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.

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Hospice services are typically carried out in a home setting. Hospice care is also available to residents residing in all types of care facilities located throughout the Treasure Valley. Our staff makes regular visits to the homes and care facilities where patients reside. 


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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. 


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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, including family members, can make a referral on behalf of an individual with limited life expectancy. 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. 



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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 they may have. The patient will execute consent and insurance forms along with a “hospice election form” stating that they understand that the care is palliative (aimed at pain relief, symptom control and other comfort measures) rather than curative. 



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Hospice treats emotional and 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. Music therapy is available for those requesting this service.

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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. 


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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.

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Hospice does nothing to accelerate or delay the dying process. Just as doctors and nurses lend support and expertise during the time of childbirth, hospice provides its presence and specialized knowledge during the dying process.

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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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