Why hospice?

Hospice is something we all should know about. 98% of families who go through the hospice benefit would recommend it. NEJM

Grandpa

But most people who are eligible for the hospice benefit die without it.

Why?

As someone who has worked in the hospice field (formerly, with Heartland Hospice) with families and medical professionals, I feel like there is plenty more to learn, especially locally. That broader knowledge of the greatness of hospice will have a ripple effect of “good”. Meaning more families and patients finding comfort at a time when they need it most. I have extensive experiences talking to families about end of life care. I have taught classes to nurses (Conditions of Participation of the Hospice Medicare Benefit in Skilled Nursing Facilities) and I can say that hospice is absolutely a good thing. It is more care. Focused care. It is also good for the family. Many end of life conversations are difficult, but once you have them, they can really help.

You need to consider hospice and learn about it no matter where you are in the spectrum of life.

There are three Hospices in North Florida:

  • Community Hospice (904) 407-6500
  • Haven Hospice (904) 733-9818
  • Heartland Hospice (904) 737-2553

I suggest talking to each about their approach to the hospice benefit. Philosophy of care is different at each hospice. Knowing as much as possible about hospice directly from the people who take care of patients locally is the most important thing you can do.

I will be updating this site with links and news. Thanks for visiting and best wishes.

AA

Why is it important to spread hospice awareness? I think this from the NHPCO says it best:

“National Hospice Foundation research on end-of-life care found that Americans are more willing to talk about safe sex and drugs with their children than to discuss end-of-life care with their terminally ill parents. Only 24% of Americans put into writing how they want to be cared for at the end-of-life. A substantial proportion, 19%, have not thought about end-of-life care at all, while 16% have thought about it, but not told anyone their wishes.”
Found Here