Hospice

Hospice is a philosophy of care focusing on comfort, not cure. Hospice neither prolongs life, nor hastens death. Hospice philosophy encourages patients and their families to be actively involved in their care. Our Hospice staff and volunteers offer specialized knowledge of medical care, pain management, emotional and spiritual support. Our goal is to improve the quality of our patients' lives and offer comfort and dignity.

Hospice originated in Medieval Europe. It meant a place where travelers, weary from journeys, could seek shelter, nourishment and rest. Today, Hospice is not a place but a special kind of care that focuses on meeting the physical, emotional, spiritual and social needs of individuals during their last phase of life. Hospice is a medically directed, interdisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, certified nurse assistants, volunteers, chaplains, and social workers.

According to national statistics, most patients admitted to hospice programs have an illness related to cancer. However, over 40% of patients are admitted to hospice with non-cancer diagnoses such as end-stage heart disease, end-stage lung disease, ALS, AIDS and neurologic disorders.

St. Anthony's Hospice professionals with expertise in pain management, symptom control and grief support, work together as a team to provide services to both the patient and their family.

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Admission criteria for patients:

Hospice is available to all terminally ill individuals and their families regardless of their age, gender, race, nationality, creed, sexual orientation, physical condition, availability of primary caregiver, or ability to pay. Anyone can refer a patient to St. Anthony's Hospice. To be admitted, a patient must:

• Agree to treatment aimed at comfort rather than cure
• Have an incurable disease with a life expectancy of six months or less, as certified by a physician.

Patients being admitted to St. Anthony's Hospice program must referred to the program by a physician, family member, friend or the patient.

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Reimbursement & Insurance

• Medicare and Medicaid Click here to view "Medicare Hospice Benefits" booklet on-line. The link will open on top of this page. Close the window to return to this page.
• Most private insurance companies now offer benefits.
• Funds are available to help patients who are uninsured or underinsured. Hospice care is available to all individuals living with a terminal illness, regardless of their ability to pay.

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