The importance of accepting your doctor's Hospice Care recommendation
When a physician tells a patient that it is time to consider hospice care, the patient may understandably have reservations. Similarly, the family may find it difficult to accept this recommendation. Both the patient and their family may be reticent to accept the doctor’s medical advice.
If you have a loved one who has been told that they should consider hospice, be prepared to compassionately listen to the concerns and objections they may express. It is important that you not pressure or force them into hospice care. Instead, hear them out, let them know that you support them, and want what is best for them. Oftentimes a person may incorrectly believe that accepting hospice care means that they will die more quickly than they would if they did not accept hospice. In fact, the opposite has been shown to be true. Studies have demonstrated that patients in hospice receive access to care that they would not otherwise have and, on average, live longer than those who do not utilize hospice care.
The key to speaking to a loved one who is not ready to accept hospice care is to let them know that they are loved and supported. Clearly demonstrate to them that you understand their concerns and then gently, without arguing, give them evidence that can help them feel better about the prospect of entering hospice. If they are willing, you can also arrange a meeting between a hospice representative and your family. In that setting, you can all discuss your thoughts, feelings, and fears. Ultimately, you must let your loved one know that the final decision rests with them and that they will not be forced to do anything with which they are uncomfortable.
Likewise, when your loved one has been referred to hospice and you or members of your family are not ready to accept that recommendation, it is essential that you discuss your concerns with the doctor. Let them know why you or your family are not ready to accept their recommendation. If you are concerned that allowing your loved one to enter hospice means that you are giving up hope, the doctor will remind you that everything that can be done has been tried. The purpose of hospice is to fully support your loved one and increase the quality of their remaining days.
If your concern is based on cost, keep in mind that hospice care is completely covered by Medicaid, Medicare, and most insurance companies. Coverage extends to the supplies, medication, and equipment that are used as a part of the care. You need not resist hospice care for your loved one based on a fear of cost.
Hearing that hospice care is the best remaining course of treatment can be difficult. Properly handling and addressing the fears and questions surrounding hospice is important. If you or a loved one need more information about exactly how hospice care works and its benefits, contact Hospice of Chattanooga. The team there will be happy to answer your questions and help you learn more about the next steps following a physician’s recommendation. Please visit https://www.hospiceofchattanooga.org for more information.