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Discharged from the hospital and can’t go home alone: what to do today

It happens often: the hospital gives just one day’s notice. These steps help you avoid deciding blindly.

If there is a medical emergency, call 911.

1. Talk to the discharge planner today

Ask to speak with the hospital’s discharge planner or social worker. You can ask for a Spanish interpreter at no cost: hospitals that receive federal funds must offer one. Ask:

  • What kind of care will be needed: rehab, nursing, help with bathing and dressing?
  • Was your loved one admitted as an inpatient or kept under observation? That changes what Medicare pays.
  • Which places in the area have a bed today and accept their coverage?
  • Can home health care be ordered if they go back home?

2. Have these on hand

  • Medicare, Medicaid or insurance cards, and an ID.
  • A list of medications and diagnoses (ask for the discharge summary).
  • The name and phone number of the primary care doctor.
  • If there is one, the power of attorney or advance directives.

3. Look at several options at once

Call 3 or 4 places the same day. On hogaresparamayores.com you can see the ones in your area with their Medicare star rating, whether they accept Medicaid and their license, and call them directly.

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4. Even if it’s urgent, don’t skip this

  • Check the rating and the latest inspection report (it’s on each facility page).
  • Ask in writing what the price includes and what happens when the Medicare days run out.
  • If you can, visit or ask for a video call to see the place.

5. If you think the discharge is too soon

With Medicare, you have the right to appeal before leaving. Call the quality improvement organization (BFCC-QIO) number listed on the notice “An Important Message from Medicare.” More help: 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), with help available in Spanish.

Frequently asked questions

Can they discharge me even if I have nowhere to go?
The hospital must make a safe discharge plan. If you have Medicare and think the discharge is too soon, you can appeal: the hospital must give you the notice “An Important Message from Medicare,” and you can ask your state’s quality improvement organization (BFCC-QIO) for a fast review before you leave. In the meantime, you don’t pay for the extra days.
Does Medicare pay for a nursing home after a hospital stay?
Yes, a short rehab stay in a skilled nursing facility, if the person was admitted to the hospital as an inpatient for at least 3 days (days “under observation” don’t count) and the doctor orders it. In 2026, days 1 to 20 cost nothing after the deductible, and days 21 to 100 cost $217 a day.
What if there is no Medicare or Medicaid?
Ask the hospital social worker about state programs and emergency Medicaid. The rules for immigrants changed in 2026: check your situation with your state Medicaid agency or with a legal aid organization.

Sources: Medicare.gov — Skilled nursing facility care; CMS — 2026 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles. Checked on October 15, 2026.