It’s never easy to think about end-of-life care. However, taking time to plan for the future eases the stress and anxiety for family and loved ones involved. Those living with a terminal illness want to make their last months, weeks, and days as comfortable as possible, and hospice care can do just that.
Continue reading 10 Questions To Ask When Deciding on Hospice Care
When it comes time to research medical care options for your loved one, it can be a bit overwhelming to decide which route to take and what’s in his or her best interest. One of the more common areas of confusion is the difference between hospice and palliative care.
Hospice care and palliative care are very similar in one way: both aim to provide comfort and care for those living with a serious illness. However, there are several differences in their overall purpose, application, and practice. We can help you gain a stronger understanding of the 4 key differences, so when the time comes to make a decision, you can focus on caring for your loved one and trusting that he or she is in good hands.
1. Treatment
Hospice focuses on caring for your loved ones needs physically, emotionally, spiritually, and socially. The care is provided for those who have a terminal illness, most often with a life expectancy of no more than 6 months. Hospice health care providers treat the patient, not the illness, ensuring the best quality of life during your loved one’s final days. This is typically chosen when all other treatments have failed and you and your loved one are ready for treatment to transition from cure to comfort.
On the other hand, palliative care is provided for anyone with a serious illness – regardless if it’s terminal or not. This type of care can be introduced to your loved one at any stage of their illness. Unlike hospice care, curative and life-prolonging treatments can continue and be incorporated into your loved one’s treatment plan if desired.
2. Eligibility
With hospice, the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services have a few requirements that your loved one must meet to qualify. These include:
A primary care physician and hospice medical director must certify a reduced life expectancy.
Acceptance of comfort care measures rather than pursuing curative treatments.
Formally electing to pursue hospice care with a specific organization.
Receiving palliative care is a bit easier and doesn’t require as many specifications due to the fact that the individual may not have a terminal illness. Your loved one can simply begin by requesting a palliative care referral at any stage of their illness.
3. Location of Care
Another major difference between hospice and palliative care is the location of where your loved one will receive treatment and/or care. At hospice, patients are able to receive care wherever they feel most comfortable, whether that’s in a hospital or in the comfort of their own home. Hospice works closely with your loved one’s physician, allowing continued care from doctors and other health care providers with whom your loved one has built strong, trusting relationships.
While palliative care can be received at home, treatments are most often administered in a hospital setting, outpatient clinic, or extended care facility. Similar to hospice care, those working in palliative care work closely with your primary doctor or physician to ensure the utmost comfort for your loved one during their greatest time of need. Oftentimes, a familiar face can make a world of difference in providing peace and relief.
4. Payment Options
Before considering hospice care, it’s important to check on policy limits for payment. While hospice can be considered an all-inclusive treatment in terms of payment, insurance coverage can vary. However, costs can be primarily covered by the federal Medicare hospice benefit program or by your loved one’s Medicaid program or private insurance policy.
Palliative care is most often paid for by private medical insurance. However, Medicare Part B and some state Medicaid programs can also offer coverage for forms of palliative treatment.
It’s important to note that depending on your loved one’s diagnosis, you do not necessarily need to choose one type of care over the other. Many times, people opt for palliative care then transition to hospice. Each case is different which is why it’s good to explore your options and decide what best fits your family and your needs.
Continue reading Understanding the 4 Differences Between Hospice and Palliative Care
When the time comes to plan for a funeral, you want to be sure it’s memorable and reflects a life well lived. We understand how difficult it is to plan when the time comes, which is why it’s a great idea to take some time beforehand to talk about your wishes. Take a look at our preplanning checklist to help make sure you’ve considered every aspect to prepare, including personal touches you might like to add.
People tell stories to keep memories alive, to help pass on the the values of their lost loved ones, and to share special things they’ve learned from their lives. Sharing stories and memories is important at funeral services because it helps to paint a picture of life with your loved one, grow your connection with family, friends, and guests, and support and guide each other along in this time of grief and healing.
Continue reading Why Sharing Stories is So Important at a Funeral Service
We understand funeral services can be expensive, but with the right planning and preparation, they don’t have to be more than you can afford. Our staff is here to help guide you along the process to creating an experience that represents your loved one well and fits within your budget. It’s possible to create a service that is simple, beautiful, and pays a wonderful tribute to the one you love. Depending upon the type of funeral, burial service, and details you’d like, costs can be kept to a minimum and still accommodate the plans you have in mind.
Continue reading How to Create a Memorable Funeral Service on a Budget
