Preparing for Hospice Care

No matter what stage in life, we believe that patients deserve the support, treatment, and comfort of a home-based care program. Hospice care, focused on the the management of pain, and the limiting of symptoms, can often take place in one’s own home-which not only can ease the financial burden of treatment, but allow your loved one to receive care in a place that is more safe and familiar than any other-their own home.

Preparing for hospice care involves working with a team of medical professionals, determining the best location of care, and making sure you understand possible financial coverage.

• Working with a Team
  The ultimate goal of hospice care is to care for the family members and patient as one. In order to accomplish this, medical professionals will determine the right amount of care and symptom management needed for your loved one. Beyond the normal perception of medical care, a hospice team also provides many other needed services, such as counseling, physical therapy, social work services, and even trained volunteers.
• Determining the Best Location of Care
  In many cases, outpatient care, possibly in one’s own home, will be possible with the help of in-home care, family members, and volunteers. With the increasing directive to lessen hospital use, in-home hospice care can not only provide a more comfortable setting for your loved one, but can also ease the financial burden of a lengthy hospital stay. If symptoms do worsen and cannot be treated in the home, your supportive medical team will know when inpatient care might become necessary.

• Understanding Financial Options
  Determining how you will pay for hospice care can often become lost in larger conversations about the more important parts of life. Most hospice patients are eligible for care under the Medicare Hospice Benefit. If you are covered by Medicaid in Indiana, you may also be eligible for the Medicaid Hospice Benefit. Private insurance also covers many hospice programs and benefits, although you will want to confirm your individual policy coverage with your insurance representative before making any decisions.

By working with a caring, committed team of medical and in-home care professionals, determining the best location for your loved one, and thoroughly investigating and understanding your financial options, you can turn your attention back to your loved one and family members. After all, hospice care should be a time for you to be with and honor your loved one’s life, leaving the details of care to a trusted team.