Whether you're addressing the chaos of a pandemic or awaiting a scheduled surgery, having checklists prepared for a hospital visit can often mean the difference between personal or detached care, comfort or pain—and even life or death. You need to know how to take charge of your own healthcare, advises Elizabeth Bailey, who guides you with this series of checklists to better manage, monitor, and participate in your own care, including: Before You Go, What to Bring, Master Medication List, and Discharge Plan.