Understanding hospice care can help you make informed decisions for yourself or a loved one. Here's everything you need to know about this compassionate end-of-life care option.
To qualify for hospice, a patient must have a terminal illness and be likely to pass away within six months (if the disease runs its normal course).
Hospice care is covered by Medicare and most private insurance programs, making it accessible to those who need it.
✨ Care does not end at the six month point. A patient can receive hospice care for as long as necessary, provided a physician certifies that eligibility requirements are still met.
The goal of hospice is to help the patient make the most of the time they have left, not to try to cure the disease. Keeping the patient comfortable and pain-free is an important part of hospice care.
Hospice care is usually provided at home, allowing patients to remain in familiar, comfortable surroundings.
It can also be provided in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospitals, based on the patient's needs.
A typical hospice care team includes:
While in hospice, the patient receives intermittent nursing visits to monitor and treat symptoms. The nurse will also teach family and caregivers how to care for the patient.
Family members and caregivers play an important role in providing day-to-day care between nursing visits.
While all hospice providers have the same general philosophy, their services may differ.
💡 Tip: It is a good idea to contact more than one hospice provider to find the best fit for your needs.
Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions and guide you through this process.