Frequently Asked Questions
Here you can find answers to the most common questions.
What is Hospice?
Hospice care is a patient-centered healthcare program, offering services implemented in a coordinated team approach, focused on individuals whose “hope for cure” shifts to “hope for a life free of suffering”. It is designed for individuals of all ages with a chronic illness, certified a life expectancy of 6 months or less. This does not mean that hospice care can only last 6 months. A host of valuable services are offered to address every aspect of the patient’s care as a whole, prioritizing the importance of dignity, peace, quality and comfort.
Eligibility for Hospice Care
Hospice serves patients of all ages with a variety of chronic illness or life-limiting conditions. Eligibility requirements for Hospice care include:
- A Physician must certify that the individual with a terminal illness has a limited life expectancy of 6 months or less
- The individual wishes to no longer treat the terminal illness, but to direct focus on pain management and enhance quality of life.
- The individual has a desired goal of comfort, rather than curative care.
Who Pays for Hospice Care?
- Medicare / MediCal
- Health Insurance, HMO’s, and PPO’s
- Private Pay
Hospices also rely on Community support for both donations and volunteer staff.
Where are Hospice Services Provided?
Hospice care is provided wherever the patient is residing:
- Home
- Skilled Nursing Facility
- Residential
- Assisted Living Center
Admission Process
Admitting a patient to the hospice program is a simple operation for the attending physician, discharge planner or social worker. They begin the process by contacting the hospice agency with a referral or interest in services along with the patient/family members direct contact information. Thereon, a Hospice staff will meet with the patient and family to discuss the specifics, provide detailed information and answer any questions which may derive. Once the patient and family consent to hospice care, the staff proceeds forward in making all necessary arrangements for admission and start of care.
Does Ed & Ar Hospice Care Offer a Skilled Nursing Benefit
Yes, Ed & Ar Hospice Care, Inc. offers 4 levels of care to meet the individual needs for each patient. Each level is designed to accommodate the patient’s acuity and assist the family during a crisis.
- Routine Care
- Continuous Care
- General Inpatient
- Inpatient Respite