Getting started with hospice care, either as a patient or a loved one, may seem overwhelming at first, but take comfort in knowing that hospice care companies like Dignity Home & Hospice will be by your side throughout the entire process. This post will walk you through what to expect when you or a loved one enlists the help of hospice care.

You Are in Control

It’s easy to assume that there is little control during this stage of life; however, with home hospice care, it’s important to remember that you are in control. At Dignity Home Health & Hospice, we are by your side, ensuring that your healthcare aligns as best as possible with your preferences.

Unlike in a hospital setting, you can stay in the comfort of your own home. You’ll also have the choice of determining who will be surrounding you and can be involved in making a schedule with your hospice team. Every decision you make with our healthcare team is made with comfort and dignity in mind, allowing you to feel supported during this time in your life.

Communication Throughout Hospice Care

Doctor communication

Dignity Home Health & Hospice believes that clear and effective communication during hospice services is imperative. Communication must be a priority on every level for successful care services, especially between the patient, family, and healthcare team.

Patients and family members should be encouraged to ask as many questions as necessary. If there are any misunderstandings between anyone involved, the healthcare team must be able to explain so that all parties understand thoroughly.

In addition, there should be frequent status updates about the patient’s health and condition. Our hospice team helps families understand what they can expect about their loved one’s condition and what will likely happen in the coming weeks. Patients and family members must be allowed to express their feelings and concerns to the hospice team.

The Process of Hospice Care

Determine Eligibility

Hospice care typically begins when a physician determines that you or a loved one is eligible for hospice. This difficult discussion usually happens when you or a loved one has a progressive illness that is no longer responding to treatment, such as:

  • Cancer
  • Chronic lung disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Heart failure
  • AIDS
  • Alzheimer’s or dementia
  • Parkinson’s, ALS, or other neurological disorders

Note that these are just a few examples of why someone would be in hospice care and is not a comprehensive list. No matter why your loved one needs hospice, the process of being accepted into hospice care will likely remain the same.

Receive Recommendations

Once you or a loved one is accepted into hospice home care, you’ll need to find a hospice home care company. In many cases, your physician will recommend a few hospice providers you can meet with to discuss care goals. In your search, you can also ask around with friends, family members, and other caregivers to see who they would suggest.

Assess Hospice Providers

Many hospice companies offer a no-cost, no-obligation assessment determining how to best proceed in hospice care. Meeting with hospice providers allows you to ask questions and communicate your needs. After these visits, you’ll better understand which hospice company to choose.

Be Admitted and Receive Services

The admission process begins once you or a loved one has found a hospice company. This usually includes a thorough assessment of needs, completing all billing information, and signing all consent paperwork. All necessary medical equipment will be brought to the home, and other healthcare arrangements will be made. After this process, you or a loved one can begin receiving ongoing treatment in the comfort of your home.

How Dignity Can Help

Though knowing what to expect during hospice care can seem overwhelming, Dignity Home Health & Hospice is here to help you through this challenging time. We are committed to providing compassionate care in hospice, keeping communication clear, and answering any questions you may have. When searching for quality hospice care in Utah, don’t feel like you have to settle. We offer services throughout Utah, Salt Lake, Davis, and Weber Counties. Contact us today for a free consultation.