When we’re shopping for a new car or neighborhood to live in, we spend months doing our homework to make an informed decision. So why is it that we don’t plan for the way we want our lives to end? No one wants to say goodbye to someone we desperately love — yet we all must, eventually. Without research and planning, any of us could face that last chapter lost and alone, instead of cherishing every second of the precious time that’s left. The decisions you make can dramatically alter your end-of-life journey, so let’s set the record straight about hospice care.
Do I lose my doctor? No, hospice is about choice. If you have a doctor you like and trust and want involved in your care, you can have that. Hospice teams work alongside your primary-care physician to develop the best plan of care for you.
Is hospice care at home expensive? Even though our care teams come to you, wherever you live — you don’t have to worry about cost. Medicare covers hospice care, medical equipment and medications needed to treat your illness.
No Medicare? Most insurance plans cover hospice.
What if I change my mind? There is no rule requiring you to stay on hospice. Patients come on and sign off whenever they choose — it’s their decision. You’re always free to leave hospice care to pursue additional treatments or try a new therapy.
Does hospice hastens death? Not at all. In fact, often when patients stop curative treatment and start receiving hospice care, the social support, nursing care and physician management stabilizes their condition and quality of life actually improves.
Are all hospices the same? No. Hospices vary in their level of experience and expertise. Medicare allows you to choose your own hospice, but if you don’t make a choice, someone — a hospital, a doctor, a facility — will choose for you.
When is the right time for hospice? It’s different for everyone, but start with your doctor or call us with your questions, anytime, at 602-530-6900 or visit hov.org.
Lin Sue Cooney is community engagement director at Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix, Ariz. Reach her at [email protected].