Hospice responds to the unique needs of the terminally ill by providing physical and
emotional care to dying persons and their families. The hospice philosophy seeks to allow
the terminally ill person to be at home, close to family and friends, while still under
professional medical supervision.
Most hospice patients have cancer. Others suffer from AIDS, Lou Gehrig's
disease, heart or lung disease, and other fatal conditions. Whatever disease or condition
the person may have, the role of hospice is the same. -- to provide professional medical
care, to manage pain and other symptoms, and to meet the social, emotional, and spiritual
needs of each patient and their family.
Hospice exists in the hope and belief that, though appropriate care,
patients and their families may be free to attain a degree of mental and spiritual
preparation for death that is meaningful and satisfactory to them.
Hospice care is sensitive, dignified and cost-effective health care.
Hospice care has been proven to be less costly than traditional health care, with higher
levels of patient and family satisfaction.
Hospice care is a benefit of the Medicare program and is also covered by
Medicaid in many states. Many private insurance companies, HMOs and managed care plans
offer hospice care as a benefit.
Hospice offers a program of comfort care and supportive care provided by a
team of professional and volunteers.
Hospice services include:
- Medical and Nursing Care
- Personal Care
- Homemaker Services
- Social Work Services
- Grief and other Counseling Services
- Volunteer Assistance
- Spiritual care
- Case Management
- Family Training in Patients Care