FAQs

Who pays for Hospice?

Hospice services are widely available and covered by Medicare Part A. They are also covered by Medicaid, as well as private or managed care insurances. Most insurances cover the following:

• Medications for symptom management and pain relief
• Medical equipment and supplies
• Physician services
• Nursing care
• Home health aide and homemaker services
• Social worker services
• Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
• Spiritual and grief counseling
• Short-term general inpatient care and respite care

Are there any changes I have to make to my home or special equipment to buy before Hospice care begins?

No. Caring Hands Hospice will help you determine what you need and then assist you in obtaining any special equipment or making any changes in your home.

Can I be cared for by Hospice if I reside in a nursing home or other type of long-term care facility?

Yes, All Hospice services can be provided in a nursing home if the facility has a written agreement to provide these services to their residents. In addition to the standard services provided by the nursing home or alternate care facility, residents will receive specialized visits from Hospice nurses, home health aides, chaplains, social workers, and volunteers.

How does hospice "manage pain"?

Hospice believes that emotional and spiritual pain are just as real as physical pain. Hospice nurses and doctors use the latest and most effective medications and devices to treat all forms of pain and relieve symptoms. Social workers, counselors, and chaplains are available to assist family members and patients in dealing with their illness. Hospice success rate in managing pain is very high. Hospice uses a combination of medications, counseling, and therapies, most people can attain a level of comfort that is acceptable to them.

Will medications prevent me or my loved one from being able to talk or know what's happening?

Not in most cases. The goal of Hospice it to help individuals live as actively as possible, free of pain or discomfort.

Can I refer myself to Hospice?

Anyone can make a referral for Hospice…yourself, a family member, a friend. You should feel free to speak with your doctor, your minister, or a trusted friend when making this decision. You may also choose to contact us to learn more about our services and arrange a meeting in your home to discuss the program. We are also available to meet with you to discuss Hospice in the hospital or extended stay facilities such as nursing homes.

What if my physician does not know about Hospice?

Most physicians are aware of the benefits of Hospice. However, if your physician is not aware of the benefits of Hospice or would like more information about Hospice, Caring Hands Hospice is always available to provide information. Please call Caring Hands Hospice at (870) 698-0505 or (870) 257-3006. Can I keep my personal physician if I should choose Hospice?

Of course, you may keep your personal physician while under the care of Hospice. Hospice reinforces your family physician/patient relationship and considers this bond to be a high priority.

How am I admitted to Hospice?

Once you have made a decision to select Hospice, a representative will contact you to discuss the program to help determine your eligibility. Your family physician will then be contacted to discuss your decision and receive authorization to begin providing the services that you have chosen. Finally, you will be asked to sign certain forms that are similar to the ones that you would sign before receiving any other special medical treatments or services.

Can a Hospice patient who shows signs of recovery be returned to regular medical treatment? Yes. If a patient’s condition improves and the disease goes into remission, the patient can be discharged from Hospice and returned to regular medical treatment. Likewise, should the patient ever need to return to Hospice in the future, these services could be resumed at the patient and physician’s request.

What do Hospice volunteers do?

Hospice volunteers are a special group of people that give of their time and talents to assist patients and their families. They are available to visit with you or help you run errands. They can also assist with daily activities and may perhaps read, sing, write letters, put together scrap books, bring meals, or just reminisce with you and your loved ones about life’s many experiences. Their support both enhances the quality of life for patients and helps relieve some of the demands that are often placed on caregivers.