FAQ
What is Hospice Care?
Hospice care is a specialized type of care which focuses on the patients' and the caregivers’ well being and comfort as opposed to treating or curing the illness the patient is suffering from. Hospice care provides compassionate care for people in the last stages of irreversible illnesses, so that they may live as fully and comfortably as possible.
The hospice philosophy accepts death as the final stage of life. While it affirms life, it does not try to hasten or postpone death. A qualified team of professionals work together to manage symptoms so that a person’s last days may be spent with dignity and quality, surrounded by their loved ones. Hospice care is very empowering in that it gives the person and the family the autonomy to control the outcome of one’s life.
When Should Hospice Care Begin?
Generally, hospice care should start when a person facing an incurable illness has a life expectancy of six months or less. Sometimes the idea of hospice care is scary and passive since it bears the notion of “six months or less.” However, commencing hospice care does not start a six-month countdown. Moreover, hospice care can be discontinued for an active treatment if the patient and the family wish so.
Hospice care should at least be considered and asked about if the normal treatment of the illness has become ineffective or the patient and family do not wish to seek aggressive treatment, for example, in case of metastasized cancer.
What kinds of insurance do you accept?
Hospice care is covered under Medicare Part A. Certain areas of Medic-Aid also cover hospice care. If you qualify for none of the two plans, don't worry. Most private insurance plans also cover expenses associated with hospice care. Our social workers can be help you determine coverage and help with identify community resources in address the financial aspects of hospice care.