Can I decide not to return to hospital?
A person with capacity can usually decide not to return to hospital, but they need a clear home care and emergency plan.
Usually, yes. If you have decision-making capacity, you can usually decide that you do not want to return to hospital. This is separate from voluntary assisted dying.
The important part is planning what will happen instead, especially if symptoms worsen at home.
General information: This page gives general information for people in Australia. Your rights and documents may differ by state or territory. Talk with your treating team before relying on a no-hospital plan.
Make the plan specific
Ask your doctor or palliative care team to write down:
- what symptoms can be managed at home
- which medicines are available
- who to call during the day and overnight
- when an ambulance should or should not be called
- whether there is an advance care directive or resuscitation plan
- what to do if family members disagree.
The plan can change
Choosing not to return to hospital does not mean you can never change your mind. Some people want hospital care for a reversible problem, such as a fracture, while still not wanting intensive care or CPR.
When to get help now
Call the palliative care team or doctor if symptoms are not controlled or carers cannot cope. Call 000 if there is an immediate life-threatening emergency and no care plan says this is an expected part of dying at home.