National Hospice and Palliative Care Month is recognized every November in the U.S., raising awareness about compassionate end-of-life care.
Here are 13 key things to know about this observance:
#1. Purpose of the Month
National Hospice and Palliative Care Month aims to honor and highlight the important work that hospice and palliative care providers do in supporting patients and families during serious illness and end-of-life stages.
#2. What Hospice Care Involves
Hospice care provides comfort-focused care for those nearing the end of life, typically in the last six months. It helps manage pain and symptoms, supports emotional well-being, and often takes place at home or in a hospice facility.
#3. What Palliative Care Involves
Unlike hospice care, palliative care can be provided at any stage of a serious illness, not just at the end of life. It focuses on improving the quality of life, managing symptoms, and supporting patients and families emotionally and spiritually.
#4. How Hospice Care Supports Families
Hospice care provides families with emotional support, counseling, respite care, and bereavement services to help them cope with the emotional aspects of end-of-life care and loss.
#5. Importance of Early Conversations
Early discussions about end-of-life care preferences can help families avoid crisis decisions and ensure that patients receive the care they truly desire.
#6. Impact on Quality of Life
Research has shown that both hospice and palliative care can significantly improve quality of life for patients, helping them manage pain, relieve symptoms, and find comfort and peace.
#7. Education and Outreach
During this month, healthcare providers and organizations hold events, offer resources, and provide information to educate the public about the benefits of hospice and palliative care.
#8. Addressing Misconceptions
National Hospice and Palliative Care Month helps address common myths, such as the belief that hospice is only for the last few days of life or that palliative care is only for cancer patients.
#9. Eligibility and Access to Hospice Care
Hospice is generally available to those with a terminal illness who are expected to live six months or less, with services often covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance.
#10. Interdisciplinary Care Teams
Hospice and palliative care teams often include doctors, nurses, social workers, counselors, chaplains, and volunteers who work together to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their families.
#11. Role of Volunteers
Volunteers play an essential role in hospice care, offering companionship, support, and assistance with tasks to improve patients’ comfort and quality of life.
#12. Focus on Patient-Centered Care
Hospice and palliative care are built around the patient’s wishes, with personalized care plans that align with the patient’s values, goals, and cultural or spiritual needs.
#13. Advocacy and Policy
National Hospice and Palliative Care Month also encourages advocacy for policies that improve access to end-of-life care, promote training for healthcare providers, and ensure adequate funding and resources for hospice and palliative programs.
This month is an opportunity to honor those who provide this compassionate care, support patients and families facing serious illness, and raise awareness about options for dignified, compassionate end-of-life care.
We at Abic Healthcare Services always create awareness during this time. Join us.
We care!