Our Mission in Hospice Care
Providing the Highest Quality of Care to Our Patients, Their Families, & Our Referring Sources.
THE SUNCREST DIFFERENCE
THE SUNCREST DIFFERENCE
THE SUNCREST DIFFERENCE
THE SUNCREST DIFFERENCE
THE SUNCREST DIFFERENCE
THE SUNCREST DIFFERENCE
Hospice Care
When to Refer
Hospice referral should be made when the physician has determined that they patients life expectancy could be less than six months. Often times referral to hospice is support by key indicated such as:
- Poor performance status
- Declining cognitive status
- Advanced age
- Poor nutritional status
- Weight Loss
- Pressure ulcers
- Comorbidities
- Previous hospital admissions for acute decompensation.
Hospice Care
How to Refer
Hospice referrals are usually made by physicians and clinicians but are sometime driven by families.
Hospice referrals can be called in to any Suncrest hospice or faxed. The Suncrest team will take the information and contact the doctors office for more information and set up a time to meet with Patient and family.
Levels of Care
With Suncrest Hospice
Routine Home Care
- Most common level of care in hospice. Patient is generally stable and the patient’s symptoms, like pain or nausea and vomiting, are adequately controlled.
- Usually provided in the home.
General Inpatient Care
- Crisis-like level of care for short-term management of out of control patient pain and/or symptoms
- Usually provided outside the home, in an inpatient setting at a medical facility like a hospital or skilled nursing facility.
Continuous Home Care
- Crisis-like level of care for short-term management of out of control patient pain and/or symptoms
- Usually provided in the home.
Respite Care
- A level of temporary care provided in nursing home, hospice inpatient facility, or hospital so that a family member or friend who’s the patient’s caregiver can take some time off.
- This level of care is tied to caregiver needs, not patient symptoms.
FAQs
What's the difference between Hospice, Home Health Care Services, & Palliative Care?
Hospice is for patients with a limited life expectancy, who are no longer receiving curative treatments for any terminal illness.
Home health care services are available for patients who have rehabilitation potential and who can actively participate in therapy. Home health may help patients get better from an illness or injury.
Palliative care is a form of home health care in which patients face chronic or quality of life-limiting illnesses and focuses on the relief of symptoms, pain, and stress. Patients may receive curative treatments.
What is hospice care, and does Medicare cover it?
Hospice is a type of care designed to provide comfort and support to individuals with a terminal illness. Medicare covers hospice services for eligible beneficiaries.
How do I qualify for hospice benefits under Medicare?
To qualify, a patient must be eligible for Medicare Part A, have a terminal illness with a life expectancy of six months or less, and choose comfort-focused care over curative treatment.
What services does Medicare cover under hospice care?
Medicare covers a range of services, including nursing care, prescription drugs for symptom control and pain relief, counseling services for emotional support, and other support services.
Does Medicare cover hospice care in a nursing home or other facility?
Yes, Medicare covers hospice care in various settings, including a person’s home, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other long-term care settings.
Do I have to give up my regular Medicare benefits if I choose hospice?
No, choosing hospice does not mean giving up all Medicare benefits. Medicare still covers treatment for health issues unrelated to the terminal illness.
How long can I receive hospice care under Medicare?
Medicare provides hospice care as long as the patient’s condition continues to meet the eligibility criteria and the doctor certifies that they have a life expectancy of six months or less.
Can I leave hospice and return to curative treatment if my condition improves?
Yes, a patient can stop hospice care at any time and return to standard Medicare coverage or other health insurance if their condition improves or if they choose to pursue curative treatment.
Are there any out-of-pocket costs for hospice care under Medicare?
While Medicare covers most hospice costs, there may be minimal co-payments for prescription drugs and respite care. However, these costs are generally low.
Can I still see my regular doctor while on hospice?
Yes, patients on hospice can continue to see their regular doctor for conditions unrelated to the terminal illness. The hospice team will work with the patient’s primary care physician to ensure comprehensive care.
How does the Medicare hospice benefit interact with other insurance coverage?
Medicare is the primary payer for hospice services, but if a patient has other insurance, it may cover additional services or help with costs not covered by Medicare. It’s essential to check with the specific insurance provider for details.
