What is Hospice?

COMMON QUESTIONS

• Why choose hospice care?
  The decision to choose hospice care is a very personal one. It involves the patient, family, physician and loved ones who may serve as caregivers. Old Colony Hospice's expertise in pain and symptom management, as well as providing complex medical care, assures that the patient will be kept comfortable. Hospice enables the patient to focus on living their remaining days fully, among family and friends, with utmost regard for quality of life. The emphasis on caring for the family's needs, as well as the patient's needs, makes hospice care unique.
• Can I keep my own physician?
  Yes, your primary care physician will work with the hospice nurse to develop a Plan of Care that best meets your needs and the needs of your caregivers.
• How often will the team visit me?
  The hospice nurse will develop a Plan of Care with you at the time of your admission to the hospice program. This plan will be updated as necessary, but no less frequently than every 15 days. He or she will discuss your needs and help determine a frequency of scheduled visits including nursing, hospice aides, volunteers, etc. You are always encouraged to discuss changes in the schedule with your nurse. In addition, a nurse is available by phone 24-hours per day, 7 days per week to answer questions, give advice, or come make an extra visit if needed.
• What if I have no health insurance?
  Hospice care is provided to any individual who meets the eligibility criteria for admission, regardless of ability to pay. Charitable care is funded through the generosity of grants, gifts from community organizations and local businesses, as well as through memorial donations. If you do not have health insurance, you will be asked to complete a financial assessment, and hospice care will be provided.