An unplanned ER visit or hospital admission goes more smoothly with a bag already packed, rather than trying to assemble one while unwell or in pain.
What to include
- A copy of your health care proxy, living will, and HIPAA release
- Current medication list and insurance cards
- Phone charger
- A change of comfortable clothes and basic toiletries
- Reading glasses, hearing aid batteries, or other daily-use items you'd miss immediately
Keep the bag in a consistent, known location — by the door or near where your medical alert base station sits — so it's grab-and-go, even for whoever might be helping you.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Discuss your specific medical situation and any advance directives with your physician.