Common Misconceptions About Hospice

with Regency SouthernCare Hospice

Separating Fact From Myth

Choosing hospice care can be a difficult decision for patients and their families and there are a lot of misconceptions about the service. As a result, many who need quality pain and symptom control, along with social and emotional care, do not take advantage of hospice services. Here are some myths and facts to consider when thinking about using hospice.

MYTH: Hospice is a place. FACT: Regency SouthernCare Hospice provides services wherever a patient needs care. This can be in a facility, nursing home or the privacy of the patient’s home.
MYTH: Hospice is for those who are close to death or actively dying. FACT: The earlier hospice is used, the more benefit patients get from the care. Pain and symptom management are more effective when delivered earlier in the disease process. This leads to higher quality of life for patients with life- limiting conditions. Earlier admission allows for more opportunity to provide meaningful and comprehensive care.
MYTH: Hospice is only for cancer patients. FACT: Any patient with a terminal diagnosis can benefit from hospice. Examples include HIV, Kidney disease, Heart disease and Alzheimer’s.
MYTH: A patient must sign a DNR to use hospice. FACT: Patients do not need a Do Not Resuscitate order (DNR) to receive hospice care. While many hospice patients sign a DNR, this choice is not for everyone.
MYTH: Patients have to give up their doctor. FACT: Patients choosing hospice keep their own physician. The primary care physician works with our interdisciplinary team and medical director to determine the best plan of care
MYTH: Hospice is expensive. FACT: Hospice is a Medicare Benefit and most private insurance and Medicaid will also cover services. In addition, medical equipment and prescriptions related to the life-limiting condition are covered under these benefits.

To read this full article in our Spring 2022 edition of Atomic Health News, click here.