Questions & Answers

Learn More about End of Life Care

We fear dying and end of life often because of the unknown. Learning more about your resources will help bring some comfort and answer questions so when these services are needed, you know where to turn.

Having the support of the Hospice Team will bring Quality and Comfort not only to the patient, but the family and caregivers also.

• What is Palliative Care?
  Palliative Care means Comfort Care. The goal is to provide comfort by helping manage pain and symptoms. It is not to seek a cure.

• What is Hospice Care?
  Hospice provides comfort care when we have a limited life expectancy. The focus is on the patient and their wishes for quality of life. We never lose hope and choosing Hospice doesn’t mean giving up. It means that we all agree that our needs our different and changing frequently, and this requires a team of professionals that understand what we are going through. The team is there to act promptly in meeting your needs. You can always choose to stop Hospice if you feel it is no longer right for you. Hospice is focused on the needs of not just the patient, but the family, caregivers, and loved ones also.

• Do I keep my doctor?
  Yes, you can keep your Primary Doctor. The hospice doctor will participate in your care also.  You choose which doctor you would like to be involved. Hospice of the Pines will keep your doctor informed of your medical condition if you would like us to.

• Is Hospice a place?
  No, hospice is not a place but a type of care that is provided in your home. Your home can be in an assisted living center, a skilled nursing center, or a care home also. The hospice team goes to your home. Most people want to be in their home when they are ill. Over the years, Medicare has supported the philosophy of Home Hospice Care. There are hospice houses, units, or skilled nursing centers that are available for short periods during a time of crisis. Hospice also pays for short term respite care that provides your caregiver with a break from caregiving.

• How much does Hospice Care cost?
  Your insurance covers the cost of Hospice Care, including Medicare, private insurance, and Medicaid. You still have to pay your deductible if you have private insurance.  Since Hospice covers the medical care related to your terminal illness, it is usually a big savings for the family. Medicines, equipment, and other services are delivered to your home.

• How can I learn more about Hospice Care?
  A hospice team member can come to your home at any time, mail your information, or stop by the Hospice of the Pines Administrative Offices to learn more. If Hospice is appropriate we will contact your doctor.

• Do I lose my Medicare if I choose Hospice?
  No, you still keep your Medicare for medical care you need that is not related to Hospice Services.

• When can I call Hospice of the Pines?
  We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. When the office is closed, the answering service will have a nurse call you back.

• Is all Hospice Care the same?
  No, hospice care is not the same. You have a choice in what Hospice you choose. We have many hospices in Yavapai County. You can choose the one that you feel comfortable with. Hospice of the Pines has had family surveys in the excellent category since it opened for business in 2005.

Interview several hospices to find the one that meets your families needs. You also have the right to change hospices once in a benefit period if you are not happy with your current hospice.

Choose the Hospice that continues to pursue Excellence in End of Life Care, Hospice of the Pines.