Hospice: What It Actually Provides

A hospice team usually includes a doctor, nurses, aides, a social worker, a chaplain and volunteers. Nurses visit regularly to manage pain, breathlessness, anxiety and other symptoms, and a nurse is typically available by phone around the clock. Hospice generally provides medications related to the terminal illness, along with equipment such as hospital beds, wheelchairs and oxygen. Aides help with bathing and personal care. Social workers and chaplains support emotional, practical and spiritual needs. After a death, bereavement support continues for the family.

Hospice eligibility generally requires a doctor to estimate a life expectancy of six months or less if the illness follows its usual course. Many families wish they had started hospice sooner, because earlier enrollment gives more time to benefit from the support. Signs it may be time include frequent hospital visits, declining strength or a decision to stop treatment aimed at the cancer. Talk openly with your oncologist or palliative care doctor about goals and what matters most to the patient. A hospice agency can also meet with you for an informational visit.

Choosing hospice usually means stopping treatments intended to cure or control the cancer, though comfort-focused treatments continue. Patients can leave hospice if they decide to pursue treatment again or if their condition improves, and they can return later if needed. Hospice does not usually provide round-the-clock caregivers at home, so families still handle much of the daily care, with support and teaching from the team. Medicare and many insurance plans cover hospice, but check the details of your coverage and the agency's services.

1. 1

   Ask your oncologist or palliative doctor whether hospice might help now or in the near future.

2. 2

   Request an informational visit from one or two hospice agencies to compare services.

3. 3

   Confirm with your insurance plan what hospice services and medications are covered.

4. 4

   Discuss the patient's wishes about where they want to receive care before a crisis happens.