FAQ's

Is hospice care still provided on a special unit in the hospital?

Hospice is not a place, it is a comprehensive program of services that comes to you, most of the time in your home. When surveyed more than 90% of Americans said they would prefer to die at home.

Is hospice only for patients with cancer?

Hospice care is for people with life limiting illness regardless of the diagnosis. This includes, but is not limited to, neurologic diseases, heart, kidney and respiratory failure/disease, and end stage dementia/Alzheimer’s disease. It is designed for anyone whose life expectancy is measured in months rather than years.

Who pays for Hospice care?

Healthcare payers recognize the importance of hospice care. Medicare, Medicaid and most health insurance companies have a benefit that covers the cost of hospice care. No person will be denied RMH Hospice services on the basis of race, color, national origin, handicap, age or inability to pay.

How long can I receive Hospice care?

You can receive hospice care as long as your doctor certifies that you have a life ending illness and your condition continues to worsen.

Is there any specific equipment or changes I have to make in my home before hospice care begins?

Hospice personnel will assist you in assessing these needs. Most of the supplies and equipment needed for care are supplied through hospice. In general, hospice will assist in any way it can to make home care as convenient, safe and comfortable as possible.

How does hospice manage pain?

Hospice doctors, pharmacists and nurses are well informed regarding the most effective medications and therapies for pain management. They work with the patient and family in making decisions regarding pain management that are individualized for each patient.

Is hospice care ever provided in the hospital?

Short term inpatient care is available to most patients when pain or symptoms become too difficult to manage at home. The Hospice Medicare Benefit also provides a respite stay of up to 5 days when the caregiver(s) needs a rest.

Can a hospice patient who shows signs of recovery be returned to a regular treatment regimen?

If a patient’s condition improves or stabilizes and the disease seems to be in remission, they can be discharged from hospice with a physician approval. Patient’s may also request discharge if they want to pursue further curative treatment without experiencing any penalty. If the patient should later need hospice services most payment programs are supportive of re-admission.

Can a hospice provide services to non-English speaking patients and families?

Hospice is able to use adult family members, medically trained interpreters, or the ATT Language Line to communicate with patients and families who do not speak English.

What are Advance Directives?

An advance directive allows you to make your decisions about medical care known to your family in the event you are unable to speak for yourself. RMH can provide you with a booklet called ‘Your Right To Decide’ which contain directions and a form.