HOSPICE CARE
Hospice: What You Need to Know Hospice is a unique service that focuses on patients and their caregivers who are facing advanced end-of-life illness. Hospice provides compassionate care for people in their final phase of life so they can live in peace and comfort. The guiding philosophy of hospice is to regard death as the final stage of life. It respects life without trying to postpone death. Hospice and palliative care address many of the same issues, but can look very different on a case-by-case basis. Hospice is intended for individuals will a life expectancy of fewer than six months, where palliative care isn’t limited to this time period. Your loved one could benefit from advanced care even if their illness is not life-limiting in the near future. End-of-life goals and symptom management are crucial in both scenarios, and it is important to meet with your healthcare provider to discuss which is appropriate for you or your loved one. If a patient qualifies for hospice, they are admitted and services begin. An interdisciplinary team is assigned to the patient and family that can include: an RN Case Manager, Social Worker, Home Health Aide, bereavement coordinator and a Chaplain and volunteers if they wish. Often hospice agencies also have complementary therapies such as music therapy, massage therapy, aromatherapy,
134 KANSAS CITY METRO AREA – 2022 EDITION
and beautician services. This team approach is overseen by a hospice medical director who will collaborate with the primary physician of the patient. It is important that comfort and care of symptom management becomes the priority, and continuing treatment of the illness is no longer beneficial. Hospice care provides a level of support that is unrivaled. A team of clinicians, social workers, spiritual and grief counselors, and volunteers rally around you or your loved one to meet their needs. This can range from medical treatment and cessation of pain, to coordination of services, or making peace with family and a higher power. When choosing a hospice provider, talk to the professionals. Your doctor, nurses, and social workers are great resources when it comes to choosing a hospice provider. Also, speak with friends, neighbors, and faith leaders for advice, it is likely they have had experiences you can draw from in making your decision. You are encouraged to interview hospice agencies to choose the one that is best for you and your family. ~ Editor’s Note: This article was submitted by Duke Onkoba RN, BSN. Duke is the Clinical Director with Catholic Community Hospice and may be reached at 913-621-5090 or by email at hospiceinfo@ catholiccommunityhospice.com. See our ad on page 121.
