For many of us caring for an elderly parent, there will eventually come a point when it’s no longer about providing care, it’s about providing comfort. In other words, it’s time to choose a hospice provider. After making this difficult decision, it’s vital to remember not all hospice providers are created equal. You need to consider several factors in finding the hospice company that will best provide the comfort and support you want for your parent in the final stage of their life. These are the people tasked with safeguarding your parent’s dignity, managing their pain, and ensuring not only their emotional well-being, but yours and your family’s as well. So you need to choose carefully. Here are several factors to consider:
1. Hospice Quality of Care:
The primary concern when choosing a hospice provider for your parent is, of course, the quality of care they provide. Research the company’s reputation, certifications, and accreditations. Look for providers that are Medicare-certified and accredited by reputable agencies like The Joint Commission or the Community Health Accreditation Partner (CHAP). Read the reviews and testimonials on their websites, remembering that the company controls what gets posted. You may want to check them out on a site like Yelp where they have no control of the reviews.
2. Services Offered by Hospice Provider:
Different hospice providers offer varying services. Ensure that the company you choose provides comprehensive services tailored to your parent’s needs. This may include pain management, symptom control, emotional support, spiritual care, and assistance with activities of daily living. Are services for family members available, such as counseling and bereavement support?
3. Hospice Provider Expertise and Training:
The qualifications and expertise of the hospice staff will have a tremendous effect on the care your parent receives. Ask about the credentials of the medical team, including doctors, nurses, social workers, and counselors. Ideally, the staff should have specialized training in palliative care and end-of-life management. Assess the staff-to-patient ratio to ensure that your parent will receive the attention and support they need.
4. Communication and Support:
Effective communication is essential to ensure your parent’s needs and preferences are understood and respected. Choose a hospice company that values open communication and encourages family involvement in care planning. Is there a 24/7 helpline for emergencies and guidance?
5. Cultural and Religious Sensitivity:
Does your parent (or your family) have cultural or religious beliefs that need to be honored during this period? Make sure any provider you choose respects and accommodates the cultural or spiritual practices that matter to your family. Do they provide access to clergy or spiritual advisors of your faith? Will the staff be respectful of your cultural traditions?
6. Location and Accessibility of the Hospice Facility:
If your parent will receive hospice care in a home, this is obviously not an issue. But if you’re placing them in a facility, you certainly want a location that’s convenient for you and other family members. Is there sufficient parking, or will that be an issue when you visit? Your parent may still be going to doctor appointments; is the hospice location reasonably close to their medical providers?
7. Financial Considerations:
While it seems strange to use the term “good news” when discussing this topic, there is one part of the equation that actually is: Medicare covers hospice care, usually up to 100% of the charges. Care can be in a facility or a home, and it’ll pay for nurses, doctors, other medical professionals, therapy, equipment, medications, supplies, even bereavement support. A doctor needs to certify that your parent is terminally ill with a life expectancy of six months or less. If they live longer, they’ll have to be certified again. If your parent is under 65 or doesn’t have Medicare, their health insurance plan may provide coverage. And many hospice providers have specialists who can help you find available resources or arrange payment options.
Conclusion:
Choosing a hospice provider for your parent is a deeply personal and important decision. By considering factors such as quality of care, services offered, staff expertise, communication, cultural sensitivity, accessibility, and financial considerations, you can make an informed choice that ensures the comfort, dignity, and well-being of your parent during this difficult time. Take the time to research and evaluate different hospice providers to find the best fit for your loved one’s needs and preferences.
