What Is Hospice? | Who Provides Hospice Care? | What Our Patients Say

It is a common misunderstanding that Hospice means you have only days to live. No one knows when they will die-it maybe six months or even years. But if you have an advanced illness that cannot be cured.

Most importantly, Hospice manages symptoms to maintain or enhance quality of life. Many of our Hospice patients:

• Continue with hobbies or life interests.
• Eat at their favorite restaurants.
• Go on vacation.
• Take car rides.
• Visit with friends and family.

Does Insurance Cover Hospice Care?

Most insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover Hospice. Hospice care is based on the patient’s needs, not ability to pay. Individuals with limited resources or who are uninsured can receive assistance, thanks to generous donations from the community.

What Else Is Provided?

Hospice also pays for additional items that are related to the patient's terminal illness such as: medications, equipment and other personal comfort items.

Our team of Hospice Specialists are committed to providing patients with high-quality, compassionate, End-of-Life care 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Our team includes:

• A full-time Physician, board certified in Hospice & Palliative Care, oversees the program.
• Nurses nationally certified in Hospice and Palliative Care.
• Masters-prepared Medical Social Workers.
• Experienced Chaplains.
• Hospice-trained Home Health Aides and Volunteers.
• A full range of other healthcare professionals from Susquehanna Health including Pharmacists, Therapists, and Dieticians.

Where does Hospice Care take place?

Most people receive Hospice care in their home, nursing home, assisted living facility or in The Gatehouse. Symptoms are managed so people can live a full life with the support of family and friends.

When do we have to decide?

There is never any obligation to choose Hospice. We are happy to visit with you and your family or friends, talk about your situation and needs and answer all of your questions. You can begin Hospice whenever you feel it's the right time and choice for you.

"To everyone at Hospice who was a part of caring for our dad, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all that you did for us. Your compassion and guidance made this most difficult time somewhat more bearable. You will be remembered in our hearts."

"Please convey my thanks to all of your staff. You truly provided comfort to mother and to us and for that we are grateful. It is of great comfort to us to know that Hospice exists and provides such important services to all. Thank you!"

"Speaking for our family, we want to thank you for making our aunt's final days more peaceful and comfortable."

"Thank you all for your part in Mom's care. She appreciated your visits and efforts to keep her comfortable. Our nurse was so kind and made us feel confident that we were on the right path. I think mom's peacefulness was directly related to your care."

"Dear Hospice Nursing Staff, we would like to express our sincere appreciation for the exceptional care you provided during my husbands'/our fathers' battle against cancer. Your staff are truly angels from Heaven! We could not have done it without you!"

"What a privilege to know some of you. Firsthand knowledge of all you do to help families puts a new face on the word "Hospice." Thank you and God Bless each one of you."

"Thank you for all the care that you gave our mother during her final weeks. She enjoyed the time that she spent with each of you. The nurses were great on the day that mother passed away. Words cannot say what your involvement has meant. Thank you for everything."

"When my father passed away, I reflected on the support your staff provided. It was always helpful and reassuring to ask questions and get a better understanding of the final stages of my father's lung cancer. Your staff was always very caring and willing to provide whatever support or knowledge was needed."

"We are very thankful for your kindness and tender loving care shown to our father and husband during his last week on earth. The staff will be remembered always. You are in our thoughts and prayers for your wonderful guidance."

"We can't begin to thank you enough for your comfort, caring and helping us to fulfill Dad's final wishes."