When it comes to hospice care, myths and misconceptions are not uncommon.
These misunderstandings can prevent individuals and families from benefiting from the compassionate care and comfort hospice provides.
Let’s review some of these myths and talk about the facts instead. That way, you can make well-informed decisions for yourself or your loved ones.
Let’s review some hospice care myths:
Myth: Hospice means giving up hope.
Hospice does not mean giving up hope. Instead, the focus shifts from curing the illness to improving the quality of life and comfort. Hope in hospice can mean having a pain-free day, spending quality time with family, or achieving a specific personal goal.
Myth: Hospice care is only for the last few days or weeks of life.
Hospice care is available for months and sometimes years, not just days or weeks. The goal is to support patients and their families throughout the progression of a life-limiting illness.
Myth: Accepting hospice care is basically accepting death.
Entering hospice is about embracing life and making the most of the time that remains. It’s about focusing on comfort, pain management, and achieving personal goals.
Myth: Only a doctor can refer a patient to hospice.
While a doctor’s certification of a life-limiting illness is required, referrals can come from many sources. Family members, friends, clergy, or even the patient themselves can initiate the hospice discussion and seek services.
Myth: Hospice care is expensive and not covered by insurance.
Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover hospice care services. Oftentimes, there are little to no out-of-pocket costs.
Myth: All hospice programs are the same.
Hospice programs may share a core philosophy but they can differ in services, staff expertise, and how they operate. It’s essential to research and choose a program that best fits the unique needs of the patient and their family. You will quickly find that these companies vary in values, level of care, and beyond.
Myth: Once a patient is under hospice care, they can’t leave.
Hospice care is flexible. If a patient’s condition improves or they choose to seek curative treatment, they can be discharged from hospice. They can also return to hospice care later as needed.
Myth: Hospice care is just for the patient.
Hospice care takes a holistic approach. This means not only caring for the patient but also providing emotional, spiritual, and bereavement support for their families. The well-being of the entire family unit is a priority. Hospice providers have a variety of team members on their staff to offer a range of support services.
Myth: Hospice is only for cancer patients.
Hospice care is for anyone with a life-limiting illness, not just those with cancer. This includes heart disease, Alzheimer’s, lung disease, and many other conditions.
Myth: You can’t keep your personal doctor if you choose hospice.
Choosing hospice doesn’t mean abandoning your primary doctor. In many cases, your doctor can work alongside the hospice team to ensure continuity and personalized care throughout your journey.
Myth: Choosing hospice means you’ll no longer receive any treatment for your illness.
This isn’t true. In hospice, the focus shifts from curative treatments to comfort care. This means managing symptoms and ensuring a high quality of life. Some treatments might continue if they offer comfort and relief.
Myth: Hospice is only for elderly patients.
Although it is most commonly used for elderly individuals, hospice is for anyone with a life-limiting illness. It serves children, young adults, and seniors. The focus is not on their age but rather on addressing each patient’s specific needs.
Myth: If you choose hospice, you can’t return to regular medical treatment.
Hospice care is flexible. If a patient or family chooses to pursue curative treatments again, they can leave hospice care. The decision always rests with the patient and their loved ones.
Myth: Hospice is only provided in a patient’s home.
While many hospice services are provided at home, care can also be given in hospice facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. The goal is to offer comfort wherever the patient is.
Do you still have questions?
The best way to get answers is by speaking with a hospice care expert. Get in touch with Endeavor today, so we can answer any questions you may have on your mind.