UNDERSTANDING HOSPICE CARE
What is hospice?
Hospice care focuses on those who face a life-limiting illness when a cure is no longer realistic. The approach of Dignity Hospice is to help the patient live life as comfortably and fully as possible. It is a family-centered approach with the patient, family and hospice care team making decisions together.
Why hospice care?
Choosing hospice care is not a last resort or giving up on life. It does not signify the end of hope; but rather it is a change in focus. It is the hope that as health declines, life will be as comfortable and meaningful as possible. It is knowing that you and your family are well cared for. During this time of life, comfort and dignity are important and hospice care helps to maintain both.
Several studies, including the New England Journal of Medicine, report that receiving hospice care improves the lives of patients. With Dignity Hospice you are not just a patient, you're family.
When is it time for hospice?
Dignity Hospice offers a free consultation with no obligation, to help determine if you or your loved one can benefit from hospice care. People often avoid considering hospice care until they are in a crisis situation and then end up missing out on valuable help and support. Deciding to choose hospice early on provides improved quality of life and comfort to the patient and family.
Hospice is not for just the last few days of life. It is ideal when sufficient time is given to provide compassionate, specialized care that enhances the patient's quality of life surrounded by loved ones at home. Because no one can predict life’s timeline, patients may improve and even live longer when they are receiving hospice care. There is no limit to the length of time a patient can be on hospice as long as qualifications are met.
In addition to a life-limiting illness, other indicators may suggest that you or your loved one would benefit from hospice care. Some indicators may include:
- Frequent falls
- Repeated visits to the emergency room, hospital or doctor's office
- Decrease in alertness - sleeping more and/or increased confusion
- Difficulty with daily activities and personal care
- Increased pain, nausea, breathing distress or discomfort
- Urinary or bowel incontinence
- Lack of appetite and unusual weight loss
How much will home hospice care cost you?
Hospice related care, supplies, medications and equipment are covered 100% by Medicare, Med Advantage Plans, Medicaid and other private insurance plans. Dignity Hospice is a certified provider for Medicare and Medicaid services, as well as all Medicare Advantage plans covered under the different insurance agencies in Utah.
The hospice benefit is comprehensive with all services. Medications, supplies and equipment related to the patient’s hospice diagnosis are provided by Dignity Hospice. This saves patients and families a tremendous amount of money, time and worry.
What options are available?
Options available should be discussed throughout each stage of an illness to plan the best course of action. Several care options should be considered. All hospices are required to provide certain services, but not all hospice care is the same. The patient and family make the decision as to which hospice service best meets their needs. Early study of the options available allows for better decision-making.
You and your loved ones have the final decision which hospice company in Salt Lake City you choose. Some hospitals, doctors, discharge planners and others may make it seem you do not have a choice as to which hospice company you sign with. Choose the company which best meets the needs of you and your loved ones.
With Dignity Hospice, our healthcare professionals in Utah, Davis County, and Salt Lake City are specifically trained to provide hospice care in your home. Our team loves what they do and brings years of experience. We take the time to listen, answer questions and help with the needs of our patients and their families.
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