Many people don’t have an understanding of what a hospice is until they are sadly faced with a situation where they or a loved one is in need.
We are going to explain a little bit about the history of hospices, what a hospice is and what they do.
Hospice care is a type and philosophy of care that focuses on the palliation of a terminally ill or seriously ill patient’s pain and symptoms, and attending to their emotional and spiritual needs.
Hospices have been around since the 11th century they are not a new thing but are constantly evolving.
Hospices were once a place of hospitality for those who were sick, wounded, or dying, as well as those for travelers and pilgrims.
The more current concept of a hospice includes palliative care for the incurably ill given in such institutions as hospitals or nursing homes, but also care provided to those who would rather spend their last months and days of life in their own homes.
Most hospice care is delivered at home but can also be available to people in home-like hospice residences, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, veterans’ facilities, hospitals, and prisons.
The term hospice in the United States is largely defined by the practices of the Medicare system and other health insurance providers, which make hospice care available, either in an inpatient facility or at the patient’s home.
This care is given to patients with a terminal prognosis who are medically certified to have less than six months to live.
Hospice care also involves assistance for patients’ families to help them cope with what is happening and provide care and support to keep the patient at home.
The movement of hospice care has been faced with resistance but despite this has expanded through the United Kingdom, the United States and elsewhere.
In 2010, an estimated 1.581 million patients received services from hospice.
What patients have found that is great about hospices is that it is the only Medicare benefit that includes pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, twenty-four hour/seven day a week access to care and support for loved ones following a death.
Hospice care is also covered by Medicaid and most private insurance plans.
Hospices offer more than just medical care they offer support.
Contact us today to learn more!