What to Expect

When you choose Hospicare, you’re not doing this alone. We come to you, listen to what matters most, and build a plan of care around your needs and wishes.

When You Make the First Call

When you contact Hospicare, a member of our staff will respond as soon as possible to:

• Give you information about our services

• Answer your questions

• Schedule an initial visit, if desired

This first conversation is about listening—to your story, your concerns, and what you hope for in the days ahead.

During Your Initial Visit

A member of our team will come to you—wherever you live—to meet with you and your family. During this visit, we will:

• Explain Hospicare’s services and answer your questions

• Talk together about your goals and any current concerns related to your care and illness

• Assess whether you’re eligible for hospice or palliative care

• Provide information about Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care and Advance Care Planning

You do not need to have an advance directive in place to receive care from Hospicare. We’re happy to help you think through these decisions if and when you’re ready.

If you meet eligibility guidelines, you will be admitted as soon as possible after we receive approval from both your primary care physician and our medical director.

As a Patient

Once you are admitted to Hospicare:

• You remain in the care of your primary physician, and

• You receive support from a Hospicare interdisciplinary team

Together, we work with you and your doctor to create a plan of care tailored to your needs, preferences, and values. Your care plan can be adjusted at any time as your wishes or condition change.

Your care team may include:

• Hospice and Palliative Care Physician
  A board-certified physician who consults with your doctor and the rest of your team to ensure optimal pain and symptom management.

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Home Health Aide
  Helps with personal care and everyday activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.

• Social Worker
  Facilitates family meetings to clarify goals of care; offers emotional support and counseling; helps you plan for future needs; and assists with legal, financial, or insurance concerns.

• Spiritual Care Coordinator
  Provides spiritual and emotional support that respects your beliefs and traditions, coordinates with your clergy or faith community if you wish, and walks with you and your family through questions about meaning, hope, and grief.

• Grief Counselors
  Help you and your loved ones cope with anticipatory grief during a serious illness and provide grief support and counseling for up to 13 months after a death.

• Volunteers and Complementary Services
  Trained volunteers can provide companionship, help write letters, read aloud, or run simple errands. Licensed massage therapists may also visit to help reduce stress, ease muscle tension, and promote relaxation.