Myth
Hospice is only for cancer patients.
Truth
When hospice began in the US in the mid-1970s, most people cared for by hospice had cancer. Presently, although numerous hospice patients are diagnosed with cancer, a significant proportion also face other life-limiting conditions such as end-stage heart disease, neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s disease, as well as lung or kidney disease, Alzheimer’s, and other dementias.
Myth
Hospice just comes in and kills people.
Truth
The reality of the myth is that people are referred to way too late and only have days to live, whether hospice was involved or not, making it seem like death was hastened by hospice. Studies show that patients who are referred early live 28 days longer than patients with the same diagnosis and did not have hospice.
Myth
Hospice care is designed for individuals who are in the final stages of life, typically within hours or a few days of death.
Truth
Most families tell the Hospice Foundation of America that they wished their loved one received hospice care much earlier in their illness. The earlier an individual receives hospice care. The more opportunity there is to stabilize the medical condition and address other needs. Once the decision is made to opt for hospice care, it is typically regarded as a definitive choice with no option to reverse the decision.
Myth
You can’t keep your own doctor if you enter a hospice program.
Truth
With hospice, a person’s family doctor or specialist is encouraged to remain engaged in their care. The hospice physician can communicate with the physician, who may know the person better (medically) than anyone else, to Micmac the specific medical needs that will be addressed in developing an individual care plan. The patient can also still see their physician for an appointment if they choose to.
Myth
Once the choice is made for hospice care- there is no turning back.
Truth
Individuals have the freedom to discontinue participation in a hospice program at any point without facing any negative consequences or penalties.
Myth
Other Medical care and treatments are not available to hospice patients.
Truth
While the hospice team will provide all aspects of care for the dress that qualifies a person for hospice services. Hospice patients are free to seek treatment, as long as they do not a. the patient’s eligibility.
Myth
Hospice requires a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) Order.
Truth
Having a “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) order is not mandatory to be eligible for hospice care.
Myth
Hospice is only for the elderly.
Truth
Hospice care is available to anyone of any age who is facing a life-limiting illness.