Dr. Kim Ann Dang
As a doctor specializing in the care of older adults, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that timely, compassionate hospice care can have on patients and their families. Hospice isn’t just a service, but a philosophy of care that focuses on enhancing the quality of life for those facing end-stage diseases. It supports people in their final months and weeks, ensuring comfort, dignity, and respect.
I like to say that hospice is often a service that people are seeking out, but may not realize. That’s because many people associate hospice care with giving up or as a last resort after treatments have failed. But in reality, this perspective overlooks the holistic benefits that hospice provides.
Hospice treats people, not diseases
By integrating physical, emotional, and spiritual support, hospice care can significantly improve the quality of life, even in its final stages. Hospice treats people, not diseases. That means offering specialized services and support to care for people in the final phase of a terminal illness by focusing on relief measures rather than curative treatment.
While patients can receive care in a skilled nursing facility or a hospice facility, they most often choose to stay in the comfort of their own homes. This allows them to continue living as fully as possible, surrounded by loved ones in a familiar, stress-free environment.
Patients are eligible for hospice when it’s expected they have six months or less to live, yet many only enroll in their final days or weeks. I advocate for my patients and their families to consider hospice care much earlier, which allows for more time to establish a comprehensive care plan tailored to each individual’s needs and wishes.
“I urge healthcare providers, patients, and families to consider hospice care not as a last resort but as an integral part of compassionate, dignified end-of-life care.”
Start hospice earlier than later
Early referrals can prevent unnecessary hospitalizations and reduce physical discomfort and emotional distress for the patient and their family. It also provides families with support and guidance, helping them navigate through what is often one of the most challenging and emotional journeys in their lives.
I’ve experienced the difference that early hospice intervention can make. Patients are more relaxed, families are better prepared and the overall experience is better aligned with the patient’s values. I want more people to understand and embrace hospice care, and to start talking about end-of-life plans sooner, especially when facing a serious illness.
Preserving dignity, providing love and comfort
Equally important, the support provided by hospice ensures that no one has to grieve alone. Bereavement services and grief counselors are there for families during their loved one’s time in hospice and once they have passed.
By emphasizing the value of each moment, hospice helps families create meaningful memories and say goodbye in a way that honors the life of their loved one. It’s about preserving dignity and providing love and comfort, not just in the patient’s final days, but throughout the end-of-life journey.
Accessing hospice care
Patients can access hospice care through various channels, ensuring that the transition is as smooth as possible. If your loved one is hospitalized, case managers can play a crucial role in connecting them to hospice services. They can also facilitate discussions, answer questions, and help initiate the referral process to a hospice program.
Alternatively, a patient’s primary care physician can refer them to hospice care. For those who are uncertain about transitioning to hospice, information sessions are available to provide detailed insights into what hospice care involves and how it can be tailored to meet their specific needs.
“Patients and their families need to know that reaching out to hospice is not a commitment but an opportunity to learn more about the compassionate care options available.”
Hospice teams are dedicated to providing clear, comprehensive information to help individuals make the best decisions for their circumstances.
Hospice is not about hastening death; it’s about enriching the quality of the time that remains. I urge healthcare providers, patients, and families to consider hospice care not as a last resort but as an integral part of compassionate, dignified end-of-life care.
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Kim Ann Dang, M.D., is a physician specializing in hospice and palliative medicine, and family medicine.