Frequently Asked Questions About Hospice
What is hospice?
Who can receive hospice care?
Who pays for hospice care?
Who are the hospice team members?
Does hospice only take care of people with cancer?
Is hospice affiliated with any religious organization?
What is hospice?
Hospice is a concept of health care that provides holistic services for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the terminally ill and their families. Our care is designed to alleviate pain and control symptoms with expertise and compassion. In addition to physical care, hospice provides spiritual, social and emotional support. Hospice also provides Bereavement Counseling to the family for a year after the death of a loved one.
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Who can receive hospice care?
Any person in the advanced stages of a terminal illness is eligible for hospice care if the following criteria is met:
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The physician thinks the patient will live six months or less if the disease runs it’s normal course
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Aggressive treatments are no longer working to provide relief for the patient
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The patient, family and physician agree and understand that the focus of hospice is comfort care and control of symptoms rather than curative care.
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Who pays for hospice care?
Hospice is covered under Medicare Part A (hospital insurance). Coverage provides comprehensive medical care related to the terminal illness. It includes most medications, medical supplies and any equipment deemed necessary by the hospice team. It also covers payment for visits to the patient by the hospice team members.
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Who are the hospice team members?
The team includes doctors, nurses, certified nursing assistants, social workers, spiritual caregivers and volunteers. They are all involved in coordinating the care of the patient and meet regularly to insure that the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of the patient and family are met.
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Does hospice only take care of people with cancer?
No. Hospice serves those who are at the end stage of any disease, including diseases of the heart and lungs, AIDS, renal disease and neurologic disease such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
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Is hospice affiliated with any religious organization?
No. While some churches and religious organizations have started hospices (sometimes in connection with local hospitals), hospices serve a broad community and do not require patients to adhere to any particular set of beliefs.
*Life Choice Hospice is committed to understanding and respecting the customs and rituals of all faiths. Our chaplains minister to all patients and families by providing spiritual guidance and support. They also provide Bereavement Care through personal counseling, Memorial Services and informational mailings.
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