When should a decision about entering a hospice program be made and who should make it?
At any time during a life-limiting illness, it’s appropriate to discuss all of a patient’s care options, including hospice. By law, the decision belongs to the patient. Understandably, most people are uncomfortable with the idea of stopping aggressive efforts to “beat” the disease. Hospice staff members are highly sensitive to these concerns and are always available to discuss them with the patient and family.
Should I wait for our physician to raise the possibility of hospice, or should I raise it first?
The patient and family should feel free to discuss hospice care at any time with their physician, other health care professionals, clergy or friends.
What if our physician doesn’t know about hospice?
Accord staff is available 24/7 for any questions regarding hospice, our services and your concerns - (847) 780 - 4594.
Most physicians know about hospice. If your physician wants more information about hospice, additional information is always available from us and it is also available from the National Council of Hospice Professionals Physician Section, medical societies or state hospice organizations. In addition, physicians and all others can obtain information on hospice from the American Cancer Society, the American Association of Retired Persons, and the Social Security Administration.
What does the hospice admission process involve?
One of the first things Accord will do is contact the patient’s physician to make sure he or she agrees that hospice care is appropriate for this patient at this time. Accord has medical staff available to help patients who have no physician. Accord staff will guide the patient and family through all available services and help complete the required forms as outlined by the Medicare hospice benefit.
The so-called “hospice election form” says that the patient understands that the care is palliative (that is, aimed at pain relief and symptom control) rather than curative. It also outlines the services available. The form Medicare patients sign also tells how electing the Medicare hospice benefit affects other Medicare coverage.
Is caring for the patient at home the only place hospice care can be delivered?
No, hospice patients may receive care wherever they reside, including their personal residence, skilled nursing facility or assisted living residence.
Is Accord affiliated with any religious organization?
No, chaplains are available in a variety of different religions and denominations to serve each patient’s belief system. Regardless of religious beliefs, spiritual and emotional support from our chaplain services are offered and can help restore dignity, hope, purpose and meaning as patients reflect over their life.
Is there any special equipment or changes I have to make in my home before hospice care begins?
Your Accord team will work with you to ready your home and if necessary, will arrange for all necessary equipment to be delivered and installed in your home. Hospice care is billed directly to Medicare, Medicaid, and/or private insurance companies and Accord receives payment directly from them. Medications, supplies, and equipment related to the hospice diagnosis are covered at 100%.
Can a hospice patient who shows signs of recovery be returned to regular medical treatment?
Certainly. If the patient’s condition improves and the disease seems to be in remission, patients can be discharged from hospice and return to aggressive therapy or their daily life. Previously discharged patients can return to hospice care if their condition changes.
How does hospice “manage pain”?
Hospice nurses and doctors are up to date on the latest medications and devices for pain and symptom relief. In addition, we can assist patients to be as mobile and self-sufficient as possible. Finally, various counselors, including clergy, are available to assist family members as well as patients.
Will medications prevent the patient from being able to talk or know what’s happening?
It is the goal of hospice to have the patient as pain free and alert as possible. By constantly consulting with the patient, Accord has been very successful in reaching this goal.
Is hospice care covered by insurance?
Hospice coverage is widely available. It is provided by Medicare nationwide, by Medicaid in 41 states, and by most private insurance providers.
If the patient is eligible for Medicare, will there be any additional expense to be paid?
Medicare covers all services and supplies related to the hospice diagnosis. All approved services by Accord Hospice are offered with absolutely no cost to the family.
Hospice care is paid for in a variety of ways. Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurers cover hospice-related services at 100%, typically without any deductibles or copays.
If a patient comes to Accord Hospice in need of hospice or palliative care but does not have coverage, we will help that patient obtain coverage. The types of insurance plans that cover hospice are listed below.
Medicare
Medicare Part A covers most hospice services for eligible beneficiaries.
Medicaid
In most states, hospice care is covered by Medicaid.
Private Insurance
Most insurance plans issued by employers and the military, as well as many managed care plans, cover hospice. Benefits may vary by plan.
What You Should Know About the Cost of Accord Hospice
It’s not always easy to know if hospice or palliative care is appropriate for your loved one. There are some signs you can be looking for, though. You may want to talk with the doctor if any or all of the following are present:
(847) 780 - 4594
Fax (847) 574-0440
info@accordhospice.com