Hospice is a specialized healthcare program that emphasizes the management of symptoms and pain associated with terminal illness. Hospice clients can receive services in the home, in the nursing home, in a hospital, or in a hospice facility.
Hospice care teams can include a medical director, nurses, therapists (physical, occupational and speech), social worker, dietician, chaplain and volunteers. The Hospice team works closely with the patient’s primary care physician to provide symptom and pain management as well as psychological, social and spiritual support for the client and family.
Hospice services may include :
- Physician Services
- Nursing Services
- Physical, occupational and speech therapy
- Social services
- Counseling, spiritual support and bereavement
- Drugs necessary for pain relief and symptom management
- Medical supplies and appliances
- Short term inpatient care
- Respite care
Hospice care is available when the patient desires the service, the physician approves it, the patient has only months to live, the family is aware of the prognosis, and the patient is not seeking curative treatment.
It is suggested that you discuss the option of Hospice care with your personal physician who can provide a list of certified Hospice care providers in the area.
Click HERE to view a list of providers in the area.
Information taken from the Geauga County Department on Aging website