Hospice is for those who are no longer seeking curative or aggressive treatment for an advanced serious illness, who wish to be cared for at home rather than in a hospital or facility, and whose family and caregiver need medical and care-team support to make that possible.
Hospice is for those who understand that, even when one can’t be “fixed” medically, how they feel each day still matters.
Home Hospice Care is for those who:
- Wish to avoid re-hospitalizations or ER visits
- Are focused on achieving high quality of life
- Have found that curative treatments are no longer helpful
- Prefer to be at home, surrounded by the people and places they love
- Want the caregiver and family to have support, too
- Want help managing pain & symptoms, so they can focus on living each day to the fullest
Families who choose hospice care have told us they most appreciate:
- 24/7 nurse availability
- Nurse aids who help with light housekeeping and personal care
weekly nursing visits to manage pain & symptoms–and more often, as needed - Majority of supplies, medical equipment, and medications covered by the Medicare hospice benefit and delivered to the home
- Availability of a social worker to help with benefits and resources, and a chaplain for spiritual support
Will I get to keep my own doctors?
YES. Your doctors are your choice. Our staff will work alongside your doctors and their staff to provide your care. We can also provide a physician if you choose.
Do I have to wait on a doctor to refer me to hospice?
No. You can call Hospice Care Plus anytime to ask about services.
Isn’t hospice care just for the last days?
No. In fact, a national study found that, on average, patients who chose hospice lived 29 days longer than patients who did not have hospice care. In addition, the patients reported better quality of care.
Don’t I have to keep hospice forever once I have it?
No. If having hospice care does not help you meet your goals of receiving care at home, avoiding hospitalization, and having your symptoms managed, you can choose to stop receiving hospice services.
What if, right now, I just want to ask questions?
Asking questions is a good place to begin. Call us anytime, and we’ll discuss your situation, needs, hopes, and concerns with you.
How We Help
Whether you are navigating a serious illness or caring for someone who is, you have a lot on your mind. We’re happy to answer any question you have, at any time. You don’t have to sign up for anything to start a conversation.
When is it time?
If you believe a loved one may benefit from hospice or palliative care, call as soon as possible. The earlier we are involved in care, the better the quality of life and care for both patient and family. Hospice and palliative care programs both provide an extra layer of support as you navigate a serious illness.
What program is right for me?
Whether hospice or palliative care is a better fit depends on many factors, including what your most pressing needs are, details regarding medical eligibility, and your family’s comfort level. Our job is to make that process as easy for you as possible by working with you, your loved one, and your healthcare providers to make the right choice.
Does it cost anything?
The cost of hospice care is covered by the Hospice Medicare Benefit, Medicaid, private insurance, and donations to our non-profit organization. Our palliative care program is fully donor supported. We provide care for all, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.
What are my next steps?
We recommend contacting us to learn more about programs and options. You can do that here, by calling us at 859-986-1500, or via email to hospice@hospicecp.org. Once you’re ready, we can work with your loved one’s providers to review medical records and arrange for a home or facility visit from one of our nurses. The nurse will assess your loved one and answer your questions.