Hospice in the spotlight, thanks for former President Carter
If you follow the news, you might be aware that former President Jimmy Carter recently elected Hospice Care at home. This was announced on February 18, 2023. As of the writing of this blog, it’s been 60 days since that announcement that read, in part: “After a series of short hospital stays, former US President Jimmy Carter today decided to spend his remaining time at home with his family and receive hospice care instead of additional medical intervention,” it went on “He has the full support of his family and his medical team.”
This public election of hospice care is an opportunity to change perceptions- While many people have a passing knowledge of hospice, most think of it as something you choose when a patient is actively dying. This just isn’t the case, as hospice is a 6-month benefit under Medicare. Unfortunately, in Butte County, the average patient is only on services for about 40 days, which is about half the average in the state of California. The fact that President Carter has been on hospice care for over 60 days sets a great example of what hospice is about: Taking control and choosing how to live the remainder of your life when given a terminal diagnosis.
When a loved one is facing a terminal illness, it can be overwhelming to think about the next steps in their care. Hospice care is a compassionate approach to end-of-life care that focuses on quality of life and comfort for patients and their families. If you are considering hospice care for your loved one, here’s what you need to know.
What is Hospice Care?
Hospice care is a specialized type of healthcare for people who are in the last stages of a terminal illness or condition. The goal of hospice care is to provide comfort and support to patients and their families during this difficult time. Hospice care focuses on managing symptoms, such as pain and nausea, and providing emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families.
When is Hospice Care Appropriate?
Hospice care is appropriate for people who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness or condition and are no longer seeking curative treatment. Hospice care is typically recommended when a person’s life expectancy is six months or less. However, patients can receive hospice care for longer periods if their condition remains stable or improves.
What Services are Provided by Hospice Care?
Hospice care provides a wide range of services to patients and their families, including:
- Pain and symptom management: Hospice care focuses on managing the physical symptoms of a terminal illness, such as pain, nausea, and shortness of breath. The hospice team works closely with patients and their families to ensure that their symptoms are under control.
- Emotional and spiritual support: Hospice care provides emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families, including counseling and support groups.
- Assistance with daily activities: Hospice care provides assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.
- Respite care: Hospice care provides short-term care for patients to give their primary caregivers a break.
- Bereavement support: Hospice care provides support to families and loved ones after the patient has passed away.
Who Provides Hospice Care?
Hospice care is provided by a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers. The hospice team works closely with patients and their families to create a personalized care plan that meets their individual needs and goals.
How is Hospice Care Paid For?
Hospice care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. Patients and their families may be responsible for a small copayment for certain services.
The Decision to Focus on Quality of Life
Making the Decision for Hospice Care Making the decision to pursue hospice care for a loved one can be difficult. However, hospice care can provide comfort and support to both the patient and their family during this difficult time. Hospice care focuses on quality of life and helps patients and their families make the most of the time they have left together.
If you are considering hospice care for your loved one, talk to their healthcare provider about your options. The hospice team can work with you to create a care plan that meets your loved one’s needs and goals.
In Conclusion Hospice care is a compassionate approach to end-of-life care that focuses on comfort and support for patients and their families. Hospice care provides a wide range of services to help manage symptoms, provide emotional and spiritual support, and assist with daily activities. If you are considering hospice care for your loved one, talk to their healthcare provider about your options. Hospice care can provide comfort and support during this difficult time and help you make the most of the time you have left together.
