Hospice is a philosophy of care focused on providing comfort, dignity, and support for those facing a terminal illness. It prioritizes pain management, symptom relief, and emotional/spiritual well-being, rather than pursuing curative treatments. Hospice care usually takes place in the patient's home but can also be provided in other settings.

If you or a loved one has a life-limiting illness and the focus of care is shifting from cure to comfort, it may be time to discuss hospice. Signs that indicate exploring hospice might be helpful include frequent hospitalizations, declining health, or if the patient's doctor estimates a prognosis of six months or less.

Absolutely not. Hospice care is about choosing comfort and making the most of the time you have left. It's about focusing on quality of life, surrounded by loved ones, while receiving expert support for every aspect of your well-being.

Most hospice care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans. Avra Hospice's team will work with you to verify your coverage and explain any out-of-pocket costs.

Avra Hospice offers a comprehensive range of services to support both patients and their families:

- Medical Care Management

- Case Management

- Pain and Symptom Management

- Nursing Services

- Medical Equipment and Supplies

- Pharmacy Services

- Social Worker Services

- Continuous Care

- Respite Care

- Support Counseling

- Emotional and Spiritual Counseling

Avra Hospice's care team is made up of dedicated professionals, including:

- Doctors: Specializing in hospice and pain management

- Nurses: Providing skilled care and support

- Social Workers: Offering practical and emotional assistance

- Chaplains/Spiritual Counselors: Supporting your spiritual needs

- Home Health Aides: Assisting with daily care tasks

- Trained Volunteers: Offering companionship and support

Yes! Avra Hospice works in collaboration with your existing doctors to ensure your care plan is coordinated.

Avra Hospice offers 24/7 support. Our nurses are available by phone or for in-person visits when urgent needs or changes in symptoms arise.

If your health improves to a point where you no longer meet hospice eligibility, you can be discharged from the program. Sometimes, patients rejoin hospice later if their condition changes again.

Start by talking with your doctor. If they agree it's the right time, they can help make a referral to Avra Hospice. You can also contact us directly and we will guide you through the process.

Yes! Avra Hospice coordinates care with assisted living facilities to ensure seamless support, even if you are not living at home. Our team will work with your facility's staff to provide pain management, nursing care, emotional support, and any other hospice services you need.

We understand the urgency associated with hospice care. Once a referral is received, Avra Hospice can often start providing services within 24-48 hours. Our goal is to make the transition to hospice care as smooth and quick as possible.

You always have the right to end hospice care at any time, for any reason. If you choose to leave hospice, you might be able to re-enroll later if you become eligible again.

While Avra Hospice doesn't directly provide funeral services, we can connect you with resources in your community. Our bereavement counselors also provide support to families after their loved one has passed, helping them cope with grief.

Avra Hospice wants you to feel informed. Our website offers educational materials about hospice care. Additionally, here are some trusted resources:

- National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (https://www.nhpco.org/)

- Medicare: Hospice Benefits (https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/02154-medicare-hospice-benefits.pdf)