When a Philadelphia physician or hospital caseworker refers someone to hospice care, they typically share a list of local hospice providers. Patients and their families can then compare the options and decide which agency they prefer.
If you’re in this position, looking for hospice services for a loved one, having the ability to choose a provider is beneficial. However, figuring out where to turn for hospice care may not be that easy. All agencies that are Medicare-certified are required to offer the same basic services – and since most Philadelphia hospice providers work within the guidelines set by Medicare, that really doesn’t help narrow the options.
So, as you consider the hospice agencies in the area, how do you go about finding the best one to care for your loved one? Here’s what you should consider.
Qualifications of Hospice Providers
Philadelphia patients who are enrolled in Medicare must receive hospice care services from a Medicare-certified provider. This is common knowledge among physicians and caseworkers who work with the terminally ill, so if you were given a list of local hospice providers, they all likely have Medicare certification. But, confirming this is a good idea. And, of course, if your loved one is covered by Medicaid or has a private insurance plan, you’ll want to make sure the agencies on the list accept that type of coverage.
Next, it’s important to verify that each of the Philadelphia hospice providers you’re considering is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. If an agency doesn’t have a license, strike it off the list.
At this point, we suggest considering accreditation. In the world of hospice care, there are two accrediting agencies recognized as reliable authorities: the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) and Community Health Accreditation Partner (CHAP). Some local providers, including Suncrest Hospice, have these forms of accreditation – and since that shows dedication to providing quality care, you can use this credential to narrow down your list.
Differences in Hospice Care Programs
Although most agencies offer the same basic services, this doesn’t mean any hospice care provider will suffice. When choosing from the many Philadelphia providers, you should also consider how each one differs. To that end, you’ll want to take the following into account:
- How long has the agency been in business?
- What is their process for vetting and training employees?
- Do the staff members take part in ongoing training?
- Does the provider have a 24-hour hotline for emergencies?
- Are the on-call hospice nurses located close to your loved one?
In regards to the last two questions, it’s crucial to find a hospice provider who can respond quickly in the event of a crisis. Some larger agencies work with patients in more than one county, and depending on where their nurses live, they may have to travel quite a distance to reach your loved one.
Once you’ve considered the operational details, you’ll need to see if the hospice care providers who are still on your list have any limitations on their services. For example, you might find that some agencies are only able to provide home health care a few nights per week or at certain times of the day. Based on your loved one’s situation, this type of arrangement might not meet their needs.
As you’re searching for the right hospice provider, you might also need to consider other factors. If your loved one requires nurses who speak Spanish, for instance, or if you’re looking for an agency that provides integrated services like art and music therapy, these details might help you determine where to go for hospice care.
Finding a Reputable Hospice Provider
After considering everything above, you might have a shorter list – or you may even be left with just one hospice provider. In any case, it’s important to look at the reputation of an agency before you make a commitment. The experiences other people have had can shed light on how a hospice provider operates, and that will help you determine whether or not they’re the right agency to care for your loved one. To research a hospice care provider’s reputation, you can:
- Talk to people you trust. Friends, relatives, neighbors and coworkers who have used hospice services should have an opinion of the agency they chose.
- Read third-party reviews. Outside sources can provide you with an objective look at the overall quality of care and performance of a local hospice agency.
- Consider testimonials. As testimonials are essentially endorsements from satisfied individuals, they can give you further insight on a hospice provider.
By now, you may be ready to make a decision – but you can always consult with more than one local agency. For your loved one to have the best possible experience with hospice care, you need a compassionate and supportive provider. By meeting in person, you can make sure that the company you choose is a good fit.
If you’re in need of a hospice provider in Philadelphia, Suncrest Hospice is an agency you can trust for quality care. For more information on our company, or to discuss hospice care services for your loved one, contact us today.
