The biggest myth about Hospice care is that it means end of life, but that's not necessarily correct. The goal of Hospice care is to make the senior’s life as comfortable as possible.
So, what does Hospice do?
Hospice has visiting nurses come to the house, which is really a huge benefit to the family. This allows families not to worry about taking their loved ones to the doctor’s office, unless necessary. Hospice also provides pain management services and emotional support for the senior and the entire family.
Another benefit is you do not have to be in a nursing home or a hospice care center to receive hospice care. If you still live in your home and receive Hospice care but now you feel you need to transition to an assisted living community, no need to worry, Hospice care will continue to see you in your current living situation. Hospice care can happen anywhere.
How do I get the process started?
To qualify for hospice under Medicare, you must be referred by your doctor. Many people remain in hospice care for six months or longer. After six months, the patient will be assessed to determine if they should remain in Hospice care or not. If their health is improving, they can transition to a lower level of care; should their health declined, they will have to be recertified to continue in hospice care through Medicare.
You do not have to give up all your other medical treatments once you go into hospice care. All hospice companies have their own policies, but normally hospice is there to make your life more comfortable, not hinder it. Here are some other services that is provided:
Nursing care, (including 24-hour access to a nurse.)
Access to a social worker who oversees your case.
Assistance from a hospice aide.
As well as Spiritual counseling and grief counseling for family members.
How do I pay for Hospice Care?
Hospice care costs are covered mostly by Medicare. Also, most insurance plans, and HMOs have hospice coverage. Medical equipment such as a hospital bed, wheelchairs or walkers and medical supplies like oxygen, bandages etc., are also covered.
Make sure you find out what you will be responsible for paying for. Its best to understand this before signing anything.
How do you choose the right hospice provider?
Ask around, check with your doctor, the nurses, and family and friends. We have also provided below a couple of companies that we know very well and refer our families to.
So the truth about Hospice care is to make the patients life as comfortable as possible by focusing on controlling pain and addressing all medical symptoms the patient may have. Also, by providing comfort to the patient and their loved ones. The overall goal is to maintain or improve the quality of life for the patient.