FAQs
Hospice care is specialized medical care focused on enhancing quality of life for individuals with terminal illnesses. It provides comfort and support, rather than cure, during the final stages of life.
Patients with a terminal illness with a life expectancy of six months or less, as certified by a physician, typically qualify for hospice care.
Hospice care can be provided at home, in nursing homes, hospice centers, or hospitals, depending on the patient's needs and preferences.
Hospice services include pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, medical equipment and supplies, 24/7 access to care, and bereavement support for families.
Hospice teams specialize in managing pain and symptoms using medications, therapies, and other approaches tailored to the patient's needs and preferences.
Yes, patients can continue to see their regular doctors for unrelated conditions. The hospice team works with the patient's doctors to coordinate care.
Yes, patients can leave hospice care at any time to pursue curative treatments or for other reasons. They can also return to hospice care if needed.
If a patient's condition improves or stabilizes, they may no longer meet the criteria for hospice care and can explore other treatment options.
Hospice provides training, respite care, and emotional support to caregivers to help them care for their loved ones and themselves.
Hospice care is typically covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. Coverage includes medications, equipment, and services related to the terminal illness.
Hospice provides bereavement support, counseling, and resources to help families cope with grief and loss.
