Hospice is a philosophy of care and a philosophy of life. The hospice philosophy embraces a holistic approach that encompasses the physical, emotional, spiritual, and social needs of the individual and family. The patient and family are seen as the unit of care. Care has to be individualized to meet the patient's and family's needs, as well as being responsive to the differences in lifestyles. The hospice philosophy:

• Affirms Life
• Promotes self-determination, including patients and families in the plan of care
• Provides education to help patients and families provide appropriate care
• Promotes understanding and accepting that the journey of life eventually leads to death, encouraging everyone to view the experience as an opportunity for growth
• Emphasizes palliation, which includes physical, psychological, and spiritual comfort delivered by a multidisciplinary team.

When medical treatments have been exhausted or the burden of treatment outweighs the benefits, it is time to consider hospice. Most people would like to spend the last days of their lives surrounded by friends and family. Most people, if asked, do not want to die in a hospital, on machines, or in unnecessary surgery. Most people choose comfort but family or doctors may keep them in curative treatment too long.

By bringing services into the home, Long Term Care Facility, or Assisted Living Facility,hospices help patients and families provide necessary care and education. Patients and families are able to retain a greater sense of control over end of life events with this knowledge and assistance. Hospice is optimal at home with caregivers (family). However, it is also incredibly beneficial in nursing homes and assisted living facilities to ensure pain and symptom management as well as to provide support to patients and families.

The hospice experience can foster spiritual and personal growth as the hospice team empowers patients and families to manage difficult situations.

How is hospice paid for?

Hospice care is a benefit of Medicare, Medicaid, and many private insurances. Agency fund raising and private donations allow Harrison’s Hope to provide care for individuals with no hospice benefit.

When should the decision be made to start hospice?

At any time during a life-limiting illness it is important to discuss all the options; including hospice. The decision belongs to the patient and his or her physician. The earlier hospice is involved the more likely that patient’s final days will be comfortable and satisfying.

How does the Hospice care begin?

Referrals to Hospice may be made by the primary care physician, a family member, a friend, clergy or other health professional. The physician must certify that the patient has a terminal illness and qualifies for hospice care. Shortly after receiving the referral a hospice representative contacts the family and will complete an evaluation to make sure the patient qualifies for hospice services under the insurance guidelines.

Do I have to leave my physician to obtain Hospice care?

The primary care physician can serve on the hospice team as the attending physician. Our medical director (Dr. Jon Chu) can work with the primary care physician providing expertise in pain management and end of life care.

Proudly Serving Ada, Boise, Canyon, Elmore, Gem, Payette and Washington Counties

Jackie Johnson, LSW
Harrison's Hope, A Caring Hospice
1979 N. Locust Grove Rd.
Meridian, ID 83646

Phone #: (208) 947-6800

Email contact@harrisonshope.com
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Member of the Treasure Valley Advisory Board with the Idaho Care Planning Council.