Families making decisions about hospice care may feel rushed or ill-informed about their options. Finding the right agency for end-of-life care requires clear conversations among family members and with medical professionals. It might also include doing some research.
Once families have identified and accepted the need for hospice care, they should consider several factors when choosing a provider. They might start by asking their healthcare providers for recommendations or searching online resources. It is crucial to research any hospice care facility before committing. Compassus, for example, makes information about its services readily available to potential patients.
We are a full-service hospice care provider with locations nationwide. To learn about Compassus and our services, families can contact us at 833.380.9583 or visit our website for more information.
How to Choose a Hospice Care Provider
Learn About the Provider
Speak to Staff and Patients
Know Your Insurance Coverage
Ask About Services and Care
Review Hospice Policies and Procedures
Be Bold and Ask Questions
Conversations with doctors and hospice providers are more productive when you understand your goals and priorities. Some patients value awareness more than eliminating all their pain. Patients may want to realize a dream trip, while others cherish family time in the comforts of home. Some potential questions to ask include the following:
- What home medical equipment and personal supplies are provided?
- How will you manage pain and other symptoms?
- Will Medicare cover hospice services or medications we need?
- What staff will visit and how often?
- What if we need emergency care?
- What family support services are offered?
- Is the staff experienced with specific illnesses?
- Are there support services for veterans
- What staff qualifications or training do you require? RNs? Aides? Volunteers?
- Is care available after business hours and on weekends?
- What if we’re not happy with nurses or other staff?
- If we need inpatient care or respite care, what are our options?
Let Your Voice Be Heard
Find a Good Fit for Your Family
Does Accreditation Matter?
Hospice agencies may open their programs to independent accrediting organizations. These organizations measure a provider’s care and business practices against industry and Medicare standards. Hospice providers are not required to be accredited, but accreditation does offer an un-biases assessment of quality.
The three major accrediting agencies for hospice and palliative care programs are:
- Community Health Accreditation Program
- The Joint Commission
- Accreditation Commission for Health Care
All Compassus hospice locations have earned Community Health Accreditation Program (CHAP) accreditation.
How to Choose a Hospice Care Facility
When selecting a hospice care facility for yourself or a loved one, the decision can be an overwhelming and emotional experience. It is crucial to collect as much information as possible and take the time to explore the many factors involved in choosing a hospice facility. These include levels of comfort and care, availability of resources, quality of amenities, comprehensive services offered, cost, proximity to family and friends, and staff credentials.
In addition to researching online and talking with family members or friends who have had personal experiences, try consulting third-party sources such as online directories, professional organizations, and consumer review sites. Take responsibility for your research to make an informed decision that is right for you or your loved one—ultimately ensuring high-quality service in their final days.
Learn More About Choosing Hospice Care at Compassus
Compassus is committed to helping you and your family make the best care decision for end-of-life care. If you’re unsatisfied with your current hospice care, Medicare and insurance providers enable you to transfer to a new hospice. You can also decide to end comfort care anytime and return to medical treatments for an illness. Compassus also provides support services and resources to help guide you through choosing hospice care. Contact us today at 833.380.9583 with any questions or learn more about how Compassus can help.