Hospice FAQs

ABOUT HOSPICE | HOSPICE FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is hospice care, and how does it differ from other types of medical care? Hospice care focuses on providing comfort, relief, and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses, emphasizing quality of life rather than curative treatments. Unlike other medical care, hospice addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of both the patient and their loved ones, ensuring a holistic approach during this critical time.
2. Does hospice care mean we’re giving up on treatment for my loved one? No, choosing hospice care does not mean giving up. Instead, it’s a shift in focus from trying to cure an illness to ensuring comfort and dignity during the end-of-life journey. Hospice care supports patients and families by managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life, allowing them to cherish the remaining time together.
3. What services does hospice care provide, and where can they be delivered? Hospice care includes pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, and assistance with daily activities. Services are delivered wherever the patient feels most comfortable, whether at home, in a nursing facility, or in an inpatient hospice unit. The goal is to create a peaceful environment tailored to the patient’s needs.
4. How do I know if my loved one qualifies for hospice care? Eligibility for hospice care generally requires a physician’s certification that the patient has a life-limiting condition with a prognosis of six months or less if the disease follows its expected course. Our team will work closely with your loved one’s healthcare providers to assess eligibility and ensure that hospice is the right choice.
5. What does hospice care cost, and how is it covered? Hospice care is often covered 100% by Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, and many private insurance plans, with no out-of-pocket costs for the patient or family. This coverage includes medical services, medications, medical equipment, and support services. Our team will help navigate the insurance process and answer any financial questions you may have.
6. Can my loved one continue seeing their regular doctor while receiving hospice care? Yes, your loved one can continue to see their regular doctor while receiving hospice care. Our hospice team collaborates with your loved one’s primary care physician and specialists to ensure seamless care, focusing on managing symptoms and providing the best possible quality of life.
7. What support is available for families during and after hospice care? Oasis Hospice provides comprehensive support for families, including emotional and spiritual counseling, bereavement support, and guidance on practical matters. Our bereavement services extend for 13 months after the loss, offering ongoing counseling, support groups, and resources to help families navigate the grieving process.
8. How accessible is the hospice care team, and what should we do in case of an emergency? Our hospice care team is available 24/7 to address any questions or concerns you may have. If your loved one’s condition changes or you need urgent assistance, you can contact us anytime, day or night. We are here to ensure that your loved one’s comfort and needs are always our top priority.
9. What are the signs that it might be time to consider hospice care? Some signs that it may be time to consider hospice care include frequent hospitalizations, unmanaged pain or symptoms, significant weight loss, and a decline in the ability to perform daily activities. If you’re unsure, our team can provide a comprehensive evaluation to help determine if hospice is the right step.
10. What myths about hospice care should I be aware of? Common myths include the belief that hospice care hastens death or that it’s only for the final days of life. In reality, hospice focuses on comfort and quality of life, supporting patients for months or even longer. Another myth is that pain medications like morphine are used only at the end of life, but in truth, they are prescribed based on the patient’s pain level to ensure comfort throughout their hospice journey.