Those exploring care options for a life-limiting illness might not know how hospice works or understand its many benefits to the patient and surrounding loved ones. Hospice is a unique type of care for patient families living with a terminal diagnosis that provides symptom management and improved quality of life physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Here’s how it works:
1. Patient Referral
A patient may be referred to hospice when curative treatment is no longer working, the patient wishes to stop curative treatment, or pain and/or other disease indicators trigger an evaluation. Hospice referrals can be made by the patient, a physician, or a loved one.
2. Hospice Evaluation
Our knowledgable team will evaluate the patient to determine if he or she meets the criteria for hospice admission. Patients are typically qualified for admission to hospice only when they have a terminal diagnosis of 6 months or less with natural disease progression and will not pursue curative treatment for the diagnosis.
3. Personalized Care Plan
If admitted, the patient's Magnolia Care Team - including a doctor, nurse(s), social worker, and chaplain - will work with the patient and loved ones to create a custom care plan to maximize quality of life, focused on physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Their goal is to provide comfort and peace at each step of your journey. We can provide care in most places a patient calls home, such as a private residence, residential home, or skilled nursing facility.
4. Ongoing Care with 24/7 Access
We offer compassionate, expert care in the patient's residence for as long as he or she remains eligible. Families have regular visits from care team members and access to supplies or medication based on the patient's needs, as well as 24/7 resources for any urgent matters, day or night. Our top priority is the safety and well-being of patients and their loved ones. We can also provide insight on financial considerations through Medicare coverage or other payment options.
5. Grief & Bereavement Support
Part of the unique care Magnolia Hospice provides is designed to help patients and families through the end-of-life grief process with respect and dignity. Our chaplain and entire care team are available to listen and provide counsel however each individual needs, and we offer bereavement support for loved ones for up to 13 months after the patient's passing.
