The hospice environment equips patients and their families with resources to address these and other important issues. Physical pain and symptoms will be managed. Comfort and hope will be possible. And the cost of hospice is covered under Medicare and by most private insurers. Clearly, there is no ''giving up'' in hospice despite this being a common misconception by most of the public.
Hospice care is provided by a team that meets regularly to coordinate services to the dying person.
Nurses focus on helping the person feel as comfortable as possible, such as managing the medications to relieve pain. CNA's will provide baths and personal care which can be a great comfort measure and relief to the caregiver. Social workers will assist as needed with various aspects, such as financial matters and the grief that will be faced by the dying person and the family. Clergy will provide spiritual counseling. Many families have their own priest or clergy person who is already involved with the family.