Hospice care is a specialized form of support intended to offer comfort, alleviate pain, and provide assistance to individuals facing a life expectancy of less than six months due to chronic illnesses.
A hospice care team consists of caregivers, nurses, and doctors who offer continuous support to both the patient and their family throughout the final stages of life. The primary focus of hospice care is to enhance comfort and support rather than seeking a cure for the underlying disease.
Hospice care is adaptable and can be administered in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, personal residences, and assisted living facilities.
Hospice care at home
Hospice care at home involves a dedicated team of caregivers who start their day early by reviewing schedules, patient care plans, and necessary supplies. They then begin their rounds by visiting patients in their homes, hospice facilities, or hospitals. During these visits, hospice workers provide medical care, administer medications, and assess pain levels according to the patient’s care plan. In addition to medical support, hospice workers offer emotional assistance to both patients and their families.
The primary goals are to maintain dignity and ensure patient comfort, achieved through arranging comfortable surroundings and attending to the patient’s needs, such as massaging their hands, moisturizing their lips, placing a damp cloth over their eyes, and providing ice chips.
Throughout the afternoon, hospice workers update patient records and guide families on end-of-life care and available resources. They ensure seamless communication among the healthcare team. As the day ends, they conduct evening rounds to ensure patient comfort, administer medications, and offer emotional support to families. Reflecting on their work, they prepare for the next day's tasks.
Who pays for hospice?
Paying for hospice care can be managed through various means, depending on your situation and location. Below are some methods with which one can pay for hospice care.
1. Medicare: Generally, Medicare is for people 65 or older. Medicare has four parts:
a. Hospital Insurance
b. Medicare Insurance
c. Medicare Advantage Plans
d. Drug Coverage
Hospice care comes under Part A. Read more about Medicare or read about hospice at Medicare.
2. Health Insurance: Most health insurance plans cover hospice care, including Medicare and Medicaid in the United States. They typically cover services related to your terminal illness, including medications, equipment, and visits from healthcare professionals.
3. Veterans Benefits: If you're a veteran, you may be eligible for hospice care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA provides hospice care through its medical centers and community providers.
4. Charitable Organizations: Some charitable organizations offer financial assistance or grants to individuals who need help paying for hospice care. Below is a list of some charitable organizations that can pay for your hospice care.
a. Worldwide Hospice Palliative Care Allianceb. International Association for Hospice & Palliative Care
c. Marie Curie
d. Hospice Foundation of America
e. Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association
f. Hinds Hospice
g. Southern California Hospice Foundation
Hospice Care at BrightStar Care
At BrightStar Care, we deeply empathize with individuals requiring hospice care. That's why we've collaborated with Asera Care, a division of Amedisys, to deliver specialized hospice services. We firmly believe that those facing end-of-life journeys deserve expert, compassionate care. To know more about our hospice care service call: 484.715.0007 or email us at brightstarcaregcc@outlook.com
Find a BrightStar Care® Location Near You
Looking for in-home care services or assisted living for your loved one or a reliable medical staffing partner for your organization? Our experienced local care team members are ready to help. Find a location near you, contact us online, or call 866.618.7827 to speak with a local care expert and learn more about how BrightStar Care offers A Higher Standard®.