What is Hospice Care?
For individuals in the end stage of life. Care is focused on pain and symptom relief instead of treatment. Hospice workers and volunteers help clients live their remaining days in comfort and dignity. Services are available only to individuals who have come to a mutual decision with their doctor to enter a hospice program.
What services are generally offered?
Hospice care is most often provided in a person’s home. It is also available in many nursing homes and assisted living facilities. A team of health care professionals and trained volunteers provide support and guidance to patients and their families. Individuals and their families participate fully in end of life decisions and can opt out at any time to return to more traditional medical care.
How do I pay for hospice care?
Medicare and most private insurance plans include hospice care as a benefit. Due to community contributions, memorial donations, and foundation gifts many hospices are sometimes able to provide free services to persons with limited resources. Other programs charge patients in accordance with their ability to pay. In some cases, Medicaid can also be used to pay for certain services such as home care or respite services.
How do I choose a hospice program?
Please contact your local NY Connects to learn more about Hospice and for help in locating a program in your area.