Introduction:

The vast majority of terminally ill patients report wanting to pass away in their own homes. Medical facilities are the leading cause of death in the United States. More than half of those who planned to die at home did not do so in Dartmouth
research. Why? The lack of knowledge about available choices is often to blame.
They aren't equipped with the knowledge necessary to make a choice that
reflects their values. The more people who know what hospice is, the better.
And the meaning of hospice care at home.

When Does Hospice Care Occur in the Home?

To begin hospice care at home, a physician referral is required. Hospice referrals can come from physicians, family members, or even the patient themselves, which may surprise you. A hospice team member will visit you and your loved ones after you have
been referred to them. Hospice's advantages are outlined, and a care team is
assembled now.

There are numerous people involved in this care team, such as:

• Doctors

• Nurses

• Healthcare Aides

• Community Organizers

• Counselors

• Chaplains

A healthcare strategy is developed when the team has been assembled. The first step is collecting all necessary drugs and medical equipment. They will also advise you on Medicare and hospice coverage.

Considerations for House Calls:

• Members of the team will visit you frequently while you are receiving hospice care at home.

• Nurses will be performing evaluations and dispensing medications. Those in need can get assistance from social workers. And if you have chaplains on your team, they may offer comfort and guidance to everyone involved.

• The hospice staff will coordinate nursing visits and help with routine tasks like taking a shower and personal care, with the patient's family.

• As the patient's condition worsens, hospice workers may visit more frequently, eventually providing around-the-clock care.

In-House Hospice Care Is an Option.

A "hospice house" or similar facility may serve as a "home" for some patients, while a skilled nursing facility may serve as a "home" for others. Wherever a patient calls hospice care
services at home will follow.

The Family Still Benefits from Hospice Care:

Even after the hospice patient dies, the team supports the family. Helping with burial plans and paperwork, offering bereavement care, and pointing the grieving to local support groups are all ways to do this. Camps for kids at a hospice or
similar programs are available for those who have lost a parent or other close
relative.

Preparing for Hospice Care at Home:

Admission to hospice care occurs after the necessary paperwork is completed and admissions orders are received. Both the patient's primary care physician and the hospice physician are kept apprised of the hospice patient's medical history, present
physical symptoms, and prognosis.

The team's chaplain and social worker make emotional, psychological, and spiritual assessments during their in-person visits.

• Team members are expected to pay regular visits.

• Delivery of any necessary medical devices to the patient's residence

• They provide delivery of any prescribed medications

Conclusion:

You will no longer receive curative or life-prolonging treatments when you enter hospice care. Instead, you'll receive care that minimizes discomfort for as long as feasible.