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Return to Originating Hospital
The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) Return to Originating Hospital program, sometimes called repatriation, is the process of returning patients from UMMC to the hospital that originally admitted them. Though it can happen in many circumstances, it usually applies to patients who came to UMMC for diagnostic evaluation or highly specialized care they could not receive locally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Return to Originating Hospital program (RTOH)?
As soon as you no longer need specialized care, the University of Maryland physician overseeing your care will start a discussion regarding transfer in connection with the physician at your original hospital.
Why do I have to return to my original hospital? Could I stay at UMMC for the remainder of my care?
We recognize that moving from one hospital to another can be stressful for you and your family. This program enables you to receive the remaining of your care closer to home at your original hospital.
Who arranges the program?
Many staff members help make the RTOH program a success, including the physician(s) from UMMC and your original referring hospital, case managers and charge nurses. The entire care team plays a role in communicating with you and your family along the way.
How will I know if I qualify?
Within a few days of your arrival at UMMC, a member of your care team will let you or your family know that you are eligible for the Return to Originating Hospital program.
The timing of when you will be transferred will depend on your condition and when your physician, and the physician at your original hospital, feel you are clinically ready.
The UMMC care team will keep you and your family informed with regular updates.
Will my insurance cover the Return to Originating Hospital program?
Repatriation programs like Return to Originating Hospital are often covered by most major insurance providers. We will seek such authorization from your insurance company.
What happens after I am placed on the Return to Originating Hospital program list?
Sometimes the process can take a little while. We want to ensure everything is in place at your original referral hospital before beginning the transfer process. This could mean waiting for a bed to become available at the hospital closer to your home. It also allows UMMC time to ensure the team there is ready for your arrival.
Other times, this process can happen quickly, and you may be notified the same day as the transfer.
Is it safe to use the Return to Originating Hospital program?
UMMC will only move you back to your original hospital if the physician in charge of your care feels it is safe and the physician at the receiving hospital can meet your care needs.
How will I get back to my original referral hospital?
UMMC will arrange transportation in accordance with your medical needs and required level of care. This could include ambulance or private transport services.
I have more questions about the Return to Originating Hospital program who do I talk to?
If you have further questions about this process, please speak with a member of your care team such as your UMMC physician, charge nurse or case manager.