End-of-life issues are not usually discussed at the dinner table. Yet the manner in which we pass away affects more than just the patient. A terminal patient wishes to be comfortable and at peace as the last days and weeks pass. However, so do loved ones, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and acquaintances. For all parties concerned, the right environment in which to live out the final phase is crucial.
Hospice care in Louisiana runs the gamut in terms of quality. It is delivered within the walls of a facility dedicated to that purpose or, alternatively, it is done at home or in the environment of nursing care. Above all, hospice services are palliative, meaning they are meant to soothe, comfort and relieve pain, as opposed to treating or attempting to cure a disease or ailment. Specifically, Louisiana hospice care services include the following standard offerings:
- Physician care — monitoring condition, prescribing medication etc.
- Nursing care — assisting with movement, maintaining a clean, comfortable setting and administering prescribed drugs
- Medical equipment — hospital beds and wheelchairs, etc.
- Medical dressings and other applications — bandages, catheters etc.
- Pain medicine
- Physical therapy
- Social worker services
- Spiritual Ministries
It’s important to remember that hospice care is not open-ended. Medicare rules define eligible patients to possess a life expectancy of six months or less. Of course, there are people that may exceed this estimate, so re-certification might become necessary. Whatever the length of caregiving, seeking out the best hospice care in Louisiana means asking the right questions.
1. Who does what?
Home hospice services most often supplement family caregiving, as opposed to substituting for it. When evaluating Louisiana hospice care, it serves loved ones well to understand where the boundaries are. For example, care is not around the clock. However, will a professional be available if an emergency arises? Are volunteers available to help between doctor and nurse visits? Understanding the ground rules up front avoids unpleasant surprises later.
2. How long has the hospice program been operating?
Well-established hospice services build up a reputation in their communities. Hospice of South Louisiana, for example, has served its region for nearly 30 years. In this time, its sensitivity and efficiency have garnered much praise from patients and families. This is not to say that more recently organized providers are of poor quality. Just be sure to perform due diligence before making a selection.
3. Are the physicians, nurses and other workers certified in palliative care?
Professional medical societies now offer credentials to trained and eligible practitioners. Lacking them should not be a deal-breaker, but instead, a helpful distinction when all else is equal.
4. How does the staff respond when hospital admittance becomes necessary?
Some hospice providers make arrangements with specific institutions. Caregivers should know which ones are party to it and where they are. This avoids unnecessary transportation to an unapproved facility. Hospice of South Louisiana provides all the necessary information on how and where to admit a loved one.
5. What about the volunteers?
Hospices are unique among health care providers as they are legally charged to utilize volunteers to assist with their mission. It is advisable to inquire as to the competence and quality of volunteers retained for service. Hospice of South Louisiana maintains a capable, empathetic and well-screened corps of volunteers who assist in many areas of operation.
Any More Questions? Just Ask!
Clearly, these are but a few of the necessary questions to ask when making this most difficult decision. Hospice of South Louisiana stands ready to answer these, and any other queries that relatives and friends may have.
Feel free to contact us locally at 985.868.3095 or toll-free at 888.893.3829 today with any and all questions you might have about quality hospice care.