Hospice organizations and the Hospice philosophy of care are a wonderful resource for many families. However, Hospice is often misunderstood. If you’re facing cancer with a loved one, it’s important that you understand how Hospice care works and what you can expect, should you ever need these resources. Here are some basics about Hospice that you should know.

Hospice is a philosophy of care. It is based on the premise that each person should live out the final stage of their live with dignity, quality of life and minimal or no pain. Hospice care can begin once a patient can see no benefit from further cancer treatment and likely has six months or less to live. To qualify for Hospice care, the patient’s primary doctor must certify that the patient meets these requirements.

Hospice does not mean you’ve given up hope.  Many families put off contacting Hospice because they believe it’s an indication that death is imminent and no hope can be found. It’s important to understand that while Hospice is designed for those whose disease is no longer treatable, you can end hospice care if cancer goes into remission or if other circumstances indicate that further cancer treatment would be recommended.

Hospice focuses on quality of life. Hospice provides palliative care – meaning that they focus on reducing symptoms and alleviating pain. However, it is also the goal of Hospice that patients be alert and able to enjoy the rest of their life. So, patients are not simply given high doses of pain killers that leave them unable to function unless it is absolutely necessary.

Hospice offers a wide range of services. Hospice can provide care in your home, in a hospital or in a nursing facility. In some areas, Hospice operates their own facilities, as well. Most patients receive Hospice care at home; as this is where most people prefer to be. Most Hospice groups offer the following:

• Care from doctors, nurses, chaplains and trained volunteers
• Respite care
• Medical Equipment, such as hospital beds and oxygen tanks
• Coordination of all team members
• In home care – nurses and volunteers can visit patients at  home and bring prescription medications
• A care plan that takes all needs into account
• Bereavement counseling for the family
• 24 hour availability by phone

Most US insurance plans cover Hospice. Hospice is a non-profit organization, which means that most will provide free care to patients who cannot pay. However, most insurance plans cover Hospice care, which is usually far less expensive than many other options. Hospice care is provided free to all who need it in the UK.

Researching the Hospice care available in your area is an important step toward planning for the future of your loved one. If you understand exactly what resources are available, you can make better decisions about how to handle end of life care should this become necessary. You may find it difficult to bring up the subject of Hospice with your loved one. If this is the case, ask your doctor to discuss the option with the patient. Hospice is a wonderful resource for families facing serious illnesses, and it’s important that all families facing the possibility of a terminal illness understand the benefits that Hospice can provide.

expensive than many other options. Hospice care is provided free to all who need it in the UK.

Researching the Hospice care available in your area is an important step toward planning for the future of your loved one. If you understand exactly what resources are available, you can make better decisions about how to handle end of life care should this become necessary. You may find it difficult to bring up the subject of Hospice with your loved one. If this is the case, ask your doctor to discuss the option with the patient. Hospice is a wonderful resource for families facing serious illnesses, and it’s important that all families facing the possibility of a terminal illness understand the benefits that Hospice can provide.

Recommended Reading

Their Cancer – Your Journey by Anne Orchard
A helpful guide for family members and friends on coping with practical and emotional issues

Gentle Dying by Felicity Warner
Insight on end of life issues and how to ease the process of dying.

More information helpful with End of Life Issues.

Further Cancer Book Reviews

Further Resources

More information about hospice care