We live in a world full of myths…like the one that says Napoleon was short. He was actually 5’7″, which would make him average height for his time. Another myth is that bulls hate red. But bulls are color blind and it’s the motion of the bull fighter’s cloth that is a perceived threat.
As hospice providers, we know that there are a myriad of myths out there about the care we offer. We want to take a moment and dispel some of the most common hospice myths.
Myth: Hospice means giving up.
Fact: Hospice helps patients and their families reclaim the spirit of life. Hospice care focuses on improving the patient’s quality of life – allowing them to make the most of the time they have.
Myth: Choosing hospice means giving up all medical treatment.
Fact: Some medical treatments are still available on hospice. Hospice strives to decrease the burden of medical interventions when those measures will not improve quality of life.
Myth: Once a patient chooses hospice, he or she can no longer receive care from their primary physician.
Fact: Hospice works closely with the patient’s primary care physician as a member of the hospice team. The patient can continue to see their primary care physician.
Myth: If you go on hospice, you will die very soon.
Fact: Receiving hospice care does not mean that death is imminent. Studies have shown that patients who elect hospice care earlier, often live longer than those who continue to receive curative treatment. The hospice benefit is designed for patients who have a life expectancy of approximately six months. However as long as the patient continues to meet hospice requirements, they may continue to receive services – even if this is longer than six months.
Myth: Hospice is a place.
Fact: Hospice takes place wherever you live. Hospice is a type of care that comes to you and includes medical, emotional and spiritual support and expertise.
Myth: Hospice doesn’t allow caregivers to be involved in treatment decisions.
Fact: Hospice puts patients and families at the center of care. We seek to empower caregivers with information, so that they can be an active part of the process.
Myth: Patients are not eligible for hospice again if they revoke the hospice benefit.
Fact: A patient may choose to revoke the hospice benefit at any point in time, and then choose to once again receive hospice services at any point in the future.
Myth: Only doctors can refer patients to hospice.
Fact: You do not need a doctor to refer you to hospice. While anyone can make a referral, a physician’s order is required for admission. The hospice team that you choose will know who to consult on your behalf for hospice eligibility.
Don’t let the myths of hospice prevent you or your loved ones from receiving the care they deserve when it matters most. Contact us today and we will be more than happy to help answer any questions you may have.