Heart and Soul

• Medications are no longer of assistance

• Utilization of concentrated oxygen is no longer helping

• Life limiting or chronic illness has run its course

Studies have shown that some people on hospice services actually live longer than projected. In these cases, the patient may remain on hospice with recertification by the hospice medical director.

Q: How does hospice care benefit your loved one at the end of life?

Often families are upset to hear this recommendation because, to them, it means that we are “giving up on Mom.” But what it really can mean is a shift of perspective, from curing Mom’s illness to providing comfort and quality of life.

• The hospice team will collaborate with other healthcare professionals to coordinate treatment and care.

• Hospice will help build a support hybrid insurance plan that combines life and long-term insurance products. In the meantime, become an active patient. Ask plenty of questions, in particular about tests that may be unneeded but tend to run up your bill. Consider generics when filling prescriptions, which can also turned into huge savings. system to meet the needs of you, your family, and your loved one.

• The hospice team will visit your loved one anywhere they call home.

•Medications related to your loved one’s terminal illness will be covered.

• Medical equipment will be provided if it’s related to your loved one’s terminal illness.

• Hospice provides different levels of care to help manage your loved one’s symptoms.

• Your loved one will have access to a comprehensive team that addresses his or her physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs.

• Hospice will provide bereavement follow-up for you and your family.