OLIVIA ROGERS Olivia is a leading voice in health care and senior services and the Chief Nursing Officer of VNA Texas .
Dear Olivia , My grandmother has been referred to hospice , but she does not seem to be in the dying process . She has long-standing health issues that have gotten worse over time , and she needs help with most activities such as dressing , bathing and meals , but we feel that everyone is giving up on her . How does the doctor know when someone is “ ready ” for hospice ? We know she is getting older , but we don ’ t want to rush into a decision like this .
~ Not Ready to Give Up
Dear Not Ready to Give Up , We at VNA get this question quite a bit because the doctor ’ s decision to make a referral to hospice is not always a clear one , and often times may be confusing for the family . What Medicare ( who launched the hospice benefit in the United States ) says qualifies a patient for hospice is a prognosis of six months or less . There are many diagnoses that may qualify a patient for hospice , but the six-month prognosis must also be present . Based on the patient ’ s history , diagnosis , contributing health problems , recent hospitalizations , recent changes in level of assistance needed and various other factors , the physician will determine if a patient could benefit from hospice support . Surprisingly , hospice is best when started before a patient is transitioning or actively dying . This is because hospice is made up of a team of providers including the hospice doctor , RN case manager , social worker , chaplain , home health aide and therapy providers . If there is adequate time ( perhaps months rather than days ), the best plan of care can be established and comprehensive care delivered . Hospice is not intended to manage crises only , but also to help manage all of the complex decisions and stressors that accompany a loved one ’ s illness . Once the doctor determines the patient ’ s overall condition is appropriate for a hospice referral , then the family will be presented with this option and would choose a hospice provider . VNA has been delivering hospice care since the program started , and we can help answer any other questions you may have .
~ Olivia
VNA Hospice Care
Hospice & Palliative Care
Ann ’ s Haven
VNA Hospice Care focuses on living life to its fullest and treating you with the dignity and respect you deserve . As a nonprofit , our bottom line is patient support and care provided by our highly qualified staff .
VNA Care Choices
Following the diagnosis of a life-limiting illness , patients and their loved ones have many questions about the best course of action . VNA Care Choices provides supportive care services in the home while continuing treatment with your current physician .
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OTHER HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS
2020
PLACES TO WORK 2020
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36 • MARCH / APRIL 2021