Despite all the advancements of modern health care and medicine, death is inescapable, however, people do have options as to the services they use near the end of their lives. In the United States, what began as a volunteer-driven service focused on improving the last days of those people who were dying, either alone or in a health-care facility, has become a major part of the health care system. Hospice is by far, the best option for those in the last stages of life, not only for those who are dying but for their families as well.
The basic services provided by all hospice facilities providing compassionate hospice care are identical, as they all must meet the guidelines set forth by Medicare. Some of these differences include where the hospice car takes place. Hospice care can be done at the patient’s home, in a hospital or in a nursing home. Few hospices have in-patient services, therefore, most people receive hospice services through an independent entity. Ideally the hospice facility should have the following staff: a full-time Medical Director, a Nurse Care Manager handling the patient’s case, a home health care aide available two to three per week, a full-time social worker or chaplain, and plenty of volunteers.
Other things to consider would be if the facility is non-profit or privately owned, and what levels of care are offered. The levels of care provided may be:
? Palliative Care -; Palliative care is available for anyone experiencing a serious illness at any age and at any stage of the disease or illness. One need not be determined to have a life-limiting illness to receive palliative. Palliative care provides pain relief and controls symptoms. These may be provided through medication, massage therapy, and even relaxation techniques.
? Hospice Care – Hospice is a Medicare benefit that provides compassionate hospice care and palliative care for those who have been diagnosed with a terminal, life-limiting illness, and no longer receiving curative treatment and have been medically determined to have six months or less to live.
When deciding to forgo medical care the decision for hospice services is the best alternative. Quality, hospice care focuses on end of life enjoyment through reducing the symptoms of illness through pain management. Hospice care focuses on supporting the needs of the patient’s families as well, with a range of services include consulting and bereavement support.
