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| Admission Process |
Admission into a hospice program is a matter of choice. Individuals and families considering hospice care often have many questions. Here are answers to a few, but please call us at (716) 439-4417 if you wish to speak to a hospice professional.
Who qualifies for hospice care?
Niagara Hospice provides care to Niagara County residents whose prognosis is approximately six months or less, if the disease runs its normal course, regardless of their diagnosis. If curative treatment is no longer effective or you desire a treatment plan based on comfort measures, hospice care may be appropriate for you.
Who can make a referral?
Anyone can call the Hospice office at (716) 439-44417 to obtain information or to make a referral for hospice care. If you or a family member calls, we will ask your permission to contact your primary physician to verify that Hospice is appropriate for you and to request medical information regarding your illness.
What happens once a referral is made?
Once a referral has been made, an appointment will be set up to visit you at your convenience to discuss services offered by Niagara Hospice. If you want hospice care and your doctor confirms the diagnosis, services can begin the same day. If you wish to take time to consider the information presented, another visit can be arranged.
When should I call Hospice?
If you have been diagnosed with a potentially life-threatening illness, it’s time to find out about hospice services so an informed decision can be made regarding your choices. You can ask your physician about hospice care or call us at (716) 439-4417.
Early hospice referral enables the hospice team to provide support to patients and primary care givers at the earliest guidelines permit. As disease progression occurs, your goals can be met and issues that might arise can be addressed immediately.
What about payment?
Most health insurances, including Medicare and Medicaid, have hospice coverage. No one is denied care due to ability to pay. Care for patients without insurance or with limited insurance is paid for privately and can be based on a sliding fee scale. Niagara Hospice also raises funds to help off-set costs of the underinsured. |
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