Transition to hospice

Advocate Health at Home’s home health services are designed to help patients recover from an illness or injury and improve independence and function. But sometimes patients need more help. For example, those who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness or require end-of-life care have different, yet very important home health needs. Our hospice care provides professional, compassionate services to help patients and their families manage symptoms, find comfort, and make every day count.

Comparing hospice & home health services

Hospice care differs from home health services in two distinct ways:

• Focus: Home health services are designed to help you recover from illness or injury, with emphasis on maximizing function and independence. Hospice is focused on managing symptoms and making you comfortable. Hospice is designed for those who seek comfort, but no longer a cure.
• Length of stay: Home health services are designed to provide assistance in the short term, with an average length of service of 30 to 45 days. Hospice typically lasts a minimum of six months and can continue for years if hospice criteria are met. It is focused on improving the quality of each day – whether that is counted in weeks, months, or years.

Making the transition

Many patients receiving home health services have a chronic illness. When do you know if it’s time to transition from traditional home health services to hospice care?

It’s important to discuss a possible transition to hospice care with your physician. He or she can help you decide if hospice better fits your needs. In addition, you or your loved one will need a physician’s referral for hospice care to ensure services are covered by Medicare or private insurance.

What is transitioning?

In hospice care, the term transitioning is often used to refer to the stage when a person is nearing the end of their life. Making the transition from home health services to hospice care may happen well before transitioning occurs.

Understanding the goal of hospice

Keep in mind, hospice care does not mean you or your loved one is giving up on life. At all times, you are in control of your care. Hospice is designed to help meet your unique needs and take active steps to make every day count.

Learn more about the role of hospice care from Advocate Health at Home.

View this chart to better understand the differences between hospice and home health services.