BENEFITS OF EARLY ADMISSION
A BETTER
QUALITY OF LIFE
“The Commission has previously expressed concern about very short hospice stays. More than one-quarter of hospice decedents enroll in hospice services only in the last week of life, a length of stay which is commonly thought to be of less benefit to patients than enrolling somewhat earlier.” (MEDPAC Report, March 2016, Chap. 11) – Medicare Payment Advisory Commision
CHOOSING HOSPICE
EARLIER MEANS…
For The Patient
- Compassion and dignity with an individualized plan of care focused on comfort
- Clinical excellence for pain and symptom management where you live
- Decreased stress levels to positively affect quality of life
- Comprehensive care that incorporates mind, body, and spirit
- Reduction in unnecessary re-admissions to hospital / ER visits
- Help with focusing on and developing personal goals before death
- Preparation and coordination of advance directives.
- Reduced stress of traveling back and forth to the hospital
For the Patient and Family
- More control of the situation
- Emotional and spiritual support for grief and counseling
- Have closure with everyone together
- Become knowledgeable and comfortable with the dying process
- Expert assistance and time to prepare for personal and financial matters
- Save on expenses for medication, equipment, and supplies related to the terminal condition
For the Family
- Able to observe their loved one in a more comfortable state during a difficult time
- Opportunity to improve the quality of life of their loved one for the time that remains
- Learn to assist in caring for their loved one
- Develop relationship with a bereavement counselor earlier during a difficult time