Hospice Care FAQs
There are many questions and common misconceptions about hospice care. Below, we answer some of the most common inquiries to help you better understand what hospice care is and how it can benefit you and your loved ones.
We’re here to answer your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hospice Care:
What is hospice care?
Hospice care is a specialized approach to care focused on providing comfort and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with life-limiting illnesses. Rather than focusing on curing the disease, hospice care prioritizes managing symptoms, alleviating pain, and offering emotional and spiritual support to both the patient and their family.
Hospice care is centered on the needs of the patient and their family, ensuring that care is personalized and comprehensive. It's important to note that hospice is not about hastening death but about making the most of the time remaining.Is hospice only for people who are dying?
Hospice care is designed for individuals who have a limited life expectancy, typically six months or less as determined by a healthcare provider. While hospice care is for those who are nearing the end of life, it doesn’t mean the patient will necessarily pass away within six months. Instead, it means that they have a condition where death is a realistic possibility.Who is best suited for hospice care?
Hospice care is best suited for patients who are facing serious, life-limiting medical conditions that impact their day-to-day living. These patients may experience physical pain, emotional distress, or spiritual struggles due to their condition. Hospice care is especially beneficial for those dealing with diseases like cancer, heart disease, COPD, and advanced dementia. Patients who prioritize comfort and quality of life over curative treatments are ideal candidates for hospice care.Is choosing hospice care the same as "giving up"?
Absolutely not. This is a common misconception. Opting for hospice care is about focusing on comfort and quality of life rather than pursuing treatments that may no longer be effective. Hospice care allows patients to spend their remaining time in the best way possible, often with their loved ones, rather than enduring the side effects of aggressive treatments.Should we wait for the doctor to suggest hospice?
While you can wait for a doctor’s suggestion, many families find it helpful to bring up the conversation themselves. Sometimes, doctors may hesitate to discuss hospice care until very late in the process. If you think your loved one could benefit from the support that hospice offers, it’s a good idea to start the discussion early. If you believe your loved one could pass away in the next six to twelve months, ask your doctor if hospice care might be appropriate.
Who pays for hospice care?
Worries about the cost of hospice care are common, but most patients have several options to cover these costs. If the patient has Medicare and meets the eligibility requirements, Medicare often covers nearly all costs related to hospice care, including services, medical supplies, and medications for pain management. Private insurance and Medicaid can also cover hospice care, but it’s essential to check with your provider for specific details.Can you leave hospice care once you've started?
Yes, patients can leave hospice care for various reasons, such as deciding to pursue aggressive treatment again or showing signs of recovery. If a patient no longer meets the six-month prognosis, they can be discharged from hospice and may return later if their condition worsens.Is hospice a place?
Hospice is not a physical location; it’s a service. Hospice care is provided wherever the patient calls home, whether that’s a private residence, a nursing home, or an assisted living facility.Does hospice only care for cancer patients?
No, hospice care is for anyone with a life-limiting illness, not just cancer patients. This includes patients with heart disease, respiratory conditions, neurological disorders, and more.Is hospice only for housebound or bedridden people?
Hospice care is for anyone with a serious illness, regardless of whether they are bedridden or not. Hospice services are provided wherever the patient lives, including their own home, long-term care facilities, and hospitals.Does hospice medicate patients so they just sleep all the time?
Hospice care is about managing pain and symptoms effectively. The goal is to keep patients comfortable and able to enjoy their remaining time, not to sedate them unnecessarily. Proper pain management is provided by experienced professionals who ensure that patients remain alert and comfortable.When is the best time to start hospice care?
Many families express regret that they didn’t start hospice care sooner. Hospice care can significantly improve both the quality of life and potentially even the lifespan of a patient. Ideally, hospice care should begin several months before the expected end-of-life to allow patients and families to fully benefit from the services offered.