Types of Provided Services
Hospice care does not speed up or slow down the dying process. Hospice provides experts in compassionate care to attend to dying patients and their families. In a general hospice program a wide range of services are provided. The services described in this section are covered by the hospice benefit under Medicare, Medical Assistance, and most private insurance plans.
The Plan of Care
The Plan of Care is a document that outlines the treatments and supports that will be provided to meet the unique needs of each hospice patient. The plan of care includes not only the medical care that the person will receive, but also the steps that will be taken to help the patient and the family emotionally and spiritually. The hospice program's professional team, you and your loved one will collaborate with your doctor and the hospice staff to develop the plan of care. You will have an opportunity to discuss your needs, preferences, and wishes. Your voice counts!
The Interdisciplinary Team
The following people work together to develop and carry out the plan of care:
- Physicians: The patient is encouraged to keep his or her regular doctor, who will work closely with the hospice program's Medical Director. The role of the Medical Director includes management and coordination of medical care for all hospice patients. In addition, the Medical Director consults with the patient's physician regarding pain and symptom management, or any other aspect of patient care. The Medical Director also serves as a resource for the hospice team.
- Nurse: The registered nurse plays an important role by providing direct care to the patient, checking symptoms and monitoring medications. The nurse also teaches the patient and the family about care-giving techniques and serves as a link to the doctor.
- Home Health Aide/Homemaker: A home health aide assists the patient with bathing, dressing, shampooing, shaving, and other personal needs. The same aide or another staff member may help with preparing meals, doing laundry, or other light housekeeping duties.
- Social Worker: The social worker counsels the patient and the family as they cope with the stresses of the terminal illness, and helps other team members understand the family's situation. In addition, the social worker helps the patient and family to find resources for financial and other practical problems.
- Bereavement Counselor: After the death of the patient, the bereavement counselor helps survivors get through the period of mourning by providing individual counseling and referral to support groups. The counselor, or a trained volunteer, may visit the family periodically during the first year, or may keep in touch by phone or mail.
- Spiritual Counselor: This service is available regardless of the patient or family members' religious affiliation. Pastoral care is available to offer comfort and peace to families. The hospice program's spiritual counselor may also help with funeral arrangements.
- Volunteers: These dedicated people provide compassionate support by being available to shop, carpool, prepare meals, or simply visit with the patient so the family can take a break.
- Therapists: Physical, occupational, and speech therapists may visit to help patients stay as independent as possible by learning new ways to perform basic activities that have become difficult. Therapists also work with caregivers to help them provide the best care possible.
Medication & Supplies
Medications for Control of Symptoms and Pain Relief
Hospice benefits pay 95 percent of the cost of medications that are related to the terminal diagnosis. Patients are billed the remaining 5 percent. Medications that are not related to the terminal diagnosis are not covered by hospice benefits.
Medical Equipment and Supplies
Equipment includes durable items such as a walker, portable commode, wheelchair, and/or hospital bed. Supplies include bandages, catheters, incontinence pads, and other disposable items.