|
|
|
What is Hospice care?Early hospices were facilities that housed patients, so it's only natural that some people still think of hospice as a place. That's a misconception - albeit a very common one. Today, hospice care is usually provided at home. In fact, one of the primary goals of Samaritan is to make it possible for people to remain in the comfort of security of familiar surroundings. Another key difference between hospice and institutional care is the control that patients and their families maintain over the course of care. Working with Samaritan's interdisciplinary team of healthcare specialists, patients and families play a vital role in shaping the plan of care and deciding how and when it will be provided.
When should people
consider Samaritan Hospice care?Over the years, we have found that the sooner hospice care is begun, the greater its benefits. Many patients and families find it helpful to begin thinking about hospice care well in advance of their need for it. (For example, when they are told by their physician that a disease may limit life expectancy.) By looking into hospice care at this point, patients and families can gain a better understanding of its role and the many different ways it can be of help when the time comes. Most people feel more comfortable making decisions when they understand all the options available to them. Samaritan counselors are sensitive to these concerns and are always available to discuss options with patients, families and physicians. People who have questions are encouraged to call at any point during the illness.
|
 |
|
