Before You Check In
Getting ready for a surgery and hospital stay can be stressful for you and your family. Learn what to do ahead of time for a smooth check in and visit.
Get Insurance Pre-Approval
Make sure your surgery and hospital stay are approved by your insurance company before you check in. Your doctor’s office often starts the process, but it’s a good idea to call the number on the back of your insurance ID card to confirm approval.
Pre-Register with the Hospital
Speed check in at the hospital. Call 404-686-5270 or 1-800-640-9293 30 days before your surgery. You can call Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Prepare Your Advance Directive (Living Will)
Make sure your hospital caregivers and family know what kind of care you want in a life-threatening situation. Express your wishes on an advance directive (living will). This document tells your friends, family and doctors about your wishes for end-of-life care. You can also appoint a loved one to make your care decisions if you aren’t able to voice your choices. If you don’t already have an advance directive, we can help you. Call 404-354-3670.
Pack a Bag
You’ll rest better knowing you have everything you need. Pack a bag a day or two before surgery and put it where you’re sure to see it when you leave the house. Bring these important items (and few comforts from home):
- A photo ID
- Your insurance information
- A copy of your advance directive (living will), if you have one
- A list of all the medicine you take
- A list of any allergies you have
- Pajamas
- Toiletries like toothpaste and shampoo
Leave valuables like cash or jewelry at home. Hospital security is staffed round-the-clock, but there are times when your personal items may be left unattended in your room.
Inform Your Friends and Family
Your friends and family will be concerned about you and want to check on your progress. Make sure they know how to contact you during your stay.
Language and Hearing Services
Being able to speak clearly with your doctors and nurses, is critical to your health and safety. If English is not your first language, please ask your nurse for an interpreter to help you. We also have signing services and hearing aid compatible phones if you have any hearing problems.
Donate Blood
It’s best to be prepared with your own blood on-hand in case you need a blood transfusion during or after surgery. Your doctor may suggest you donate blood at the hospital before you check in for surgery. Your family and friends can also donate blood for you at the American Red Cross or another blood donor center. For more information or questions about blood donation, please call the American Red Cross or our Blood Bank at 404-686-1937.
During Your Stay
Recover a little easier with help from some of the services we offer to you and your family.
Spiritual Health
You may need extra support during your stay. Our hospital’s religious center and chapel welcomes people of all religions. Chaplains, priests, rabbis or imams can meet with you and your family any time, day or night.
To request pastoral care:
- Call the Chaplain’s Office at 404-354-3670 on weekdays, or
- Ask the hospital operator to page the chaplain on call.
Social Work and Discharge Planning
Our social workers can help you find:
- Counseling
- Financial help
- Short- and long-term care
- Medical equipment
- Other services
They are available at the hospital between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. On weekends, call 404-712-4366.
Emory Continuing Care Partnership
The Emory Continuing Care Partnership was created to provide the optimal patient and family experience by providing the highest quality and cost-effective care across care settings.
Discharge Planning and Post-Hospital Care
As you prepare for your discharge from the hospital, a social worker or case manager, along with your healthcare team will meet with you to discuss your clinical care needs when you leave the hospital and what your discharge options may be. Below you will find links to Frequently Asked Questions for various levels of care and services that may be options for you when you are discharged from the hospital.