HOSPICE:

  WHAT THEY DO/ DON’T DO

THE IMPOTANCE OF KNOWING THE DIFFERENCE

Let me begin by saying that hospice is an invaluable service with a focus on providing quality care and comfort for individuals facing an end-of-life diagnosis. Hospice has access to durable medical equipment (beds, commodes, specialized wheelchairs, etc.) and medications that are not available through a pharmacy and are delivered directly to your home.

Unfortunately, hospice is often misunderstood. In this post I would like to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about hospice care:

 Is hospice only for people in their final days?

No, the fact is that someone can be on hospice for 6 months or longer depending upon the diagnosis and progression of the disease. Studies show that people on hospice live 12-15% longer and have a better quality of life.

Who decides when hospice is needed?

Patients, family, and physicians make this decision together. Hospice is generally called in when aggressive or life sustaining treatment is no longer a choice or option for the patient. In order for someone to be eligible for hospice, they do need to meet insurance and Medicare guidelines. It’s never too early to request an evaluation.

What type of home-hospice care will the patient receive?

The patient will be assigned a Nurse Case Manager. He or she will assign a nurse who will visit weekly and an aide who generally will visit 2-5 days a week for an average of 30 -45 mins per visit. The determination is made depending upon the needs of the patient, and can be adjusted if necessary. Patients are also assigned a social worker, spiritual support, and a volunteer (when appropriate).

Will I receive 24 hour care in my home?

No, although hospice nurses are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, they do not stay at your home. The main goal of hospice is to minimize pain, manage symptoms, provide emotional support and educate the family caregiver. Hospice houses (in patient) do offer 24 hour a day care.

When choosing hospice, it’s important to have open and clear conversations about your expectations for care, pain management, and support. Don’t be afraid to ask questions as you are not asking anything that they have not heard before. In my experience, the nurses, doctors and health aides are dedicated professionals who take pride in what they do.

Please feel free to reach out to me if you are in need of additional guidance.