FAQs

What is hospice?

In home hospice care not only provides treatment for pain and symptoms, our care providers help to bring peace, dignity and comfort to the patient and family.  Hospice helps to assure that the moments at the end are not just the last, but some of the best.  There are a variety of available services. 

Does the patient have to be homebound to receive hospice care?

No.  Patients are not required to be homebound.  Hospice Circle of Love encourages those we serve to make the most out of the end of life.  Many of our patients travel to visit family and continue in activities they enjoy away from home.

Can someone who is pursuing aggressive treatment benefit?

Although someone who is continuing aggressive treatment of the illness can not be admitted to hospice there is a program available for those individuals.  The Care Connection is a program for people living at home who are having aggressive treatment of a life-threatening illness. 

What happens if a patient decides to pursue more treatment options after being admitted to hospice?

Hospice encourages patients and families to make their own choices.  If an individual chooses to try more aggressive treatment or if improvement in the condition occurs, the patient will simply be discharged or they may revoke their hospice benefit.  A patient can be readmitted later if desired.

How is Hospice Funded?

Hospice is provided without charge to the patient and family.  Hospice Circle of Love bills Medicare or private insurance.  If the patient does not have these benefits, costs are covered by funds from donations, memorials and fundraisers.

Must someone be with the patient in the home at all times?

In order to be enrolled in hospice the patient must have a primary caregiver who agrees to care for them in the home.  However, if it is safe for the patient to be alone, a caregiver is not required to be with the patient at all times.

Does hospice do anything to make death come sooner?

Hospice does not do anything to shorten or prolong the patient’s life.

What type of assistance does hospice provide home-based patients?

Hospice patients are cared for by a team of nurses, nursing assistants, social workers, musical therapists, physical therapists, spiritual caregivers and volunteers.  Each provides assistance based on his or her area of expertise.  In addition, hospice provides medications, supplies, equipment and additional helpers in the home, as appropriate.  

How does hospice manage pain?

Hospice nurses are up-to-date on the latest medications and devices for pain and symptom relief.  In addition, hospice staff assists patients to be as mobile and self-sufficient as possible.  Chaplains and a counselor are available to assist with emotional and spiritual pain.  Hospice’s success rate for battling pain is very high.