Going to Hospital | Northern Beaches PD

Your PD Hospital Kit

Research has found that three out of four people with Parkinson’s do not receive medications on time when staying in the hospital, and that when this occurs two out of three will experience worrying complications.

The info on this page is designed to help you be ready for a hospital visit- planned or not.

Each PD Hospital Kit contains

Letter from your GP
Your medical history, meds, GP and specialist details
Medical Alert card
Med to be avoided
What Matters to you document
A week's worth of your meds in their original packaging clearly showing dosage.

To get the best benefit complete the following to do list.

Your to-do list

Buy or reuse a soft lunch box - $8 from supermarkets.
Download and complete the files below.
Add copies of documents to your soft lunch box.
Add a week's worth of your meds in their original packaging clearly showing dosage.
Keep your PD Hospital Kit in an easily accessible place, eg by the front door.
Tell your family, friends and any carers where to find it.
If you can, find an advocate — a loved one or friend, who can take charge of communication with hospital staff during a stay.
Immediately contact your neurologist to let him or her know about your hospital stay.

1. Letter from your GP - blank

A letter from your GP or Neuro with an emphasis on the need for your meds to be given on time - every time, and a list of your meds, can help a lot to keep your Parkinson's symptoms as controlled as possible.

Download a fill-able one here and take it to your next visit.
Make a few copies when it is complete.

4. Medical Alert Cards

This file can be used to print small cards for yourself and your carer (partner). They can be laminated and kept in your purse/wallet, in the car.

2. A list with your medical history, meds, GP and specialists

Complete this list and make multiple copies to give to medical staff at the hospital. Update it each year if necessary.

5. “What Matters To You?” document

The “What Matters To You?” document captures important individualised
information about you. It is completed by you, your family and carers, and kept at the bedside, in your patient’s notes or care plan.

3. Medications to be avoided

There are many medications that are contraindicated in Parkinson’s Disease. This list is so important. Please fill in your information, check it with your neuro and print several copies. Give them to any doctors or dentists that will be treating you. Keep a copy in your wallet/ purse and in your car.