How do I choose a hospice?
Choosing a hospice provider can be a complex decision, especially since making the choice to start hospice care is often emotionally charged. In some cases, your physician may recommend a specific hospice foundation or agency. You might also prefer to compare a few different providers to determine the best hospice agency for your needs. Here’s a guide on how to choose a hospice provider that suits you.
When selecting a hospice provider, it's important to consider the services they offer. While Medicare requirements ensure that most hospice providers offer the same basic services, there may be differences in care philosophy, extra services, and specialty services provided for patients with specific conditions. It's essential to understand the range of services provided to ensure they align with your needs and preferences.
Hospice care is primarily intended for patients with a terminal illness who have ceased treatment and have a life expectancy of less than six months. However, patients with serious illnesses who don't meet these specific requirements may qualify for palliative care. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients, even if they are still pursuing curative treatments.
Basic Medicare rules require hospice agencies to provide four levels of care:
Routine home care: This level of care is provided for patients with a terminal illness who have been diagnosed with six months or less to live. It covers symptom management, including pain management in some cases. Most hospice care is delivered in the comfort of the patient's home.
General inpatient care: In certain situations, patients may need to be temporarily admitted to a hospital or inpatient facility for more intensive care. General inpatient care ensures that patients receive the necessary support and treatment 24 hours a day, 7 days a week if needed.
Continuous home care: During emergency or crisis events experienced by the patient, hospice agencies can provide continuous home care. This level of care ensures that patients receive round-the-clock attention and support during times of increased medical needs.
Respite care: Caregivers play a crucial role in supporting patients receiving hospice care, but they may need occasional breaks to rest and recharge. Respite care offers temporary 24/7 care in the home or at an inpatient facility, allowing family caregivers to take a break from their regular caregiving responsibilities for up to five days.
If you're using Medicare to pay for hospice care, all benefits related to relieving symptoms of the terminal illness are covered. In addition to the four levels of care, some specific covered services you might receive include nursing care (with 24-hour access to a nurse), access to a social worker who oversees your case, assistance from a hospice aide, physical therapy, dietary counseling and assistance with meeting nutritional needs, spiritual counseling, bereavement services including grief counseling for family members, and medical equipment and supplies such as wheelchairs, walkers, and bed pads.
When considering hospice providers, the location of the agency is an important factor to consider. It's generally more convenient to work with a hospice agency in your local area, as it allows for easier access to the care team and minimizes travel time for visits and support. By narrowing your search to hospice agencies nearby, you can ensure that the necessary support and services are readily available when you need them.
By taking the time to understand the services provided by hospice agencies and considering the location of the provider, you can make a more informed decision when choosing a hospice provider. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider and ask any questions you may have to ensure that you find the best hospice agency that suits your needs and preferences during this important stage of life.
If you're seeking compassionate and comprehensive hospice care, consider Mountain View Hospice. Our dedicated team provides a range of services to support patients and their families during this challenging time. Contact us today to discuss how we can meet your unique needs.
