Houston Methodist Discharge Process

Houston Methodist's discharge process is well-organised but moves quickly. Families often feel rushed. Here is what to expect and how to prepare.

The discharge planner

Every patient is assigned a discharge planner, usually a registered nurse or social worker. This person becomes your primary contact for transition planning. Ask for them by name on day two of admission. Andrew Harris, our owner, trained in the ICU at Houston Methodist and works closely with their discharge teams.

Discharge readiness criteria

The hospital follows specific clinical criteria for readiness. The discharge planner often knows 24–48 hours before family does. Ask early.

What gets sent home with the patient

Discharge summary, medication list, follow-up instructions, equipment orders. Review them in person before leaving, questions are easier to ask while still there.

Transportation

Hospital transport is rarely available. Plan for family transport or arrange medical transport. Wheelchair-accessible transportation is widely available in Houston but books up; arrange in advance.

Same-day home care

We arrange same-day home care for Houston Methodist discharges. Call when the discharge planner mentions a likely date, we can be ready before the patient leaves the hospital.