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When Should I Begin Hospice Care?
In the United States, hospice care is available to any individual who, in the opinion of two physicians, has a life expectancy of six months or less. Although many individuals […]
In the United States, hospice care is available to any individual who, in the opinion of two physicians, has a life expectancy of six months or less. Although many individuals choose hospice care after pursuing curative treatments for some period of time, prior attempts to cure an underlying illness or illnesses is not a prerequisite. Persons wishing to enter hospice must choose to forgo potentially curative treatments such as cancer chemotherapy or kidney dialysis. However, they will still receive medically necessary treatment that is aimed at symptom control and improved quality of life.
With that being said, every person is different, and there is no pat answer as to when it is appropriate to change the goals of care. Much depends on each individual’s circumstances and what they hope to accomplish in the time they have left. One person, for example, may want to do everything possible to stay alive until their grandchild is born or their son graduates from medical school. To them, the side effects of another round of chemotherapy or additional treatments to try to buy a little bit more time may make perfect sense. Another person in a similar situation may have accepted the fact that their disease has run its course and want nothing more than to be as comfortable as possible until their life comes to a natural end.
If you and your care partners are considering hospice, you may first wish to discuss your thoughts with a palliative care specialist who can help you define your goals and determine whether hospice care is right for you at this time. A palliative care doctor may also help you obtain a hospice referral or guide you in advocating for a referral from your treating physician if that is what you decide is best.
