Choosing a hospice provider that meets the medical, spiritual and emotional needs of your loved one and family is an extremely important decision as hospice becomes an integral part of your loved one’s journey. Hospice care goes beyond the medical needs of the patient – it’s truly a support system for the entire family that remains present even after a loved one passes. 

What is Hospice Care?

Hospice care focuses on quality of life when a cure is no longer possible or the burdens of treatment outweigh the benefits. Hospice provides an interdisciplinary care team that is person and family-centered that offers medical care, pain management and emotional and spiritual support.

Hospice is not a place but a compassionate kind of care that provides dignity and respect based on the wishes of the patient and their family. Most hospice care is provided in the home, where patients feel most comfortable. However, hospice is also offered at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities or in a hospital if needed. Family caregivers play a crucial role and hospice makes sure they are educated and supported while caring for their loved one during this stage of life. 

Questions to Ask Hospice Providers

When considering different providers, the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization recommends asking a few key questions.

1. Is the hospice Medicare certified?
2. When was the last state or federal survey of the program?
3. Is the hospice accredited by a national organization?
4. What services should I expect from the hospice?
5. How and where does the hospice provide short-term inpatient care?
6. How long does it typically take the hospice to enroll someone once the request for services is made?
7. Is the hospice a member of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization?

The NHPCO also created a downloadable checklist that further expands on the questions that could help you decide which hospice provider is the perfect fit for your family. 

While there are many hospice providers to choose from, Liberty HomeCare and Hospice is backed by a more than 145-year history of caring for seniors in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Our vast service area makes it easy and convenient to find quality care close to your loved one and our compassionate care team is eager to help your family through this special and important time. We will gladly meet with you and answer all your questions so you feel confident when deciding what hospice care provider to choose. To learn more about our hospice care services, call 800-999-9883 or request a free consultation online.