We know that coming to the hospital for any reason may be stressful. The Department of Care Coordination includes professional staff including nurses, social workers, and community specialists with many years of clinical experience in all specialty areas. Our staff is available to provide assistance prior to and during your admission to the hospital and plan for your safe discharge to the community.
Call us if you would like to talk about:
- Care options following discharge from BWH including rehab facilities, nursing homes, and home care
- Your adjustment to medical procedures and treatment
- Social and/or financial concerns
- Insurance
- Community Resources
- Personal safety, physical abuse/neglect
- Relationship/family issues
- Your living situation including needs for local accommodations, short-term housing needs and in-home services
Below is a list of some commonly asked questions we receive from patients and their families. Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can be of assistance to you. We are available to you and/or your family to discuss your concerns 7 days a week. You may ask your doctor or nurse to contact us for you, or you may call us directly at (617)732-6469.
Q & A
How can we help you plan for discharge?
Your medical team may advise care at home (visiting nurses) or transfer you to another facility after your stay at BWH. Your medical condition often determines which location your insurance plan covers. We can offer you choices based on your need, insurance benefits, and availability of services in your community.
Do you have resources to provide counseling and emotional support?
Social workers are available, within service lines, to provide emotional support, counseling, and referrals to community and support groups.
Can you help me with my insurance questions?
Your best source for information about insurance benefits is the customer service office for your insurance company. Usually, the number is on your insurance card. We can guide you in finding answers to your questions about insurance and/or finances. Always ask if you do not understand your benefits.
What is an Advance Directive/Health Care Proxy? Do I need one?
An Advance Directive allows you to name a person who can make medical decisions for you if you are not able to make them yourself. We encourage our patients to think about this and discuss it with their family, friends and their primary care physician. We can provide you with additional information and the necessary forms if you would like to complete an advance directive. Your Directive will then be copied and placed in your permanent BWH medical record.
Do I need a Primary Care Physician (PCP) even if my health insurance does not require it?
It is always good to have a PCP who you can contact on a regular basis to help you maintain or improve your health. In an emergency situation, a PCP may be the person who best understands your health history and can help choose the best course of treatment for you. If you would like to select a BWH PCP please let us know or call the BWH Physician Referral Service at 1-800-294-9999.
