Who Is Eligible For Hospice Care?

A hospice is a healthcare establishment for people with life-limiting illnesses or disabilities. This institution provides continuous care and companionship to people at the last stages of their life. A staff of dedicated professionals makes sure residents are comfortable and as happy as they can be. Not all patients are eligible for hospice care and here are some tips to identify who can be:

1. Low Life Expectancy

People with a life expectancy of fewer than six months can be admitted to a hospice. This requires a certificate from their physician or similar medical authority as most institutions will not accept patients without proof. Many hospices will require two certifications, one from the primary physical and another from the doctor responsible for treating a specific illness. When they attest the condition is terminal, the hospice will accept the patent under their care.

2. Diagnoses That Qualify

When a person’s health starts to decline considerably, they need more care and attention. These individuals experience diminished capacity, lack of mobility, extreme fatigue, progressive weight loss, and similar problems associated with health concerns. Terminal illnesses that can lead to hospice care include:

• Different types of cancer
• Cardiac disease (end of life)
• Last state acute or chronic renal failure
• ALS
• CVA
• Aids (end stage)
• Liver disease (end stage)
• Dementia with A FAST score of 7A
• Last stage Parkinson’s
• Last state multiple sclerosis
• End stage pulmonary disease

Doctors will recommend hospice when the patient has to undergo too many hospitals or ER visits as this option is easier for them. The establishment provides day and night care that most loved ones can’t.

Contact us at Tindall Funeral Home through our online form or call (315) 468-5521 if you want to know about our funeral services and need advice on different options.