Thank G-d, things are on the mend and the patient has been discharged from the hospital. One problem, it's still Shabbat!
If possible, arrange for the patient to remain in the hospital until the end of Shabbat (hospitals are often willing to accommodate). If staying in the hospital is very difficult or there is a great need to return home on Shabbat, the patient may be transported home by a non-Jew. This is also permissible if the patient needs assistance only available at home, is especially vulnerable, requires a conducive environment to recuperate, can only receive necessary follow-up healthcare at home, or if there are small children at home who would otherwise be unattended or not cared for properly.
Family members or caregivers may accompany the patient only if the patient’s needs cannot be met without their assistance—there is no carte blanche to hitch a ride. The patient’s condition that led to the hospital stay is irrelevant; all that’s relevant is the patient’s needs upon discharge.
Let us hope and pray that our hospital visits are only for joyous occasions, and may all those who are ill be blessed with a speedy recovery!
