Does hospice mean giving up hope?

Hospice care can offer the promise of hope in managing the end-of-life stage of an incurable disease. Hospice is a plan of care which enables patients to maintain a quality of life through pain and symptom management while offering comfort and support to the family.

When is it appropriate to seek help?

When the patient is no longer seeking curative treatment, and comfort is the primary goal.

Who is appropriate for hospice?

Hospice care is appropriate for those patients with a life expectancy of six months or less if the disease process runs its normal course. The earlier care begins, the greater the benefits to the entire family.

Who can refer someone to hospice?

Referrals are accepted from the attending physician, the hospital, a long-term care or assisted-living facility, the patient, a family member, clergy, a friend or a community agency or other referral source.