WHAT IS HOSPICE?
Through friends that have had the benefit of hospice for their loved ones, I heard that it was a valuable and beneficial service. Because I had no idea of what this service entailed, how it worked, or how you qualified for the service, I did some checking.
Below are my findings:
MEDICARE PART A & B covers all hospice services including:
- Doctor services
- Nursing care
- Medical equipment (like wheelchairs, hospital beds)
- Medical supplies (like bandages, catheters)
- Drugs for symptom control and pain relief
- Hospice aide services (bathing, grooming)
- Social worker services
- Spiritual counseling
- Grief counseling for the family
Who qualifies for hospice?
- A doctor certifies that the patient has a terminal illness with a life expectancy of six months or less
- The patient chooses comfort care (palliative care) instead of curative treatment
- The patient signs a hospice election form
What I learned about hospice:
Hospice is not about giving up. It is about choosing quality of life over quantity of days. It is about dignity. It is about comfort. It is about allowing the person to spend their final days in peace, often at home surrounded by loved ones.
My experience with hospice:
My mother received hospice care at the end of her life. I did not know what to expect. What I found was a team of compassionate professionals who guided us through every step.
They managed her pain so she was comfortable.
They answered our endless questions with patience.
They provided emotional support for the entire family.
They were available 24/7 when we needed them.
I cannot imagine going through those final weeks without them.
A message to families:
If your loved one has a terminal diagnosis, ask about hospice. Do not wait until the final days. The earlier you involve hospice, the more support you receive.
It is not an easy conversation. No one wants to admit that the end is near. But hospice does not make death come sooner – it makes the time that remains more peaceful.
Do not be afraid to ask. Do not be afraid to accept help. Hospice was a gift to our family, and it might be a gift to yours too.
For more information:
Talk to your doctor. Call your local hospice provider. Visit the Medicare website.
You do not have to walk this path alone.