Frequently Asked Questions
What is hospice?
Hospice is a philosophy and delivery of care for patients with a terminal illness who have a life expectancy of six months or less and who choose not to seek (or to discontinue) treatment to cure their illness. The goal of hospice care is to make the patient as comfortable as possible by relieving pain and symptoms of the disease and to support the patient and family emotionally and spiritually during the final months of life.
When is the right time to ask about hospice?
It is best for family members to share their wishes regarding end of life decisions long before it becomes an immediate concern. This can greatly reduce stress when the time for hospice is needed. By having these discussions in advance, patients and families are not forced into uncomfortable situations. Instead, patients can make an educated decision that includes the advice and input of family members and loved ones.
Does choosing hospice mean giving up?
While it’s true that hospice care is for patients with 6 months to live or less, we do not view the decision to pursue hospice care as “giving up.” Rather, we see it as a way of saying yes to maintaining an element of control and living each day to the fullest. Time and time again, patients and families tell us that they wish they sought the resources of hospice care much sooner in the process.
Where is hospice care provided?
Hospice care takes place in the home.
For some, “home” may mean a house or an apartment. For others, it may be some form of extended care facility, such as a nursing home or assisted living community.
The majority of hospice patients live in their own home with the help of a family member or friend who serves as the “primary caregiver.” This caregiver works closely with the hospice team to provide for the patient’s daily needs. In extended care facilities, hospice teams create a partnership with the staff and family, just as they would with the family in the home.
In addition to home care, hospice provides short-term inpatient hospital care when necessary to manage the symptoms of the illness. During these times, the hospice team remains involved and helps the patient transition back to the home environment as quickly as possible.
What does the hospice admission process involve?
One of the first things the hospice program will do is contact the patient’s physician to make sure he or she agrees that hospice care is appropriate for this patient. The patient or legally assigned individual of healthcare decisions will be asked to sign consent and insurance forms. These are similar to the forms patients sign when they enter a hospital.
How many family members or friends does it take to care for a patient at home?
There’s no set number. One of the first things we will do is prepare an individualized care plan that will address the amount of caregiving needed by the patient. Our staff will then visit regularly and are always accessible to answer medical questions.
What if I need help after the office closes or on weekends?
Our staff is on call for emergencies or concerns 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. If you require more care than can be provided in the home, skilled nursing homes are often an option.