What is hospice?
Hospice is a special
kind of care that focuses on improving the quality of life for
those with a life-limiting illness. Our specially-trained Care
Teams work to control pain and other symptoms, as well as provide
emotional and spiritual support for patients and their families.
This is known as palliative care.
Who can
benefit from hospice?
Anyone of any age,
ethnicity, or religion, who is diagnosed with any illness with
a limited life expectancy, and who chooses not to continue aggressive
medical treatment, can benefit from hospice.
Can hospice
care be provided at home?
Yes. Most hospice patients
receive care in the comfort of their homes surrounded by family
and friends. Our Care Teams offer guidance and support so that
family members are able to provide much of the care themselves.
In addition, hospice care is also given in nursing homes, assisted
living facilities, and hospitals. Our inpatient Care Centers located
in Boca Raton and Hollywood are available for acute care and pain/symptom
management.
Who is
on a Hospice By The Sea Care Team?
Our specially-trained
Care Teams are devoted to providing an individualized plan of
care to meet each patient’s needs. A Spanish-speaking Care
Team, knowledgeable and sensitive to traditions and customs, meets
the special needs of our Hispanic population. Care Team members
include:
· The patient’s
personal physician
· Hospice physicians
· Nurses
· Certified Nursing Assistants
· Pharmacist
· Social Workers
· Therapists
· Volunteers
· Spiritual Care Counselors
· Bereavement Counselors
How is
hospice paid for?
Hospice services are
covered by Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance policies with
a hospice benefit, and/or by private pay. Care is provided without
regard to financial status.
How do
hospice services get started?
Anyone--physician,
family member, or friend--can contact us about beginning hospice
services. Patients and family members are encouraged to discuss
choosing hospice with their physician, or to call Hospice By The
Sea for more information.