Has the word “hospice” been mentioned by your doctor of the Doctor of one of your loved ones? The word can be confusing and scary if you don’t understand what to expect, but some quick knowledge of hospice care in South Florida can help to ease your mind so you can make the right decision.
Who Needs Hospice Care?
There are several reasons why we require hospice care. While most patients have terminal cancer, any person who has an illness that gives him fewer than six months to live is eligible for hospice services. It’s often used by people who stop responding to treatment and would rather treat pain and other symptoms to have a better quality of life until the end.
Who Provides Hospice Care?
A team of paid employees and unpaid volunteers can provide hospice care. In addition to doctors, registered nurses, home health aides and social workers, family members, spiritual caregivers, counselors and bereavement experts assist with the care needed. The team coordinates to make the patient as comfortable as possible both physically and emotionally.
What Does Hospice Include?
Hospice care of South Florida is available 24 hours per day, seven days per week. In addition to helping the patient remain physically and mentally active by managing pain and other symptoms, treatment includes providing end-of-life counseling for the patient and his or her loved ones to help with the grieving process. Much of the non-medical treatment focuses on keeping the patient active and engaged with family and friends.
Who Pays for Hospice Care?
End-of-life care is covered by Medicare services as long as the facilities used are Medicare-certified. Most states also offer the care under Medicaid, and most private insurance companies cover at least partial costs.
When a patient and his or her family finds out that hospice care of South Florida may be a necessity, it can be overwhelming. However, armed with the right knowledge, it leaves the patient free to enjoy family and create final memories.
