Q: When should a decision be made about entering a hospice program?
A: Ideally, patients should be referred to the hospice before the patient and family are in crisis. Encourage your physician to refer the patient to hospice before everyone is worn out and death is imminent. Hospice is not a death-bed service, nor is it a sign of “giving up”. Hospice care is about claiming the end of life and making every day count.
Q: Will my doctor remain my doctor under hospice care?
A: Mays Hospice functions as an extension of, not in place of, the patient’s attending physician. Mays Hospice also has a medical director available to help patients who have no physician and to provide medical expertise to the Hospice Team.
Q: Is there any special equipment or are there any changes that have to be made to my home before hospice care begins?
A: Mays Hospice will assess your individual needs, recommend any necessary equipment, and help make arrangements in obtaining such equipment. Often, the need for equipment is minimal at first and increases as the disease progresses.
Q: How many family members or friends does it take to care for a patient at home?
A: There is no set number. One of the first things the Mays Hospice team will do is prepare an individualized care plan that will meet the needs and goals of the patient and family. Hospice staff members visit regularly and are always accessible to answer questions and provide support.
Q: Do I have to be homebound to receive hospice services?
A: No. Hospice is about living fully. We encourage patients to do what they enjoy as they are able. The hospice team assists patients and families in achieving their goals and dreams as much as possible.
Q: Is hospice care covered by insurance?
A: Hospice coverage is provided by Medicare nationwide, by Medicaid in 38 states, and by most private health insurance policies. Medicare beneficiaries are covered at 100% under Medicare Part A. Durable medical equipment such as a hospital bed, oxygen, bedside commode and supplies are furnished by Mays Hospice. In addition, Mays Hospice provides all prescribed medications that are related to the terminal diagnosis and symptoms.
Q: Is hospice associated with any religious organizations?
A: No. Hospice care is not connected to a specific religion. Mays Hospice serves the broad community and does not expect nor impose any particular set of beliefs. Our philosophy of Hospice care supports spiritual preparation and support in addition to physical and emotional needs.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row]
Leave a Reply