Myth Busters
Hospice began as a response to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and families faced with a life-limiting illness. And yet today, many people are unaware that this support is available. In fact, one study shows that out of every 100 people that are eligible, only 20 patients experience the benefits of hospice care. A big reason for this is a lack of understanding.
There are many myths concerning Hospice care. The following list will help to "Bust" some of these ideas in a true/false format:
The Hospice benefit only lasts for six months.
False. Hospice is not just for the last few days or weeks of life. The benefit is designed to provide care for the last six months of life. However the benefit is not limited to six months, as long as the patient meets the eligibility requirements for hospice, they can be recertified and continue to receive hospice care.
Hospice is 100% covered by Medicare Part A and Medicaid.
True. Hospice is a fully covered Medicare benefit for all eligible patients, with no out-of-pocket expense. Hospice also is fully covered by Medicaid and most commercial insurances.
Hospice is a place.
False. Hospice is not a place - it's a service. Hospice brings physical, emotional, and spiritual care and support to wherever our patients call home. This can be a personal residence, nursing home, assisted living facility, hospital, or other location of choice.
Hospice only provides care and support for the patient.
False. Hospice care is designed to support the entire family. In fact, hospice doesn't stop with the patient. Mission Hospice offers bereavement services for 13 months following the passing of a loved one, providing valuable counseling and support.
Hospice is only for people who have cancer.
False. Hospice is designed to provide care for patients with a terminal diagnosis in the last stages of life. This care is extended to both the individual patient and to the family. Some common diagnoses are: ALS, Cancer, Dementia, HIV/AIDS, Heart Disease, Liver Disease, End Stage Parkinson’s, Pulmonary Disease, Renal Failure, Stroke and Failure to Thrive.
The Hospice benefit includes an entire team of professionals.
True. Hospice isn't just one person. It's a team of physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, nursing assistants, volunteers, and other professionals who work together to meet the individual needs of each patient and family.
Hospice care means that I've given up.
False. We believe that hospice is about living and not about dying. Life is meant to be lived and our goal is to make every day of our patient’s life as good as it can be.
I can call Hospice 24/7 for any concerns or changes in my loved one's condition.
True. We know that during this difficult time it is imperative that we have trained team members standing by to assist you 24 hours a day 7 days a week. There is never an inconvenient time to speak with us. Every time you call us you will talk to one of our valued team members.
All hospices are the same.
False. Just like with hospitals, physicians, and other professional services, all hospices are not the same. Different hospices have different levels of expertise, philosophies of care, and approaches to supporting patients and families. Mission Hospice is committed to providing warm compassionate care. It is a privilege to walk with you and your loved one during this difficult time. We realize that you have a choice and we value the trust that is placed in our hands on a daily basis.
