What is Hospice Care?
Hospice is a unique concept of care that seeks to meet the medical, emotional and spiritual needs of individuals with a limited life expectancy. A team of healthcare professionals design an individual plan for each patient to meet these needs, while focusing on managing symptoms and controlling pain, rather than curing or treating disease. Hospice also recognizes the special needs of family and loved ones by providing extensive support and resources. The care plan is focused on creating the highest quality of life, so that time remaining is spent comfortable and engaged. Services may include providing medications and equipment, assistance with activities of daily living (i.e. bathing, hygiene care, light housekeeping and meal preparation), wound care, dietary counseling, grief counseling, and physical therapy, along with many other services.
Where does hospice care take place?
One goal of hospice is to enable the patient to remain in the comfort of their home. The hospice team will go to where the patient lives. Support and relief is provided to caregivers and family to help alleviate the burden associated with end of life care.
Who is eligible?
Hospice care is available to individuals diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and have chosen not to seek curative medical treatment. The patient's doctor or a hospice physician must confirm that in their best judgement, the life expectancy can be stated in terms of months, instead of years. The Island Hospice Team serves the Honolulu community, and will provide full services regardless of the ability to pay.
Who pays for hospice care?
Hospice care is a Medicare (Part A) benefit. Medications, oxygen, equipment, and all other services rendered related to the primary diagnosis are covered under the benefit. Most insurance plans also provide similar coverage. There are no co-payments or add-on costs. We strongly believe that no one should be denied quality care, and as such, Island Hospice will provide full hospice services regardless of the ability to pay.
Who is on the Hospice Team?
The Hospice Team includes:
How do I get more information?
For additional answers to your questions, or if you would like to start the admission process for yourself or a loved one, please call 808.550.2552.