To the editor:

November was National Hospice Month and across the country, hospices were honoring patients and families coping with life-limiting illness, while recognizing the professionals and volunteers who provide high-quality care to those who need it most.

Hospice uses a team approach to permit a terminally ill patient to die in comfort at home, rather than in a hospital. “Home” to that patient may be a private residence, long-term care facility or in-patient hospice facility.

Once a terminal diagnosis of six months or less is received from a physician, the patient is able to access hospice services. For patients who have Medicare, they can elect the Medical Hospice Benefit which will cover the costs of standard hospice services in the home or nursing facility, as well as prescribed medications related to the diagnosis and appropriate durable medical equipment such as hospital beds and wheelchairs. Medicaid and some private insurance policies also provide a hospice benefit.

You have a choice as to whether or not you use hospice care. You also have a choice as to which hospice provider you choose. Do your homework and learn more about the hospice provider. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and make comparisons.

Hospice isn’t a last resort; it’s a final gift you can give yourself and your family.

Julie Prideaux,

Midland Hospice Care,

Lawrence