Graduating From Hospice
What Does It Mean to Graduate From Hospice?
Graduating from hospice means that a patient who was previously enrolled in hospice care has improved to the extent that they no longer meet the criteria for hospice services. Hospice care is provided to people who are expected to live six months or less because of a terminal illness. Some patients experience improvements or stabilization of their condition, allowing them to “graduate” from hospice. This graduation indicates the patient’s prognosis has changed, and they may live longer than initially anticipated.
Hospice is NOT about giving up
Hospice care is not about giving up. It shifts the focus from curative treatments to comfort and quality of life. Hospice provides support to patients with terminal illnesses, ensuring they can live their remaining days with dignity and comfort. It manages symptoms, offers emotional and spiritual support, and provides care for the patient and their family.
The goal for hospice is quality of life
Hospice improves quality of life during the end-of-life stage, helping patients find peace and comfort rather than pursuing aggressive treatments that aren’t beneficial. This is achieved through symptom management, spiritual support, and assistance for caregivers. By addressing physical discomfort, emotional distress, and emotional needs, hospice ensures patients spend their remaining time surrounded by their loved ones.
What percentage of people graduate from hospice?
The percentage of people who graduate from hospice, meaning they are discharged alive due to significant health improvement, varies but generally falls between 5% and 23%. This figure is influenced by geographic location, local demographics, and the characteristics of different hospice programs. About one in seven hospice patients is discharged alive across multiple locations in the United States.
How does a person “graduate” from hospice?
A person “graduates” from hospice when their health improves and they no longer meet the criteria for hospice care. Hospice care is provided to people who are expected to live six months or less due to a terminal illness. However, some patients experience significant health improvements or stabilization of their condition, allowing them to be discharged from hospice care.
Criteria for Graduating from Hospice:
- Improved Health: The patient’s condition has stabilized or improved, making the initial prognosis of six months or less no longer applicable.
- Assessment by Healthcare Providers: Medical professionals evaluate the patient and determine hospice care is no longer necessary based on their current health status.
- Reevaluation of Prognosis: The patient’s life expectancy is re-evaluated and extended beyond the initial six-month prognosis.
What happens when you are discharged from hospice?
Return to Regular Medical Care
- Primary Care: The patient returns to the care of their primary healthcare provider or specialist for ongoing medical management.
- Treatment Plans: Medical professionals may develop new or adjusted treatment plans to manage the patient’s condition and continue to monitor their health.
Ongoing Support and Resources
- Home Health Care: Some patients may transition to home health care services, which provide medical support, therapy, and assistance with daily activities.
- Community Resources: Patients and families can use community resources like support groups, counseling services, and local health organizations.
Follow-Up and Monitoring
- Regular Check-Ups: Patients will need regular check-ups to monitor their condition and ensure any new or ongoing health issues are managed.
- Symptom Management: Continuous management of symptoms and underlying health conditions will be needed to maintain the patient’s improved health status.
Re-evaluation for Hospice
- Future Eligibility: If the patient’s condition worsens, they may be re-evaluated for hospice care and can re-enroll if they meet the eligibility criteria.
How to find support and needed care after graduating from hospice
After graduating from hospice, finding support and care includes reestablishing care with physicians to create a new treatment plan and regular check-ups. Home health care services offer medical support and assistance with daily activities. Use community resources like support groups, counseling services, and local health organizations for emotional and practical support. Stay connected with social workers who can navigate resources and services. Keep in touch with the hospice team, who can provide guidance and re-evaluate eligibility if the patient’s condition changes.
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