There are numerous factors that go into when a patient should be discharged from the hospital.  Unfortunately, one of the biggest factors is whether that patient’s insurer will continue to pay the cost of his hospitalization.  When a patient believes he is ready to be discharged, and when his insurer believes he should be discharged, are often two very different questions.  There are many considerations, including that an extended stay in the hospital could cost a patient more money, and risk exposing him to infection and other hospital-borne illnesses.  If you are facing a premature discharge, this article can give you some general steps for appealing that decision.