HMC's Agencies

Hospice is a special program of caring for people who are terminally ill, as well as their families. This care includes physical, emotional, and spiritual care. It is for all age groups - children, adults, and the elderly - during their final stages of life. How does Hospice work? An interdisciplinary team of professionals will help care for you. T... his team includes your family, a doctor, a registered nurse, a social worker, a chaplain, a home health aide, volunteers, and grief counselors. What type of care is given on the Hospice program? The care that Hospice provides is designed to help you make the most of the last months of life by giving you comfort and relief from pain. The focus is on caring, not curing. Is Hospice care for cancer patients only? No. Hospice care is for any person who has a terminal diagnosis. Who pays for Hospice? Hospice care is covered under Medicare Part A, Medicaid, and most health insurance policy. Where can I receive Hospice care? Hospice care can be provided wherever the patient is - at home, assisted living facility, nursing home, hospital...anywhere. What if I get better? Sometimes, a terminally-ill patient's health improves or their illness goes into remission. If that occurs, your doctor may recommend that you are no longer in need of Hospice care and may discharge you from the Hospice program. If your health should decline again, your doctor may readmit you into Hospice care.Read More