Discharge planning often includes which administrative step?

Discharge planning often includes which administrative step?

• A. Scheduling follow-up appointments
• B. Authorization of insurance for services
• C. Selecting a new primary care physician
• D. Providing only discharge instructions

Answer: (B)

Discharge planning centers on coordinating what happens after the patient goes home, including ensuring that post-discharge care is approved and paid for. The administrative step most central is obtaining authorization from the patient’s insurer to cover upcoming services. This ensures post-discharge needs like home health, equipment, or follow-up care are funded and available, reducing delays in recovery. Scheduling follow-up appointments is part of care coordination but not the payer authorization itself; selecting a new primary care physician isn’t necessary for everyone; and giving discharge instructions is essential but focuses on care instructions rather than securing coverage.

Discharge planning centers on coordinating what happens after the patient goes home, including ensuring that post-discharge care is approved and paid for. The administrative step most central is obtaining authorization from the patient’s insurer to cover upcoming services. This ensures post-discharge needs like home health, equipment, or follow-up care are funded and available, reducing delays in recovery. Scheduling follow-up appointments is part of care coordination but not the payer authorization itself; selecting a new primary care physician isn’t necessary for everyone; and giving discharge instructions is essential but focuses on care instructions rather than securing coverage.