Once the acute phase of the illness and treatment is complete, the patient will be transitioned back home or to the most appropriate destination for them. The discharge planning process begins on the day of admission. If the patient is unable to be discharged to their pre-admission residence, the discharge planning team will meet with the patient and their family to discuss discharge options. The patient and family will need to work with the staff to make these important care decisions. A patient and family meeting will determine the need for additional services in the home or placement in another care facility such as respite care, retirement home, rehabilitation center, convalescent care center, or home with support services to wait for long-term care. If your condition necessitates staying in the hospital until a space in a long-term care facility is available, the Discharge Planner will discuss applicable charges.