Hospice is a special way of caring for a person whose illness cannot be cured. The focus of hospice is on care, not cure. Hospice is a concept of support and care for patients who have been diagnosed with an illness which will result in a limited life expectancy.

     Because of the preparatory nature of hospice services, they are most effective when intervention begins early, usually when the primary physician feels that the course of the illness is terminal.

      Hospice's early intervention helps both patient and family live the remaining months as comfortably and as prepared for the expected outcome as is possible.

        24 hour "on call" for enrolled patient emergencies

        Pain and symptom management

        Skilled nursing

        Medical social services

        Resource counseling, including spiritual, bereavement and nutrition

        Physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech/language pathology

        Education on disease process, coping skills, care planning

        Assistance for physicians with case management

        Medicare/Medicaid patients provided with:

                        Durable medical equipment
                        Oxygen if ordered for hospice diagnosis
                        Medical supplies

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What to expect:

        A nurse will contact your doctor to determine if he or she feels you would benefit from Hospice.

        A nurse or social worker will meet with you and your family in your home to evaluate your needs and provide you with information on Hospice.

        An individualized plan of care will be developed with input from the Hospice team members to assist you in meeting your physical, mental and spiritual care needs as well as community resources to support your caregivers.