What you need to know
Hospice is an 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
It is important to note that care does not end at the six month point. A patient in the final phase of life can receive hospice care for as long as necessary, provided a physician certifies that the eligibility requirements are still met.
Hospice focuses on comfort and quality of life
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
It can also be provided in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and hospitals, based on the patient’s needs.
Hospice is provided by trained professionals
A typical hospice care team includes trained doctors, nurses, home care aides and other health care providers; a social worker; a chaplain; and possibly others.
Hospice does not provide 24-hour in-home care
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.
Not all hospices are the same
While all hospice providers have the same general philosophy, their services may differ. It is a good idea to contact more than one hospice provider to find the best fit for your needs.