your treatment.

Drugs and medications

• If you have prescription medications, bring them with you to the hospital and list them on paper (dosage, frequency and time of administration).
• If you have a need for specific medications, discuss with your doctor whether they can be continued in the hospital.

Personal belongings

• Pack necessary items for hospitalization:
• Clothing for your room stay (comfortable, lightweight clothes, slippers, pajamas).
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, shower gel, etc.).
• Personal items such as eyeglasses, hearing aids, phones and chargers.
• If you need any additional devices or appliances (such as inhalers), bring them with you.
• It is important not to take valuables (such as expensive jewelry), as hospitals cannot always guarantee their safety.

Mental preparation

• Try to prepare yourself mentally by discussing all your concerns with your doctor, including questions about the hospitalization process and treatment.
• If you are going to have surgery, discuss the details with the surgeon and anesthesiologist.

Notifying loved ones

• Inform your loved ones about the time of your hospitalization and the planned course of treatment.
• Make sure they have information on how to contact you at the hospital and who your doctor will be.

Household organization

• If you need to spend a few days in the hospital, make sure household chores are organized – for example, who will take care of pets, who will take important calls, etc.
• If you have a job, notify your employer of your condition.

Before you go to the hospital

• Have a checkup with your general practitioner or primary care physician (if you haven’t done so beforehand) for a final health check.
• Make sure you have any necessary advice from your doctors to prepare for hospitalization (for example, if you need to restrict your food or water intake).

What to take with you to the hospital

• Medications you are still taking (with instructions).
• Documents (ID card, insurance policy).
• If you have special needs (such as diet), check with the hospital to see how to arrange this.

Final points before hospitalization

• Check that you have all the necessary documents and belongings.
• Make sure you have the money to pay for necessary services at the hospital (e.g. extras).

Thorough preparation will help you feel more confident and reduce the stress associated with hospitalization.