Updated October 2026
Did you know that when it’s time to leave the hospital, you have a say in where you receive your next level of care? Many patients and families assume that the hospital discharge planner or case manager makes that decision. While these professionals play an important role in coordinating care, you have the right to participate in the decision about where you go after leaving the hospital. In fact, Medicare has specific rules requiring hospitals to involve patients and their families in discharge planning, provide information about available care options, and respect patient preferences whenever possible.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you or a loved one needs additional care following a hospital stay, whether at a rehabilitation hospital, skilled nursing facility, or through home health services, you have several important rights.
You have the right to know your options. Hospitals must provide certain patients with a list of available Medicare-participating facilities that provide the appropriate level of care in the relevant geographic area. This means you don’t have to limit your choices to the facilities initially suggested by your discharge planner.
You have the right to make an informed decision. Hospitals must share relevant quality information about available providers, helping you compare facilities and determine which may best meet your needs.
Your preferences matter. If you have a particular rehabilitation hospital or other facility in mind, tell your discharge planner. Of course, the facility you choose must be medically appropriate, have availability, and meet applicable insurance requirements.
What If You Have Medicare Advantage?
Patients enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans also have the right to participate in discharge planning and express their preferences. However, Medicare Advantage plans often have provider networks and may require prior authorization before approving rehabilitation or other post-hospital services. If your preferred facility is not in your plan’s network, ask whether an exception or other coverage option is available.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions!
Before leaving the hospital, ask your discharge planner:
- What type of care will I need after discharge?
- What facilities are available in my preferred area?
- Can I choose a facility that wasn’t initially recommended?
- Does my insurance cover my preferred facility?
- What happens if I disagree with the discharge plan?
Your discharge planner should help you understand your options and coordinate a safe transition to the next level of care. Choosing where to receive care after hospitalization is an important decision that can affect your recovery, independence, and quality of life.
At Whittier Health Network, our rehabilitation hospitals in Bradford and Westborough, Massachusetts, provide specialized inpatient rehabilitation services to help patients recover from illness, injury, or surgery. If you or a loved one needs rehabilitation following hospitalization, contact one of our admissions coordinators to learn how we can help.
Source: Medicare Conditions of Participation, 42 CFR § 482.43 – Discharge Planning.
Resources:
- Contact Bradford Rehabilitation Hospital
- Contact Westborough Rehabilitation Hospital
- Refer A Patient
- Medicare Guidelines regarding Inpatient & Outpatient
- Discharge planning from the Center for Medicare Advocacy
- Your right to care that honors your wishes
- Patients are important members of the healthcare team
