Understanding the Hospice Process

What is hospice?

Hospice is for those persons who have a life expectancy of six months or less and can no longer benefit from curative treatment. Most hospice patients receive care at home and an interdisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, counselors, therapists, social workers, aides and volunteers provides treatment. The hospice team provides medical care to the patient and support services to the patient and to the patient’s family and friends. Hospice does not attempt to cure, but rather to control pain and other symptoms in order to enable the patient to live as fully and comfortably as possible. Hospice addresses the medical, emotional, psychological and spiritual needs of the patients and their loved ones. Hospice is provided seven days a week. Patients routinely receive periodic in-home services of a nurse, home health aide, social worker, volunteer and other members of the hospice team.

When is hospice appropriate?

Deciding to utilize hospice can be a difficult and personal decision to make. Therefore, the patient, family, and medical practitioner should discuss hospice as an option and decide when it is appropriate. Patients receiving hospice care generally have a life expectancy of six months or less however if the patient improves dramatically, it is always possible to discontinue hospice services and return to treatment for his or her disease.

What services does hospice provide?

The hospice staff is highly trained in making sure patients are comfortable and that all medical and emotional needs are appropriately met. Generally, an interdisciplinary team including physicians, nurses, social workers, counselors, clergy, and volunteers work closely together to ensure each patient is receiving comprehensive care.

Services provided may include:

• Physician and nursing service
• Pain and symptom control
• Spiritual care
• Medical supplies
• Home health aide assistance
• Social work and counseling services
• Bereavement services for family members
• Respite care to allow family caregivers to rest and rejuvenate
• Family conferences to provide updates, stay informed, and express any concerns
• Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.