While each case is different, the broad benchmarks that determine whether a patient may be admitted to hospice care are:
1. A diagnosis of a life-limiting illness
2. A prognosis of six months or less
3. A choice to no longer pursue curative treatment
A common misconception is that hospice is only for cancer patients. However, the following diagnoses are also commonly admitted for hospice care: Adult Failure to Thrive Syndrome: ALS; Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders; Heart Disease; HIV Disease; Liver Disease; Pulmonary Disease; Renal Disease; and Stroke and/or Coma. Referrals can be made by anyone - a doctor, hospital, clergy, patient, family member or friend. And, while "a prognosis of six months or less" is used, services do not have a specified time limit, but rather continue to be provided based on the patient's condition. In other words, as long as the patient continues to be hospice-appropriate, Hospice of Union County will continue to provide services, regardless of length of life.
Hospice services can be provided in the patient's home, our Hospice Houses, skilled nursing facilities or assisted living facilities.
The admission process includes not only medical information, but also financial and logistical information as well. Our Admissions staff will help to determine what type of equipment the family may need in the home such as shower chairs, hospital beds or wheelchairs. They also formulate and confirm a plan of medical care with your physician, including medication and any other medical treatment needed to help with the comfort and care of the patient. Our social workers help if financial or community support is needed. Planning for volunteer and clergy support is also included in the admission process. If you have any questions regarding the Admissions process, please call us at 704-292-2107 and speak with our Admissions Coordinator.