How often have you come across this question? Are you confused about how hospice can help treat a terminally ill patient?

Sometimes when you or your loved ones are suffering from a terminal illness, your doctor may decide that the treatment to slow down the progress of the disease is no longer working and can make a referral for hospice care. But how does hospice care works?

Some people may say that using hospice means they are giving up on their life. But this is not true. Hospice is not only for those who are dying. Many families are often surprised to learn that their loved ones were eligible for hospice care much earlier.

Who is Eligible For Hospice care?

To be eligible for hospice, a doctor must certify that the patient meets the following requirement:

  • Is suffering from a terminal illness
  • Has six months or less to live

However, if the patient is not eligible for hospice or they want to pursue curative treatment, they may choose palliative care.

The Hospice Team

Hospice is an interdisciplinary model of care. It is aligned with the patient’s requirements and needs. The hospice team often consists of highly trained doctors, nurse practitioners, volunteers, spiritual professionals, and psychosocial experts who work in harmony to provide comfort to the patient and improve his quality of life.

  • Primary Care Physician
    The primary care physician is your family doctor who will help determine the patient’s need and candidacy for hospice. He can stay on to help provide care for your loved one.
  • Registered Nurse
    The registered nurse will visit the patient twice or thrice a week or more if required. They ensure that the patients’ needs are met in the best possible manner.
  • Hospice Medical Director
    The hospice medical director is responsible to create the place of care for your terminally ill loved one. They make sure goals are met by the care team.
  • Volunteers
    The hospice volunteers help the patient and their primary caregiver by assisting with household tasks, preparing meals, and providing companionship.
  • Home Health Aide
    The home health aides help the patient with light around-the-home tasks, and can help educate the family members on how to provide the best care to your loved ones.

What are The Benefits of Early Access To Hospice Care?

Getting admission in hospice care earlier helps patients and their family members receive all the benefits of hospice care. As soon as a person is admitted to hospice care, he begins to receive care from expert professionals including hospice aide, qualified nurses, social workers, volunteers, and experienced doctors.

Also, remember that hospice is not always a permanent choice. If at some point in time you change your mind, you can stop hospice care and start back on your curative treatments. Some people may even quit the service with the option of returning later.

Inspiration Hospice offers individuals and families a variety of hospice care services that provide assistance to all ages. At Inspiration Hospice, we believe that nothing is more important than delivering compassionate and loving care to our patients and families.

Get The Care You Need. Call (385) 247-2020 To Know More About Our Hospice Care Services.