Myths and Facts About Hospice Care

Families and patients often tell us that they “wish they had called us sooner.” Once people experience the benefits of hospice, they understand that its focus is on comfort and quality of life. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions surrounding hospice care. Here are some common myths about hospice and the truth behind its goals and objectives.

Myth: Hospice care is only for the dying.
Fact: Hospice is not about dying, it’s about keeping patients living life to the fullest, with the time they have left. Studies have proved that patients with terminal diagnoses often live longer and have a better quality of life with hospice care.

Myth: Hospice care is expensive.
Fact: Hospice is fully covered by Medicare/Medicaid. It is also covered by many private insurance companies. Most families incur no financial burden from hospice.

Myth: Choosing hospice care is indefinite.
Fact: Patients and families can revoke hospice care at any given time. Instances such as an improvement in condition or a decision to pursue other measures of care lend themselves to the termination of hospice. Patients can reapply for care at any time.

Myth: Hospice and Palliative care are the same.
Fact: While both types of care are offered during serious illness, they are not the same. Hospice begins once the decision to end treatment for a terminal illness is made and palliative care generally begins at diagnosis and happens at the same time as treatment.

Myth: Only doctors can refer patients for hospice care.
Fact: Anyone can make a referral. Family, nurses, clergy, etc.