• Overview
•       · William Henke
•       · Tenie Peet
•       · Joe Peabody
• Criteria for Admission
• Services Available
• Starting Services
• Hospice Providers
• Cost
• Myths of Hospice Care
• FAQ's

How well do you know Hospice of the Red River Valley?

Myth:      Hospice care is only for cancer patients.
Fact:       It’s available to anyone coping with the end-stages of diseases including Alzheimer’s, heart and lung diseases, renal failure, AIDS, and many other life-limiting illnesses.

Myth:      Hospice care is only for the elderly.
Fact:       It’s for people of all ages—from infants to the elderly.

Myth:      Hospice care is only provided in a home.
Fact:       It is also provided in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities—wherever you call “home.”

Myth:      Hospice care is expensive.
Fact:       Care and services from Hospice of the Red River Valley are provided to everyone who needs them regardless of insurance coverage or ability to pay. Hospice services—including medication and equipment related to the terminal diagnosis—are completely covered under the Medicare/Medicaid Hospice Benefit. Most private insurance carriers also offer a Hospice benefit. Medications not related to the terminal diagnosis are the patient’s responsibility. Deductibles, co-pays and spend-downs are also the patient’s responsibility.

Myth:      Hospice is for the last days of life.
Fact:       Patients and families benefit most when we begin services as soon as you learn of a terminal diagnosis. Hospice care, at any stage, but particularly early on, can significantly lighten your burden.

Myth:      Hospice workers are all volunteers.
Fact:       While trained volunteers may provide assistance to patients and families, the actual care is provided by highly specialized professional staff including nurses, CNAs, social workers, chaplains and grief specialists.

Myth:      Hospice is for people who have "no hope."
Fact:       With Hospice, the miracle isn't the cure, it is in the caring. The Hospice team provide support and pain relief so families can share quality time and a meaningful, dignified, peaceful end-of-life experience.

Myth:      You can’t contact Hospice until your physician suggests Hospice care.
Fact:       Anyone may call at any time to learn about Hospice’s services. A physician’s order is ultimately required for admission to the Hospice program.