Understanding Hospice Care

Navigate your journey with knowledge, compassion, and support. Learn what hospice care means and how to prepare for this important transition.

What Is Hospice Care?

Hospice care is patient and family-centered care that optimizes quality of life by anticipating, preventing, and treating suffering. It affirms life and does not hasten or postpone death.

Our focus shifts from curative treatment to comfort care, allowing patients to live their remaining days with dignity, peace, and surrounded by loved ones.

When you choose hospice care, you're choosing a philosophy of care that honors your values, beliefs, and wishes during this profound time.

Patient-Centered
Family Support
Comfort Focus
Holistic Care

The Hospice Care Journey

1

Initial Consultation

Meet with our team to discuss your situation, answer questions, and explore whether hospice care is right for you or your loved one.

2

Physician Referral

Your doctor will refer you to hospice when curative treatment is no longer the primary goal. Medicare requires a prognosis of 6 months or less.

3

Assessment & Care Planning

Our team conducts a comprehensive assessment and develops a personalized care plan based on your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.

4

Ongoing Support

Regular visits, medication management, pain control, and emotional support delivered by our interdisciplinary team.

5

End-of-Life Planning

We help facilitate important conversations about wishes, legacy, and ensuring comfort during the final stages.

6

Bereavement Support

Our support continues for up to 13 months after your loved one passes, helping families navigate grief and loss.

Resources for Families

Education & Guidance
Understand what to expect, how to communicate, and how to support your loved one through every stage of the journey.
Counseling Services
Access to grief counseling, family therapy, and spiritual guidance from compassionate professionals.
Financial Resources
Information about Medicare, insurance coverage, and financial assistance programs available to families.
Educational Materials
Take-home guides, checklists, and resources to help you prepare and make informed decisions.
Caregiver Support
Respite care options, caregiver training, and support groups for those providing daily care.
Legacy Planning
Help creating meaningful memories, recording life stories, and planning for what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hospice care only for cancer patients?

No. While common for cancer, hospice care can benefit patients with any terminal illness, including heart disease, COPD, dementia, and other progressive conditions.

Can I change my mind and return to curative treatment?

Yes. Hospice care is always the patient's choice. You can modify or discontinue hospice care at any time if circumstances change.

Will hospice care be covered by insurance?

Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans cover hospice services. We can help navigate insurance and financial options with you.

Can hospice care be provided at home?

Yes, most of our care is delivered at home. We also work with facilities, hospitals, and nursing homes to provide care wherever patients feel most comfortable.

How involved is my family in the care plan?

Very involved. We consider your family's wishes, values, and preferences central to creating a care plan that honors what matters most to you.

Questions? We're Here to Help

Our compassionate team is ready to discuss your situation, answer your questions, and help you understand your options. There's no obligation – just honest, caring conversation.

Call (817) 571-4673

Available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide support