Understanding Hospice: A Benefit That Improves Quality of Life

By Jessica Duffy,  Executive Director, Affinity Care of Maine

207-345-6999, www.affinityhealthmanagement.com

Hospice is a word that evokes many emotions, many of which include sadness. In our society, we often equate hospice care with the last few days or hours of life. In reality, the Medicare Hospice Benefit was created to care for individuals and their families with a life expectancy of 6 months or less if the illness runs its usual course. Interestingly enough, data shows that those who elect to use their hospice benefit typically live longer and have a better quality of life. Hospice provides care in an individual’s home which may be a private residence, retirement community, assisted living, or a nursing home. Care is provided by a team which includes regular visits from nurses, aides, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers with the goal of caring for the patient and their entire family.

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the following, it may be a good idea to inquire about hospice or palliative care:

• Physical and/or Cognitive Decline

• Requiring Assistance with Daily Activities

• Frequent or recurring infections

• Frequent Falls

• Frequent hospitalizations or Emergency Visits

• Uncontrolled Pain, Nausea, or Vomiting

  
  

After receiving hospice services, families often share that they wish they had asked for hospice sooner. The hospice Medicare benefits is covered 100% by Medicare and includes not only the amazing interdisciplinary care team but also items like durable medical equipment (wheelchairs, hospital beds, and other equipment that allows one to stay home safely), medications related to the hospice diagnosis, and bereavement support for family for a year following the death of their loved one. It is unfortunate that less than 50% of Medicare beneficiaries actually access their hospice benefit and 75% of patients were enrolled in hospice for 79 days or less. 

All hospices follow the same Medicare regulations, however just like any other business it is good practice to interview different providers to find the one that is the best fit for you and your family. 

• Identify local hospices in your area

• Seek personal and professional opinions from people you trust

• Is the hospice provider accredited by the Joint Commission or Community Health Accreditation Program (CHAP). Hospices that are accredited have met rigorous quality standards, demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care.

• Review Medicare.gov

• Check online reviews and social media

• Ask questions about frequency and length of visits, how pain and symptoms are managed and what alternative therapies they offer to provide physical and emotional comfort. 

Once you have narrowed down your search to 2-3 providers, pick up the phone and/or arrange a meeting. All hospices will provide an information meeting at no charge for individuals and their families to learn more about the hospice benefit and determine if they qualify for services.