What is Hospice
Hospice is About Living
Frequently Asked Questions
Types of Care
Focus is different
The goal of treatment for patients facing a life limiting
illness is comfort rather than cure. Pain control is a priority. Medications are
used, but other treatments such as visualizations, music, heat, activities, and
visitors are used as well. All symptoms are treated to enhance the patient's
comfort. Attention is paid to diet, skin care, bowel and bladder function,
nausea, and edema.
Care encompasses the physical, the emotional, the mental and the spiritual.
Levels of Care
AMC Hospice provides four levels of care, as defined by
Medicare, depending on the level of intensity of care and the patient/family
needs.
- Routine care is provided in the patient's home. Home is defined as wherever the patient is living. It could be a residential home, an adult home, living with a relative or friend, an assisted living facility or a nursing home.
- Continuous care is provided in the home in the event that there is a medical or psychosocial crisis. The crisis would require the skills of a registered nurse to monitor new or changed medications or to monitor patient changes. The nurse or the aide may provide this care for periods of time exceeding 8 hours/day.
- Respite care is provided when the family or caregiver needs a rest. This care is provided in the Augusta Medical Center for up to 5 days.
- Acute care: When symptoms can't be controlled in a home setting, the patient can be moved to Augusta Medical Center for a short-term stay until the patient's pain and symptoms are under control. Some patients who receive their primary care at the University of Virginia may be admitted to the University of Virginia Hospital.
AMC encourages family and friends to be with the Hospice patient at any time during the hospital stay. Special arrangements can be made for visitation by pets as well, when patients are in a private room.
How is care paid for?
Medicare covers Hospice care. The Medicare Hospice benefit covers the cost of
professional services, medications related to the terminal illness and medical
equipment needed to keep the patient more independent or comfortable. There is
no co-pay and there is no deductible.
Most other insurances have a hospice benefit. These benefits are confirmed on an individual basis. The patient and family will know of the coverage prior to care.
Patients who are referred to AMC Hospice and meet the admission criteria will receive services whether or not they have the ability to pay.