Documents

• Photo ID and insurance card
• Appointment or admission letters
• A copy of your medication list
• Emergency contact names and phone numbers
• Any advance directive or healthcare proxy paperwork you have
• A small amount of cash or a card for parking and vending machines

Medications list

• A written list of all medicines, doses, and when you take them
• A list of vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medicines
• A note of any allergies or bad reactions to medicines
• Your pharmacy's name and phone number
• Ask first: whether to bring the medicines themselves in original containers

Comfort items

• A soft blanket or shawl
• A small pillow
• An eye mask and ear plugs
• Lip balm and unscented lotion
• A book, puzzle book, or magazine
• Headphones and downloaded music, podcasts, or shows
• A photo or small memento from home

Clothing

• Comfortable, loose layers (rooms can run warm or cold)
• A robe or zip-up hoodie
• Non-slip socks or slippers
• Comfortable shoes that are easy to put on
• A change of clothes for going home
• Underwear and sleepwear for each day, if staying overnight

Chargers & electronics

• Phone and charger — an extra-long cable helps
• A portable battery pack
• Tablet or e-reader and its charger
• Headphones or earbuds
• A power strip is handy for longer stays — ask first if it is allowed

Snacks (if allowed)

• Ask first: some visits and procedures require no food or drink
• A refillable water bottle
• Plain crackers or dry snacks
• Hard candies or mints
• Herbal tea bags

Questions for my healthcare team

• Your printed question list (build one with our Question Builder)
• A notebook and pen for answers and instructions
• A list of new symptoms or changes to mention
• Names of the team members you want to speak with

Caregiver items

• Snacks, water, and any medicines the caregiver needs for the day
• Phone, charger, and a book or something to pass the time
• A notebook for taking notes during conversations with the team
• Contact list for family updates
• Coins or a card for parking and the cafeteria
• A sweater — waiting areas can be cold

After-visit notes

• Space to write down discharge or after-visit instructions
• A folder for papers you are given
• A note of the next appointment date and time
• The number to call with questions once you are home

Notes