Frequently Asked Questions
What is hospice care?
Hospice care is for people who have a limited life expectancy (6 months or less) and have decided to shift the focus of their care from cure to comfort. Hospice emphasizes the quality of remaining life, allowing people to stay in familiar surroundings with their loved ones while receiving the health care and support services they need (including pain and symptom management). The hospice team consists of physicians, nurses, home health aides, social workers, chaplains, volunteers, bereavement counselors, and others who support the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of patients and their families.
Where is hospice care provided?
Care is provided in a person's place of residence, in a hospital, or long-term care facility based on the patient's needs. While most patients live in their own homes or those of family members, some reside in adult family homes, assisted living facilities, or nursing homes.
Who pays for hospice? Is it covered by my insurance?
There are a number of options for payment, including Medicare, private insurance, Medicaid, and private payment. Each situation is different. Our hospice staff will work with you, your family, and your insurer to help you determine what benefits and coverage are available.
When should a decision about entering a hospice program be made, and who should make it?
You and your family should feel free to discuss hospice care with your physician or health care provider any time you think it may be appropriate or desirable during the course of a life-limiting disease. It is important at such times to discuss all care options, including hospice. Most physicians know about hospice. If your physician wants more information about hospice, it is available from staff at In-House Hospice & Palliative Care.
By law, the decision whether to elect hospice services belongs to the patient. Understandably, many people are uncomfortable with the idea of stopping all efforts to "cure" a disease. Hospice staff members are highly sensitive to these concerns and are available to discuss them with you and your family. The ultimate decision is always up to you.
If I start hospice, can I keep my physician?
Yes. Personal physicians are an important part of the hospice team approach. Your physician provides the initial diagnosis and referral, and will stay involved throughout your care. While the hospice team provides your day-to-day care, your physician continues to be available to you and your family and works with hospice staff to ensure that you get the best care possible.
How does hospice manage pain?
Hospice staff address all facets of pain – physical, emotional, and spiritual. Hospice nurses and physicians are up-to-date on the latest pain medications and procedures. In addition, counseling and spiritual support are available to help patients and their loved ones deal with emotional and spiritual pain.
Will medications prevent me from being able to talk or know what is happening?
Not usually. We work very hard to help people in our care remain pain-free, but alert. By working closely with you and your family, we are usually very successful in reaching this goal.
What happens if I outlive my 6-month prognosis? Can I still stay on hospice?
People do sometimes "outlive" their prognoses, especially if they are receiving good care and enjoying an enhanced quality of life. What happens at that point depends upon the unique circumstances of each situation. Sometimes people outlive their prognoses but their disease processes continue, so it is appropriate for them to continue on hospice service. Sometimes, however, people improve after receiving hospice care. In these cases, it may be appropriate for them to discontinue hospice care to enjoy the months or years of life they have remaining.
What happens if my condition improves?
It is not unusual for people to feel better after coming on hospice care. In some situations the disease process seems to halt and may even reverse course. Hospice staff will share their observations with you and review your care options with you should this occur.
Does Hospice provide help to families after their loved ones have died?
Yes. Hospice cares for both patients and their families. Care for bereaved family members continues after loved ones die and includes grief counseling, support groups, and written materials explaining the grief process.
