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When should a decision about entering a hospice program be made, and who should make it?
It is appropriate to discuss all care options, including hospice, at any time during a life-limiting illness. The decision belongs to the patient. Hospice of the Valley staff members are available to help with the discussion. View "When is it Time."
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Should I wait for our physician to suggest hospice or should I bring it up first?
The patient and family should feel free to discuss hospice care at any time with their physician, other healthcare professionals, clergy and friends. If your physician is not familiar with hospice, invite him or her to call us at 602.530.6900. Or ask us to contact your physician.
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How are admissions handled?
A phone call to Hospice of the Valley -- 602.530.6900 -- is all that is needed to begin the admission process. The agency will contact the patient’s physician for confirmation that hospice care is appropriate at this time.
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How is Hospice of the Valley different from other hospices?
Three factors make Hospice of the Valley unique. We offer the highest quality care customized to individual patients and programs for specific diseases. Our staff is nationally known for its expertise. We are open 24/7 -- with staff members who are on duty, not on call. For more information, click here.
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Is there any special equipment to buy or changes I have to make in my home before hospice care begins?
Hospice of the Valley will assess your needs, recommend any necessary equipment and help make arrangements to obtain it. Equipment such as wheelchairs, oxygen and hospital beds are covered by the Medicare hospice benefit and insurance plans.
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How much does hospice care cost?
There is no out-of-pocket cost to the patient. Hospice services are covered by Medicare, most insurance plans and some AHCCCS plans (Arizona's healthcare plan for the poor). Because Hospice of the Valley is not-for-profit, no one is ever denied care because of financial need. Click here for more information.
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Is Hospice of the Valley a place?
Hospice is a philosophy of care that focuses on maintaining the dignity and comfort of the patient and supporting the family. Most Hospice of the Valley patients are served in their own homes. Some are cared for in group homes, assisted living or skilled nursing facilities. Hospice inpatient units also are available for patients whose symptoms can't be managed at home.
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Can a hospice patient who shows signs of recovery go off hospice and resume regular medical treatment?
Certainly. If the patient's condition improves, the patient can be discharged from hospice and return to getting regular treatment. If a discharged patient elects to return later to hospice care, that's also ok. Medicare allows people to go on and off hospice as needed.
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Does hospice do anything to make death come sooner?
Hospice of the Valley does nothing to speed up or slow down the dying process. Just as doctors and midwives lend support and expertise during the time of childbirth, so hospice provides its presence and specialized knowledge during the natural dying process.
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How does hospice manage pain?
Hospice of the Valley nurses and doctors are experts on the latest medications and devices for pain and symptom relief. They are often joined by specialists in music therapy, massage, nutrition counseling and other therapies. Hospice of the Valley believes that emotional and spiritual pain is just as real and in need of attention as physical pain. Counselors, including chaplains, are available to assist family members as well as patients. With a combination of medications, counseling and therapies, most patients can attain an acceptable level of comfort.
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Will my doctor still be my doctor once I am on hospice care?
Hospice of the Valley functions as an extension of, not in place of, the patient’s attending physician. The agency also has medical directors available Valleywide to help patients who have no physician or need physician home visits.
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Does hospice provide help to the family after the patient dies?
Hospice of the Valley provides continuing contact and support for family and friends for at least a year following the death of a loved one. Grief support groups are offered to anyone in the community who has experienced the death of a family member, a friend or a loved one.
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