In an ideal world, everyone living with a serious illness would understand what hospice care involves and when it might be appropriate.
But this isn’t an ideal world, and far too many Salt Lake City patients don’t consider the alternative to conventional medical care soon enough. Quite a few end up receiving hospice services for a week or less – and some pass away without accessing hospice care at all.
Education is the key to turning that around. Health care providers often fail to discuss hospice early in the treatment process, when the end of life should be an important topic of conversation. In light of this, we’re making it a priory to provide the information everyone needs. If a loved one has been diagnosed with a serious, potentially life-limiting illness, learning how hospice care differs from conventional medical care can help ensure they receive the right support at the right time.
The Goal of Care
With conventional medicine, the primary goal is to diagnose, treat and help prevent illnesses, diseases and conditions. Following the customary model of medical care, patients may see doctors, nurses and therapists, and practitioners take a patient-centered approach to help people regain their health.
Hospice involves some of the same elements – the multidisciplinary team of skilled professionals and the patient-led plan of care – but the focus isn’t on finding a cure or prolonging life. The goal of hospice care is to provide comfort, support and peace of mind at the end of life, when that’s what matters most.
The Location of Care
Conventional medical care, as you’re no doubt aware, is typically provided at a doctor’s office, health clinic or the hospital. Some Salt Lake City patients receive in-home care, but this isn’t the norm.
With hospice care, it is – most patients get the care they need in the comfort of their own homes. Or, if they happen to be living with a relative, at a nursing home or in a residential care facility, that’s where hospice services are provided. When necessary, patients can stay at a hospital or hospice facility, but the objective is always for them to return home.
The Types of Care
When it comes to serious illnesses, the conventional medical approach often involves surgery, chemotherapy and other invasive procedures. And as time goes on, more aggressive treatments are often prescribed.
In contrast, hospice primarily focuses on palliative treatments to improve patient comfort and provide emotional support. Medication, pain management and complementary therapies like massage, art and music help keep symptoms at bay – and both hospice patients and their families can take advantage of grief counseling services. Plus, hospice professionals help connect people with Salt Lake City support groups and any other local resources they need.
Who Should Consider Hospice Care?
When first diagnosed with a serious illness, conventional medical care makes sense. Many conditions can be cured, after all, and patients can get a new lease on life after treatment. We wish everyone could enjoy that outcome, but that isn’t the case – and when someone’s health is on the decline, hospice care is often appropriate.
Hospice is generally recommended when a patient is believed to have a life expectancy of six months or less if their illness progresses as expected. And while many people seem to think that hospice care is only for cancer patients, those diagnosed with other terminal illnesses and life-limiting diseases are eligible. If an individual’s condition is no longer responsive to curative treatments and they’re ready to embrace comfort and symptom management instead of continuing to search for a remedy, hospice is an option.
What about the expense? Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance providers cover the cost of hospice care services for those who qualify – and all of the medications, medical equipment and supplies needed for in-home care are also provided.
Does a Loved One Have a Life-Limiting Illness?
Ultimately, if a loved one has a serious illness, they may benefit from hospice care at some point – and they may need your help making difficult decisions about the end stages of their life. Being well-informed is of paramount importance, and by learning about hospice, you’ll be ready to offer guidance and support.
If you have any questions along the way, the Suncrest team in Salt Lake City is always here to answer them. In our opinion, it’s never too soon to ask for help. Your loved one may not be in favor of or eligible for hospice now, but a decline in health can happen suddenly with a life-limiting illness. Give us a call, and we’d be happy to come out and discuss the right time for hospice care.
Hospice is a choice – and patients also have the freedom to select the local hospice agency they prefer. Suncrest is known for providing high-quality care with a kind, comforting and gentle touch, and we’re here for anyone who is nearing the end of life and ready for a compassionate alternative to conventional medical care.
For more information, or to schedule a hospice care consultation, contact Suncrest in Salt Lake City, Utah, today.
