Hospice care is for patients with a life-limiting illness as determined by their physician. Hospice care is not curative in nature, but focuses on comfort and the enhancement of quality of life. The admission process begins with a referral to hospice which may be made by any family member, friend, caregiver, or medical professional.
During the referral process, members of the hospice team will meet with the patient and caregivers to discuss the philosophy and focus of hospice care and determine the needs and goals of the patient and caregivers. If hospice is the appropriate choice, the admission process will follow.
Electing hospice care does not require changing physicians. You may elect to have your primary care physician continue to provide care, working together with the hospice team.