There are myths that surround hospice care that keep many Americans from enjoying its services. Many believe that it’s only for the wealthy, that it means giving up, and that the patient must first stop receiving treatment for whatever they are dealing with. None of these things are true. Let’s take a look at 5 things you need to know about hospice care.

1. Hospice Care is Not Only For The Wealthy – Hospice is paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans. Fear of costs should never prevent a person from receiving hospice care.
2. Hospice Care is For Anyone With a Life Limiting Illness – You do not have to be on the verge of dying to receive hospice care. If your life is limited by an illness you are eligible to receive hospice care.
3. Hospice Care is Not Limited to a Person’s Home – Research has shown that that the majority of Americans would prefer to be at home at the end of their life, but that is not possible for every person. Some people are in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. People living in nursing homes or assisted living can receive hospice care the same as someone living at home.
4. You Don’t Have to Give Up Your Doctor – This is one of the great misnomers about hospice care. At no point during the service do you have to give up your preferred physician. You may continue to be seen and treated by that doctor.
5. You Will Live Longer – Research has shown that patients who receive hospice care will live a longer life than those who do not.

If you would like further reading on the subject visit the Fox News Health Site for a more in depth view about myths that surround hospice care. However, if you have any questions about hospice care and would like to speak to an expert, or are searching for care for a loved one, contact Crown Hospice or give us a call at (361) 575-5900.