With multiple hospice agencies in the area it is important to make the best choice for your loved one. The following are important questions to ask when choosing hospice services:
Is the hospice organization a non-profit that focuses on quality care?
Does the hospice organization have a full-time physician on staff, Board Certified in Palliative Care Medicine who makes home visits?
What is the average caseload per nurse? The lower the caseload, the better the care.
Does the hospice organization have full-time nurses dedicated to only weekend and evening hours?
How does the hospice organization meet the spiritual and emotional needs of the patient and family?
How long has the hospice organization provided services in the area?
What type of reputation does the hospice organization have in the local medical community about the quality of services provided?
How are visit frequencies established?
Who Does Hospice Help?
Some people have diseases that can be managed or slowed, but not cured. These conditions can include:
Heart Disease (CHF, Cardiomyopathy)
Lung Disease (COPD, Emphysema, etc.)
Kidney Disease (Renal Failure)
Liver Disease (Hepatitis, Cirrhosis)
Cancer
Alzheimer's Disease or Dementia
Strokes
Parkinson's Disease or Lou Gehrig's Disease
AIDS
Certain Birth Defects
As these diseases progress, it becomes harder to prolong life and preserve quality of life. When aggressive measures are more likely to prolong suffering than restore health, it may be time to consider hospice care. Hospice focuses on making the end of life a comfortable and meaningful time.
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