Tips & Advice
How can someone find more information about a local hospital?
Many hospitals have their own websites that include information about services offered and how to contact personnel. But you can also search online, in the phone book, and through health and medical-focused review websites.
How much do typical hospital services cost?
Medical service prices vary according to the hospital, the type of procedure, and many regulations. The price that a patient actually pays will depend on their insurance coverage policies. If they do not have health insurance, patients may establish payment plans with the health care provider directly.
What should seniors know about the basics of hospital care?
Most Americans older than 65 are insured under the Medicare program for emergency hospital visits and basic medical care. Whether you are about to turn 65 or already have, you should familiarize yourself with the Medicare program and the benefits it provides. Medicare can work in conjunction with a workplace or other private health plan. Seniors should also take the time to establish legal documents concerning future medical care and end-of-life procedures. These include a living will, advance medical directive, and related documents.
What are the rules for visiting family members or friends in the hospital?
Visitation rules vary by hospital, but in general, any biological or legal family member of a patient is allowed to visit them at an appropriate time and at the patient’s discretion. Friends are typically allowed to visit at the patient’s and their caregiver’s discretion. A patient may also designate a support person to make decisions on their behalf regarding visitation.
In the event of an emergency, can you tell an ambulance which hospital to go to?
Ambulances are driven and staffed by medical professionals who will transport patients to the closest hospital that can provide the specific services needed. Some hospitals specialize in certain types of emergency care - facilities that specialize in trauma, heart attacks, stroke victims, and children are a few common examples. The patient being transported has the right to request a particular hospital, but the ambulance personnel may refuse this request if they have reason to believe treatment is required as soon as possible. Paramedics may require you to sign a waiver before transporting you to a hospital that you request.
When is it OK to drive yourself to a hospital, and when should 9-1-1 be called?
If you need medical treatment that is not life-threatening and you can safely operate a vehicle, you can drive to the nearest hospital to receive treatment. In life-threatening cases, emergency services should be contacted by calling 9-1-1 (in the United States only). Some conditions that require immediate medical attention include:
- Heavy bleeding that will not stop
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Sudden confusion, difficulty forming words or moving
- Chest pain
- Choking
- Coughing up or vomiting blood
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Thoughts of hurting oneself or another person
- Injury to the head or spine
- Severe vomiting that does not stop
- Sudden severe pain anywhere in the body
- Sudden dizziness, weakness or difficulty seeing
- Swallowing a poisonous substance
- Severe upper abdominal pain or pressure
Is a hospital the same as an urgent care clinic or emergency room?
Hospitals are often built as a campus comprising multiple buildings, each with a specific function. Most hospitals will have separate facilities for emergency care and routine outpatient services, sometimes called urgent care.
How can you find the best hospital for a specific need?
There are many hospitals around the U.S. that specialize in specific treatments. Your doctor may be able to recommend a specialist for a certain condition or type of treatment that you need. It’s also possible to research hospital rankings online. Make sure the treatment and the provider itself are both covered under your insurance plan to minimize costs.
How do you know if treatment at a hospital is covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage varies depending on the plan you pay into. Ask your insurance provider for information on hospital services and how they are paid for. Doctors and other hospital staff will not be able to provide this information because it varies depending on your insurance plan.
What services are available at most hospitals?
Hospitals in the United States provide a range of inpatient and outpatient services. Inpatient services are those that require a patient to stay under medical supervision in a hospital for at least one night, as in some surgeries. Outpatient services include routine doctor visits as well as some minor surgical procedures.
