How Hospice Works

Below we summarize several interesting questions posed by people wondering how hospice works. While Life Source hospice strives to maintain the accuracy of this information, always contact us directly for the most up-to-date information about how hospice hospice and New Jersey hospice in general. You may also get information about how hospice works by visiting the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services website.

When is the right time to ask about hospice?

Now is the best time to learn more about hospice and ask questions about what to expect from hospice services.  Although end-of-life care may be difficult to discuss, it is best for family members to share their wishes long before it becomes a concern.  This can greatly reduce stress when the time for hospice is needed.  By having these discussions in advance, patients are not forced into uncomfortable situations.  Instead, patients can make an educated decision that includes the advice and input of family members and loved ones. Life Source hospice’s interdisciplinary team helps the patient and family understand the hospice cycle. Members of that team include a variety of medical professionals, including physician(s), social workers, therapist aides, and volunteers.

How does hospice care begin?
Typically, hospice care starts as soon as a formal request or a ‘referral’ is made by the patient’s doctor.  Often a hospice program representative will make an effort to visit the patient within 48 hours of that referral, providing the visit meets the needs and schedule of the patient and family/primary caregiver.  Usually, hospice care is ready to begin within a day or two of the referral.  However, in urgent situations, hospice services may be expedited. Remember that initiating hospice care requires a certification by the attending medical professional (e.g. a physician) that a patient is terminally ill and has a life expectancy of 6 months or less.

When happens when inpatient care is required?
If hospital inpatient care becomes necessary, Life Source hospice will generally make the arrangement.

How long does hospice care last?
As hospice care is for people with a life expectancy of 6 months or less, if a patient lives more than 6 months, Life Source hospice will need to re-certify that the patient is terminally ill and has a life expectancy of 6 months or less.