Life’s Doors Hospice believes that treatment should be based on compassionate care and a full understanding of terminal illness. At a time when curative measures are no longer possible, hospice focuses on the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of the patient and family. Life’s Doors Hospice assists patients and their families through education, support and counseling. Special emphasis is placed on pain and symptom management.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR HOSPICE?
Hospice patients can be of any age, race or background. They must be diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and have a life expectancy of approximately six months or less. Patients with any type of terminal illness - including cancer, AIDS, heart disease, Lou Gehrig’s disease and others - are accepted. Patients need the consent of their physician to enroll in a hospice program and must no longer be seeking aggressive (or curative) treatment of their illness.
WHERE IS HOSPICE CARE PROVIDED?
Hospice services are typically carried out in a home setting. They are also available to residents of all types of care facilities located throughout the Treasure Valley. Our staff makes regular visits to the homes and care facilities where patients reside.
WHEN SHOULD THE DECISION TO ENTER HOSPICE BE MADE AND WHO MAKES THE DECISION?
It is appropriate to consider hospice at any time following the diagnosis of a life-limiting illness. Because it is often difficult to stop seeking curative efforts, even in terminal cases, Life’s Doors Hospice staff can assist families in working through the decision-making process. The final decision to enlist the help of hospice belongs to the patient.
SHOULD I WAIT FOR MY PHYSICIAN TO RAISE THE QUESTION OF HOSPICE?
Patients and families should feel free to discuss potential hospice care at any time with their physician, other health care professionals, clergy or friends. Most health care professionals are familiar with hospice services and can recommend local providers. Anyone can make a referral on behalf of an individual with limited life expectancy, including family members. If you believe that someone you love needs hospice, call us to schedule an appointment. We will help you determine if your loved one would benefit from hospice care.
HOW DOES HOSPICE ADMISSION WORK?
After contacting the patient's physician to ensure that hospice is the appropriate course of action, Life's Doors Hospice assigns an R.N. case manager to each patient. The case manager meets the patient, family members and other caregivers to design a treatment plan and to discuss any questions that they may have. The patient will execute consent and insurance forms along with a “hospice election form” stating that the patient understands that the care is palliative (aimed at pain relief, symptom control and other comfort measures) rather than curative.
HOW DOES HOSPICE MANAGE PAIN?
Hospice treats emotional, spiritual as well as physical pain. Life's Doors Hospice professionals are familiar with the latest medications and devices for pain and symptom relief. Physical and occupational therapies help patients with mobility and self-sufficiency. Counseling and chaplaincy services are also available to assist patients and families cope with important changes that are prompted by the diagnosis of a life-limiting illness.
WHAT HAPPENS IF A HOSPICE PATIENT BEGINS TO RECOVER?
If a patient's condition improves or seems to be in remission, he/she can be discharged from hospice to receive aggressive treatment. Most Medicare and private insurance companies will allow the patient to return to hospice at a later date.
WHO PAYS FOR HOSPICE?
Hospice services are paid for primarily through insurance reimbursement. Life's Doors Hospice is Medicare/Medicaid certified. Since care is provided based on need, regardless of the patient's insurance or ability to pay, financial support is supplemented by donations from families and friends of people who have been touched by hospice during the passing of a loved one.
DOES HOSPICE DO ANYTHING TO ACCELERATE THE DYING PROCESS?
Hospice does nothing to accelerate or delay the dying process. Just as doctors and nurses lend support and expertise during the time of child birth, so hospice provides its presence and specialized knowledge during the dying process.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I WILL BE ABLE TO CARE FOR A DYING PERSON AT HOME?
Caring for a dying loved one at home can be challenging but also very rewarding. Trained volunteers are available to provide respite care and support for you. At the end of a long illness, days and nights can seem endless. Life's Doors Hospice has staff on call 24 hours a day to assist you in this effort.
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