What happens when your doctor suggests hospice? Hospice is usually for people regardless of age who have a terminal illness and their live expectancy is less than 6 months. Hospice is not only for patients with cancer, but also for those with dementia, cardiac disease, kidney failure, Alzheimer’s and others diseases that are reaching the end stage. Hospice can increase the patient’s quality of life by supporting them in redirecting their time and energy from hospitals and treatments to the people and activities that are most important to them. Hospice can also be an enormous help to the patient and their caregivers as they deal with the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional changes related to the progression of the illness. Most hospice teams consist of a Physician, Registered Nurse, Social Worker, Chaplain, Volunteers and Bereavement Counselors. Some teams will also include a dietician along with physical, speech and occupational therapist. Patients can also continue to see their own physician if they prefer. Team members should be readily available to the patient and their family members for any concerns or assistance that is needed. Hospice can be provided to patients in their homes, nursing homes, independent living, assisted living or medical facilities. Most major insurance carriers and Medicare provide hospice coverage. Check with your insurance provider for accurate policy coverage. Patient care will be provided from an interdisciplinary approach involving input from all of the team members. Hospice physicians will write the orders for all medications and medical equipment and have them delivered to the patient’s home. Nurse case managers will visit 2-3 times per week for evaluations and assessment or as needed, but should also be available by phone. Other nurses will visit more often and handle routine care needs. Most hospices will provide Bereavement counseling services for up to one year after the loss of friend or family member. Hospice will honor the patient’s wishes and allow them to take control of their lives.
Hospice Help for Texans
