When Is It Time For Hospice Care?
If a person you know or a loved one is experiencing evident health deterioration or persistent pain with no curative treatment available, it may be time to talk about Hospice. Early initiation of hospice care often results in a higher quality of life, reduced hospitalizations, and lower medical costs. The expenses for hospice care are typically covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and the majority of private insurance plans.
We’re By Your Side, to answer your questions.
Signs That It Might Be Time for Hospice
Consider these common signs:
Increased hospitalizations & ER visits
Sudden or progressive weight loss
Change in comprehension (confusion, disorientation)
More assistance needed with activities of daily living, like personal care
Increased incontinence, edema (swelling), weakness &/or shortness of breath
Falls resulting in injury
Personality Changes & withdrawal from family and friends
Decrease in appetite
Taking nine+ daily medications
Increased in number or severity of infections or wounds
If you have noticed one or more of the above signs within the last year, it may be time for hospice. Make a referral for a complimentary hospice consultation or consider talking to your doctor about hospice care. Anyone can make a referral, including providers, patients, or their loved ones.
How To Start Hospice Care
1 - Referral
You can request a hospice referral from your loved one’s Primary Care Doctor, but a doctor’s referral is not a requirement. Anyone, including a family member, may make a hospice care referral by calling By Your Side Hospice Care at (414) 662-7701.
2 - Complimentary Consultation
We will meet with you in person or by phone to help you determine if it’s time for a hospice assessment.
3 - Hospice Assessment
Our RN Case Manager will meet with you and your loved one for a virtual or in-person assessment to determine hospice eligibility. During their visit they’ll share with you the benefits of hospice care, gather information such as recent health declines and concerning symptoms, and learn whether at-home hospice care is being considered.
4 - Hospice Admission
A By Your Side Hospice physician will review the assessment for a formal admission as a By Your Side Hospice Care patient.
Get in Touch
Let us know how we can assist you. Rest assured, our compassionate teams will stand By Your Side during your loved one's transition. We are proud to serve South-Eastern Wisconsin with dedication and care.
We are here to answer any and all questions you may have.