Is Hospice a Place?

Families have many decisions to make when faced with terminal illness. For many, it is the first time they have explored hospice care. Some wonder about cost or where their loved one will receive care. They may ask, “is hospice a place?” The answer is yes and no. While there are inpatient locations where hospice care can be administered, hospice is much more than a place. It’s a philosophy of care.

What is hospice care?

Hospice care begins when a patient is ready to stop pursuing curative treatment for their disease. The focus instead is shifted to caring for the person and his or her quality of life. Hospice surrounds the patient and family with a team consisting of professionals who not only address physical distress, but emotional and spiritual issues as well. Hospice care is patient-centered and driven by the needs of the patient and family.

It is important to make clear what hospice is not. Hospice is not hastening death. Instead, the focus is celebrating what time the patient has left, and making them as comfortable as possible. 

Where is hospice care provided?

Because hospice is a method of care – rather than a place – patients can access hospice care in a variety of settings. Comfort is key, so many patients and their families choose in-home hospice care. For some, that may mean receiving visits from their care team in their family home. For others, it could mean receiving care at a residential facility, such as a nursing home or assisted living facility.

Hospice care is also available at hospitals or through inpatient hospice care facilities. Inpatient hospice is provided on a temporary basis to patients in need of acute care. Once symptoms and/or pain are under control, the patient is released. 

Making the Right Choice

No matter where a patient receives hospice care, one thing is constant — the focus is squarely on the patient’s physical, spiritual, and emotional needs. If you think it might be time for hospice care, let us help.

If you are still wondering, “what is hospice care?” give us a call at 1-888-564-3405 for more information.

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