FAQs
What is hospice care?
Hospice is a special concept of care designed to provide comfort and support to patients and their families. These services are provided when individuals of any age are facing a life threatening illness, or their illness no longer responds to cure-oriented treatments. We embrace each of our patients and their families in their individual circumstances and provide emotional, social and spiritual services unique to their situation.
Who can benefit from hospice care?
The person that benefits from hospice care is an individual of any age that has been diagnosed as being in their last 6 months of life. Often these people are facing a life threatening illness, their illness no longer responds to cure-oriented treatments, or they no longer desire to seek treatment.
What professional services are offered?
Treasure Valley Hospice offers 4 different levels of professional services that are administered to each patient at different stages in their care. These services are provided by skilled professionals such as Nurses, Social Workers and Chaplains. The 4 levels of care are:
- Routine Care; which is care provided routinely to the patient in their home
- Respite Care; which is designed to give family members, or any other regular caregiver, a period of relief
- General Inpatient Care; which is provided in a skilled nursing facility to manage a crisis or to stabilize a patient during a difficult time
- Continuous Care; may be provided only during a period of crisis. Simply stated, when a patient is having symptoms that are out of control. Types of symptoms that may require continuous nursing care at home include: uncontrolled pain, unrelenting nausea and vomiting, agitation or “terminal restlessness”, bleeding and acute respiratory distress.
How often will people visit me at home and how long will they stay?
The number of visits and length of stay of professional Treasure Valley Hospice staff depends on the needs of the individual. We will develop a plan of care together and honor your wishes.
Does my insurance cover hospice care?
Treasure Valley Hospice care is covered by most insurers, including Medicare, Medicaid, VA, Insurance and Medicare Advantage Plans. Most insurance policies cover all costs of hospice care, though some may require a co-pay.
Can hospice care be provided in places other than the patient’s home?
Treasure Valley Hospice care is provided in the patient’s home or place of residence. The place of residence may include an independent and assisted living facility as well as a skilled nursing facility.
What if the patient gets better?
If the patient’s condition improves, he or she can discharge from hospice and seek curative treatment or return to hospice at a later time.
What if my doctor does not mention hospice?
The patient and family should feel free to discuss hospice care at any time with their physician, other health-care professionals, clergy or friends.
Who can refer a patient to a hospice program?
Anyone can refer a patient to a hospice program. Free nursing evaluations are available from Treasure Valley Hospice to help anyone determine hospice eligibility.
