When someone has a terminal illness or progressive illness, the focus shifts at some point from "trying to cure the disease" to "managing your care." That's what hospice care is all about.

Hospice care is an interdisciplinary approach that focuses on symptom management, quality of life, and coordination of care. It's designed to help people enjoy the remainder of their life and as much as possible. It's also designed to support the emotional and spiritual needs of the dying—and their family members—throughout the end-of-life process.

Here are answers to some of the most important questions you may have about how hospice care works.

1. When is hospice appropriate?

Typically, hospice is in order when a patient has a terminal illness that's expected to end in death within six months, the patient's health is in a clear decline, and the patient is ready to focus on "comfort care" instead of curing the condition or keeping it from progressing. Many people mistakenly believe that hospice care is only for cancer patients. In reality, end-of-life care is for anybody who needs it.

2. Where is hospice care administered?

In essence, hospice is wherever the patient happens to be. While there are facilities and hospital wards designed for end-of-life care, the most important part of this service is the needs of the patient. If the patient wants to be at home, the care team will try to arrange that. However, the patient may have to be moved to a hospital if the condition becomes unbearably painful.

3. How can hospice care help the patient's family?

Family members are usually involved in their loved one's care as much as possible. A team member can teach the primary caretakers how to assist and care for the patient. The team can also arrange for respite care when taking care of the patient becomes overwhelming. The patient's care team can also help the patient's family members accept the patient's coming death and work through their grief.

4. Is hospice care expensive?

Many people don't investigate hospice services because they worry that it will be a financial strain on their families. However, end-of-life care is generally covered by most insurance programs, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Is hospice care right for your situation? If you have an illness that is only going to get worse or you're caring for a loved one in that condition, find out more about hospice services today.

Share