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Understanding Hospice

Hospice care is for anyone with a life-limiting illness and whose life expectancy is determined to be six months or less if the disease runs its natural course.

Hospice care allows a natural death. It neither hastens death or prolongs life, but focuses upon providing comfort for those nearing the end of life. The hospice team works with the patient and family and determines a plan of care based on the patient's goals and priorities. For comfort and symptom relief hospice covers medications, medical equipment and supplies related to the hospice diagnosis.

If a patient needs care beyond what can be provided at home, Allina Home & Community Services makes arrangements with local contracted hospitals and other facilities where patients may receive necessary and appropriate care.

Special concern and interpretive services are available for non-English speaking persons.
Here are some questions to ask yourself, your family and your doctor if you have a life-threatening illness. 

  • Do you understand what the doctor has told you about your treatment options and prognosis? 
  • What would help you slow down your worry and take control of the situation? 
  • What practical problems is your illness causing you and your family?
  • Where would you like to be when you really slow down? 
  • How is your pain level on a scale of 0 to 10? 
  • Is there anything weighing on your mind? 

For more information please call the Allina Care Navigation Help Desk at 651-635-9173.



How hospice care works
 

 

Allina Home & Community Services
1055 Westgate Drive, Suite 100
St. Paul, MN 55114
651-635-9173
E-mail us

 

Source: Medicare Hospice Benefits, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

First published: 08/11/2006
Last updated: 05/01/2009

Reviewed by: Gloria Cade, RN BSN CHPCA, hospice director

 

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