“These people worked from the bottom of their hearts and showed more feeling than I have ever seen in the medical profession.”
Former Baptist Hospice family memberFrequently Asked Questions
What is Hospice?
When a cure is no longer possible for a disease process, Hospice is a service designed to help patients and their families through life's final journey. The focus shifts from treatment to pain and symptom management, spiritual and emotional support, and keeping the patient as comfortable as possible while providing everything needed to stay at home. Hospice provides medications, medical equipment, and medical supplies in addition to regular visits by our staff.
Why is Hospice such a good program?
When the patient's physician determines their life expectancy would normally be 6 months or less, and further treatment is declined, Hospice is the perfect provider of health care. It is designed for patients nearing the end of life, and the staff is experienced in dealing with all the circumstances associated with this event. The care, compassion and support provided to the patient and their loved ones by Hospice is unavailable through any other health care provider.
Is Hospice only for cancer patients?
NO! Hospice care is available to any person with a terminal disease process. Some of the disease processes include:
- End stage Alzheimer's
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- End stage cardiovascular disease
- End stage CVA (stroke)
- End stage pulmonary disease
- End stage renal disease
- End stage dementia
- End stage liver disease
Is Hospice covered by my insurance?
In most cases, yes. Hospice is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance policies. The criteria for coverage depends upon your insurance. Our Customer Service Center can help you determine Hospice benefits under your insurance. Call them at 202–7882 or 1–800–850–6789.
Can you only receive Hospice care for a 6-month period?
No. The Medicare and Medicaid Hospice benefit is actually indefinite. As long as the patient continues to meet the criteria, they can continue to receive care. In some cases, private insurance policies have limitations on Hospice coverage. However, once admitted to Hospice we will continue providing care even if the insurance benefits are exhausted.
Does Hospice mean "giving up"?
Not at all. Hospice means having individualized care focusing on pain and symptom management and quality of life.
Is it true that you cannot go back to the hospital once you are admitted to Hospice?
No. Inpatient care is a part of the Hospice benefit. A patient can return to the hospital if pain or symptoms cannot be controlled well at home, or if a family crisis occurs and no one is able to be at home with the patient.
Can a nursing home resident receive Hospice care?
Yes. Since the nursing home is considered their place of residence, Hospice services can be provided to them.
You may have other questions not answered on this page. Please call our Customer Service Center staff at 202–7882 or 1–800–850–6789. They will take as much time as necessary to answer your questions and explain what Hospice can offer to you and your family.