Q. What is hospice care?

A. Hospice is a comfort-oriented philosophy of care designed to provide physical, emotional and spiritual support to those with life-limiting illnesses and their families. A team of trained health care professionals provides specialized services with the guidance of the patient’s physician and the hospice medical director. Whether the patient lives at home, in a skilled nursing environment or other setting, hospice provides compassionate care in familiar surroundings. Village Hospice believes that patients and families coping with a life-limiting illness should receive emotional and spiritual help in preparing for death. Our staff is specially trained to provide the care and support needed by the patient and family with care and compassion.

Q. Where is hospice care provided?

A. Typically, hospice care is provided in a patient’s own home or in the nursing facility or residential care facility where the patient lives. The John Knox Village Care Center also has two hospice care rooms available.

Q. Is hospice care the same for everyone?

A. No. Hospice care is individualized because each patient and each family member is different. Each has unique spiritual and emotional needs. Because of this diversity, our hospice team works hard to be sure we are meeting your individual needs.

Q. Will my own physician continue to provide care?

A. Yes. The Village Hospice team will work closely with your physician to develop a care plan. Then we will communicate regularly with the physician about your status and your needs.

Q. Does Medicare pay for hospice?

A. Yes. Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance covers most services. Since hospice is based on need, a patient is never turned away due to lack of funding.

Q. Do you provide bereavement support?

A. Yes. Following the loss of a loved one, hospice care is available for up to 13 months through its bereavement program. The hospice staff stays in touch with family members through personal visits, phone calls and letters. A number of support groups are available to help family and friends through this difficult time, as well.

Q. Who is eligible for hospice care?

A. A patient may be referred to hospice care when:

• The patient is diagnosed with a life-limiting disease
• The patient’s prognosis is limited to six months
• The patient refuses, or is not eligible for, aggressive care for the life-limiting illness.
• The patient and family participate in the plan of care.

Learn more about Village Hospice

We hope this answers some of your questions, and invite you to visit and discover John Knox Village for yourself. We look forward to seeing you.

For information, or to arrange a private tour, call (816) 525-0986 or click here to contact us by email.