Choosing Between Hospice Care & Palliative Care: An In-depth Look at Your Options
Recently I wrote an article for family members of patients who could benefit from hospice care and/or palliative care, in which I discussed the factors that physicians must consider in referring hospice or palliative care options to their patients. In this article, I will explore the topic in greater depth, discussing the similarities as well as the differences between the two primary options: hospital-based palliative care and traditional hospice-based palliative care. Hospital-Based Palliative Care Hospital-based palliative care comes into...Read the rest of this article »Related Articles
The Importance of Partnering with Physicians in End of Life Care
The Physician’s Role The decision to enroll in hospice services can be difficult for patients and families, and may reflect a reluctance to accept a terminal diagnosis. The physician pays a central role in helping patients and families make the switch from life-prolonging treatment, when it is no longer appropriate, to an approach focused on end-of-life care goals. Patients need assurance that no matter what treatment option is chosen, the goal of comfort will always be paramount. The topic...Read the rest of this article »Related Articles
Hospice & Palliative Care: Where's the Common Ground?
Receiving “The News” A person faced with a new diagnosis that is life-limiting is generally overwhelmed. Everything has changed, and nothing will ever be the same. All of the grief stages can come into play: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and ultimately, acceptance. The person might wonder, Why me? Why now? Can I beat this? The situation can become overwhelming when coupled with confusing medical jargon about palliative care and hospice care. Let’s start by clarifying the care options that...Read the rest of this article »Related Articles
Death by Hospital
As a professional geriatric care manager, client death is an occupational hazard. I try to maintain a level of professional “distance” from my clients in order to see the situation objectively. Occasionally there is a client who becomes especially dear to me in spite of my good intentions. One such client recently died. In this particular case, my client had no nearby family. I was her frequent companion, her friend, a surrogate family member when one was needed for...Read the rest of this article »Related Articles
Hospice: Frequently Asked Questions
Editor’s Note: This information appears courtesy of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO). It has been adapted for GilbertGuide.com. When should a decision about entering a hospice program be made—and who should make it? At any time during a life-limiting illness, it’s appropriate to discuss all of a patient’s care options, including hospice. By law the decision belongs to the patient. Understandably, most people are uncomfortable with the idea of stopping an all-out effort to “beat” their...Read the rest of this article »Related Articles
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