Your admission to the hospital for treatment can be intimidating, and knowing what to pack for the hospital may be confusing. There are a few things you can bring to make yourself feel more comfortable. Of course, you always need to check the policies of the hospital that lay restriction on bringing some of the items from outside the facility. However, your are advised to bring the following items:

• Your medical aid scheme membership card
• Proof of your identity (the patient) as well as the principal member of the medical aid scheme (should they differ). If a patient is under the age of 18, he/she must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, who will be required to give written consent for administration of anesthetic as well as to accept liability for the account.
• All X-rays and/or blood test results relating to your condition
• Toiletries, should you be staying overnight
• Any chronic medication which you take on a regular basis
• Sleep wear, slippers/shoes should you be hospitalised for a couple of days
• Comfortable clothing and
• Reading material

If the patient is an infant or a young child, the following items are recommended:

• A favourite toy or blanket
• Nappies and special toiletries for babies and toddlers, if required