Family caregivers are most reluctant to choose, or even discuss hospice care. Nobody wants to think about losing a loved one; which makes the topic of “hospice care” so difficult to think or even talk about. Whether or not a loved one is enrolled in hospice care, his/her terminal illness will still progress. Choosing hospice care does not speed this up, rather it prolongs the patient’s quality of life. And hospice care is a benefit under Medicare, Medicaid, and some private insurances so why not take advantage of it?
Why hospice?
Nearing the end of life does not necessarily mean the patient is close to death. While hospice care is for patients with a life-limiting illness that should the illness run it’s normal course, the patient has a life expectancy of 6 months or less. A patient must meet hospice eligibility requirements set by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. You can see a list of general eligibility requirements here.
We’ve said it so many times, hospice does not hasten death! Rather, when a patient’s physical, psychological, spiritual, financial, and social symptoms are properly managed, a patient can live for much longer. If hospice care is started early in the disease process, a patient receives more benefits!
Beginning hospice care early in the terminal diagnosis, ensure all symptoms are expertly managed which improves quality of life and can even improve quantity of life. The patient receives care from nurses, aides, social workers, and chaplains in the location of their choosing. Many patients receive care in their own home or in an assisted living facility, skilled nursing facility, or the Lucy Smith King Care Center. Hospice care is considered to be the ideal model for the most compassionate, highest quality care for those nearing the end of life. It offers the services and support that most Americans want when facing a life-limiting illness.
Benefits of Hospice Care
When a physician tells you “there’s nothing more than can be done”, remember that with hospice care, there is always more to be done! In addition to the regular visits by our clinicians who are experts in pain and symptom management, prescription medications related to the patient’s primary diagnosis, durable medical equipment, and medical supplies needed to care for the patient, all at no cost!
Who pays for hospice?
Hospice care is a benefit under Medicare, Medicaid, and some private insurances!
Plus St. Anthony’s Hospice does not turn away patients based on inability to pay.
The most important thing to remember when deciding on hospice care for you or a loved one is you are choosing to do more. Hospice care is more care and more comfort which leads to more quality time with your loved ones. To refer yourself or a loved one to St. Anthony’s Hospice care, please call us at (270) 826-2326 or fill out our referral form here.
