Truth:  Hospice is medical care toward the goal of comfort and dignity for someone whose life is drawing to a close. It is, in fact, the “something more” for someone who has been told nothing more can be done for them.

Truth:  Not anymore. When hospice began in the U.S. in the mid-1970s, most hospice patients had cancer. Today, while many hospice patients have cancer, the majority have other life-limiting illnesses such as end-stage heart, lung or kidney disease, or Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Truth:  The vast majority of hospice patients receive care in whatever setting they call ‘home’ – which includes private residences, assisted living communities, hospitals and long-term-care facilities. In some instances hospice is a ‘place’ for people whose pain cannot be adequately managed in their home setting.

Truth:  Studies show exactly the opposite. Although hospice care neither hastens death nor prolongs life, patients with certain illnesses actually live somewhat longer with hospice care than those with the same illness who don’t choose hospice care. And regardless of the illness, patient/family satisfaction with services received are consistently higher when hospice is involved.

Truth:  Your family doctor or specialist is encouraged to remain engaged in your care. The Hospice Physician works closely with your doctor – who knows you better (medically) than anyone else – to determine the specific medical needs that will be addressed in your individual plan of care.

Truth:  While it is the physician’s responsibility to determine whether a patient meets the medical eligibility criteria to receive hospice services, it is appropriate for the patient (or caregiver) to initiate the discussion if they choose. Since hospices consistently hear from their patients/families that they wish they had gotten hospice care sooner, it is a good idea to let the physician know AT THE TIME OF DIAGNOSIS that you are open to discussing hospice care at the appropriate time.

Truth:   You are free to leave a hospice program at any time for any reason without penalty. You can re-enroll in a hospice program any time that you meet the medical eligibility criteria.

Truth:  While the hospice team will provide all aspects of care for the illness that qualifies you for hospice services, you are still free to seek treatment for unrelated illnesses or conditions. For example, if you are receiving hospice care for heart disease, you can still get treatment for a broken bone.

Truth:  The purpose and benefit of hospice care is to allow for a peaceful passing in a comfortable and familiar setting like home with loved ones near. While many people wish to have a DNR to avoid unnecessary medical intervention and hospitalization, you are not required to have a DNR to receive hospice care.