What is Hospice?
The underlying philosophy of hospice is to meet the wishes of the terminally ill patients and their families to live out life to the fullest measure possible with dignity, comfort, and freedom from pain.
Where is Hospice Care Provided?
Hospice offers four levels of care. These included routine, inpatient, continuous care and respite. Care is provided wherever the patient resides. This may include the person's home, nursing home, assisted living center, or inpatient hospice facility.
Who Pays for Hospice?
In most instances, all or the majority of hospice care may be covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance.
Who Qualifies for Hospice Care?
Any patient who has been diagnosed with a life limiting illness and whose physician certifies that they are appropriate for hospice care may receive hospice services.
Family members and caregivers are often the first to recognize the changing needs and condition of their loved one. Informing your physician about these changes can help him or her in determining whether hospice could help your loved one and family.
Someone may qualify for hospice services if he or she has experienced:
- increasing and uncontrolled pain
- marked decline in functional status despite curative measures
- frequent hospitalization
- increased weakness and fatigue
- progressive weight loss
- uncontrolled nausea and vomiting
- shortness of breath
California 