Every year, around 1.8 million patients in the United States utilize hospice care. This usage has continued to increase in the last 10 years, due to the access patients have for this type of care. On the other hand, palliative care offers a unique opportunity for patients diagnosed with a life-limiting illness to begin treatment earlier than a hospice patient. Knowing the difference between the two can give you or your loved ones the option to choose which care model works the best for their needs.
Hospice care focuses on end-of-life care due to a life limiting diagnosis; typically toward the last few months of expected life after treatment options have been exhausted. Hospice patients must have a prognosis of 6 months or less if the illness follows its usual course. However, palliative care can begin at diagnosis, while being treated for a life limiting diagnosis.
Both models focus on a team approach to care with an emphasis on comfort or improving quality of life for the patient. Both palliative care and hospice care provide comfort. However, palliative care can begin at diagnosis, and at the same time as treatment. Hospice care begins after treatment of the disease is stopped and when it is clear that the person is not going to survive the illness.
In Muncie, palliative care is provided during hospitalization, while hospice can be provided in the hospital and in all home settings.
Absolutely not. In fact, palliative care is often used along with curative treatment. Palliative care can transition into hospice care if certain conditions are met throughout the treatment journey, but do not necessarily mean hospice care is imminent.
Hospice care does not mean that at all. Treatment of a life-limiting illness is a unique journey for all. Comfort and quality of life are key aspects of hospice treatment. There is still a stigma attached to hospice care that needs some adjustments. Hospice care does not mean that you’re giving up hope; it means you’re redefining your care and creating a flexible approach to improving your quality of life.
If you or your loved one is diagnosed or currently suffering from a life-limiting illness, the first step in determining care options is to talk to your current provider about what is available to you. Based on your illness and current care plan, palliative care or hospice care may address your quality of life concerns. Opening up the discussion with your provider is the most important step in deciding on which care model fits you or your loved one’s needs during their journey.
The holiday season is a time for reflecting on memories with families and friends. With this in mind, members of the hospice and palliative care teams are eagerly anticipating the 2018 Glowing Memories reception (formerly known as Season of Hope) in the IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital South Tower Atrium on Nov. 25 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Please join us in celebrating! Call 765-747-3420 for more information.
Karen Wells, RN, is the East Central Region director for Hospice and Home Care at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital. She has been with the organization for two years, along with 20 years of home health and hospice experience.