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What is hospice? Hospice is about letting people know they will not face end-of-life issues alone. It’s about caring individuals giving gentle reinforcement and medical attention to manage pain and suffering. It’s about reaching out to provide needed emotional and spiritual support. And, it’s about dispelling myths and developing a true understanding. When you put your trust in hospice, we promise we'll be there for you ... when you need us ... where you need us ... for as long as you need us.
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Who will benefit from hospice care? Hospice of Charles County can help persons of all ages who have an illness that is progressing, have a life expectancy that is limited, choose comfort care when treatments for cure are no longer effective, and live in Charles County.
Asking for hospice care may feel like a big step. You may not be sure if it is the right time to call. The decision may feel like an overwhelming burden, however, if you are unsure, asking questions can help you make informed decisions in a timely manner. Talk to your doctor or contact the professionals at Hospice of Charles County. Hospice professionals are ready and willing to help you understand the choices available to you and your family. And, as always, there is no obligation and the hospice staff will help you make the right decision and put your mind at ease. It is important to hospice that you are comfortable with your decision.
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Is hospice only for people with cancer? No. Hospice of Charles County serves terminally ill people of all ages who have any illness that is progressing. These include diseases of the heart, lung, kidney and liver along with neurological diseases, AIDS, Alzheimer’s and debility.
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What if the family cannot manage this care? For patients who require around-the-clock care which may be impossible for the family to provide, there are other options you may want to consider. Hospice can help you arrange placement in any one of several fine nursing and assisted care facilities or at the hospital. These temporary arrangements may meet the needs of the family until other arrangements can be made or when continuous care is available at home. Hospice inpatient care is provided through contracts with Civista Medical Center in La Plata and other respected facilities. Usually, the goal of inpatient care is to control symptoms and return home.
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How do I start? If you think Hospice of Charles County can help you or someone you love or care deeply about, ask your doctor if it is time for hospice. Remember, hospice respects the relationship you have with your physician; therefore, we do not take the place of your doctor, but we prefer to work with your doctor. Talk with your family and friends. Ask for their support of this important decision. Contact Hospice of Charles County. A hospice representative can answer your questions and arrange for a visit.
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What can I expect? Expect relief. If you have been coping with fear of pain, apprehension over finances, or worry about family members, Hospice of Charles County can give you the reassurance you need. The hospice nurse leads an experienced team of professionals and volunteers dedicated to preventing pain and distress while providing emotional and spiritual support.
Although a team member is not present every moment, family and friends can confidently handle most situation thanks to Hospice’s training and assistance. The team works closely with each patient, family member and the physician to develop personalized care plans for specific needs.
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What is bereavement care? Hospice of Charles County’s family support continues long after death occurs. Professionals and trained volunteers assist those who grieve, helping them to bridge loneliness and cope with their loss. Free bereavement support groups are scheduled throughout the year for adults and a monthly newsletter is sent to caregivers following the death of their loved one. Free bereavement support is available to hospice families and friends along with the men and women of Charles County who are grieving and need help. Hospice of Charles County also offers drop-in bereavement support every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00am - 12:pm.
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Who pays for hospice care? Hospice of Charles County is a certified program whose services are covered, in part, by Medicare, Medicaid and many other insurance plans. Hospice professionals handle all the paperwork and reimbursement claims, relieving families of co-payment requirements, filing applications, reports and other red tape. A hospice social worker can give you more information about these benefits. Click here for more information about covering the costs of hospice care.
Thanks to the financial support to the financial support hospice receives in Charles County, your financial status or ability to pay is not a consideration in hospice’s decision to accept you as a patient.
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