When Is It Time
for Hospice?
If someone you know is showing noticeable health declines or significant ongoing pain, and curative treatment is no longer an option, it might be time to talk about hospice. Patients who begin hospice earlier have higher quality of life, fewer hospitalizations and lower medical costs. The costs of hospice care are covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance.
We’re here to answer your questions.
Signs That It Might Be Time for Hospice
Consider these common signs:
- Increased hospitalizations or ER visits
- Progressive weight loss
- Change in comprehension (confusion, disorientation)
- More needed assistance with activities of daily living, e.g. personal care
- Increased incontinence, edema (swelling), weakness and/or shortness of breath
- Falls causing injury
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Decrease in appetite
- Taking nine or more daily medications
- Increased number of infections or wounds
If you have noticed one or more of the above signs within the past year, it’s time for hospice. Make a referral for a complimentary hospice consultation or consider talking to your doctor about hospice care. Anyone can make a referral, including patients or their loved ones.
How To Start Hospice Care
Referral
You can request a hospice referral from your loved one’s primary doctor, but a doctor’s referral is not required. Anyone, including a family member, may make a hospice referral by calling St. Croix Hospice 24/7 at 855-278-2764.
Complimentary Consult
We’ll meet with you in person or by phone to help you determine if it’s time for a hospice assessment.
Assessment
Our RN Case Manager will meet with you and your loved one for a virtual or in-person assessment to determine hospice eligibility. During their visit they’ll share with you the benefits of hospice care, gather information such as recent health declines and concerning symptoms, and learn whether at-home hospice care is being considered.
Admission
A St. Croix Hospice physician will review the assessment for a formal admission as a St. Croix Hospice patient.
Contact Us
We’re Here For You 24/7
St. Croix Hospice is here to help. When you choose St. Croix Hospice, you’ll receive the education, resources and support you need, right from the start.
IF YOU NEED HELP IMMEDIATELY
We are available by phone 24/7 including nights, weekends, and holidays. Please call (855) 278-2764 for urgent questions or support regarding a current patient.