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Hospice Specifics

37. Hospice

Individuals with a prognosis of death within 6 months (by two physicians) are eligible for hospice by Medicare. Hospice is simply defined as caring for the emotional needs and treating the symptoms of the patient not trying to cure the disease. The major emphasis of Hospice is for the patient, not to suffer anymore and die as pain-free as possible.

Hospice Facts

Almost 1 million Americans use Hospice each year (over 30% of deaths)
Hospice is covered by Medicare Part A and most private insurance
Medicare A will even cover the drugs associated with comforting the patient but not for the ones trying to cure the patient
Most Hospices is done at the patients home but it can also occur at private Hospice Homes, Skilled Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Facilities, Veterans Facilities, Hospitals and Prisons.
Hospice Care revolves around the “Hospice Nurse” but in truth is a team effort that incorporates physicians, therapists, pharmacists, social workers and housekeeping services.

Successful attributes of a Hospice situation can include soft music, old photos and letting the patient talk about their situation. Most patients will go through emotions such as denial, frustration, anger and even acceptance.

Action Step: When the patient passes away, you need to call the Hospice Nurse (not #911). If you call #911 their immediate reaction is to try and save the patient.

Golden Nugget: Palliative Care differs from Hospice because you usually still treat the disease with palliative care and you aren’t necessarily dying. The common denominator between the two is that your goal is for the patient not to suffer. Palliative Care is one of the fast growing segments in US Healthcare.