Coping with a terminal illness can be a daunting experience - not only for the dying patient, but also for his or her loved ones. This situation will only intensify as Baby Boomers become Senior Boomers. Surprisingly, many people do not realize that there is an all-inclusive hospice care benefit available to Americans through the Medicare program. This brochure helps patients and loved ones understand more about hospice care, as well as learn about the eligibility requirements and services covered under the Medicare Hospice Benefit.
Support is extended to the patient's loved ones, as well.
At the center of hospice is the belief that each of us has the right to die pain-free and with dignity, and that our loved ones will receive the necessary support to allow us to do so. The focus is on caring, not curing and, in most cases, care is provided in the patient's home. Hospice care is also provided in freestanding hospice facilities, hospitals, and nursing homes and other long- term care facilities. Hospice services are available to patients of any age, religion, race, or illness. Typically, a loved one serves as the primary caregiver and, when appropriate, helps make decisions for the terminally ill individual.