RT Journal
A1 Goodman DM, Burke AE, Livingston EH
T1 DIscharge planning
JF JAMA
JO JAMA
YR 2013
FD January 23
VO 309
IS 4
SP 406
OP 406
DO 10.1001/jama.2012.145192
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jama.2012.145192
AB 
The process of discharge planning prepares you to leave the hospital. It should begin soon after you are admitted to the hospital and at least several days before your planned discharge. The January 23/30, 2013, issue of JAMA has several articles on readmissions after discharge from the hospital.