At some point in life, you or a loved one may need extra care after a hospitalization or support as the end of life nears. With so many options, it can be hard to know what kind of care is right for your situation. To help, we answer some of the most common questions.
Is home care the same as hospice?
No, they’re different. Home care provides medical treatments and therapy at home after a hospital stay or surgery. This includes things like wound care, IV therapy and help with bathing. The goal is to help patients heal and avoid another hospital visit.
Hospice focuses on comfort and quality of life for people with serious illnesses who are expected to live 6 months or less if the disease follows its normal course. “This includes everything from pain management to emotional and spiritual care,” explains Sarah Browning, senior director at Carilion Clinic Home Care and Hospice. A team of doctors, nurses, specialists, social workers, chaplains and volunteers work together to make the end-of-life experience as comfortable as possible for everyone.
Are home care and hospice covered by insurance?
Usually, yes. Home care and hospice are often covered by Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance. Your care team can help you check your benefits and explain the qualifications for both types of care.
Is hospice only for end-of-life care?
Hospice is for patients who likely have less than 6 months to live. This type of care focuses on comfort and helping patients and families make the most of this stage of life.
But hospice doesn’t always mean it’s the very end. “Patients can leave hospice services at any time, whether to seek curative treatment or for other reasons. And about 15% of patients see their conditions improve while on hospice, so choosing hospice care doesn’t always equate to a person’s final days of life,” says Sarah.
Does hospice care have to happen in a hospital?
No. Hospice isn’t a place—it’s a type of care. Patients can get hospice support wherever they feel most comfortable, including their own homes.
Are home care and hospice time-limited?
It depends. Home care lasts as long as a patient is working toward specific recovery goals, like regaining strength or independence. Services continue as long as they are helping the patient improve or maintain health.
Hospice can continue for as long as the patient meets criteria set by their doctor and care team.
For more information on planning care, visit our Home Care and Hospice pages or call us at 800-964-9300.
