Important Hospice Facts for Families

During hospice, patients can still see their regular doctor. A basic hospice team includes a hospice nurse, a physician, a social worker, counselor, or chaplain, as well as a volunteer. Depending on the individual needs of the patient, other services may be provided as well. This could include a nutritionist, psychologist, psychiatrist, art therapist, home health aide, speech therapist, massage therapist, or even a physical therapist. Patients may also choose to see their regular doctor during hospice care. Hospice is focused on the needs of the patient, which is why it is important to let patients make their own decisions when it comes to care options.

Hospice is inclusive and is here to meet the needs of an entire family. Sometimes hospice can come with struggles and we recognize how difficult it can be to witness the health decline in the ones we love. Our hospice nurses are experienced and are here to make the hospice journey more comfortable for both the patient and their family. Hospice nurses can help explain what is going on and give families a break.

Hospice often continues after death. Most people do not realize that optional follow up grief support is available for twelve months after the death of a loved one. A hospice support team is available to support families of patients and help them find guidance and closure even after the death of their loved one.