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: 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.
