Hospice Huntsville AL

We live in a time when many diseases are treatable and even curable. However, there is a time when death becomes certain and is beyond our control. When it becomes clear that curative approaches will no longer provide benefit to a patient, hospice care may become appropriate. Hospice is a unique type of healthcare whose philosophy involves treating the patient rather than the disease and emphasizes quality of life rather than length of life. They seek to keep patients pain free and try to ensure quality end-of-life care and a dignified death surrounded by loved ones. Although it can be given in the hospital, the majority of hospice patients receive care at home.

Deciding to utilize hospice can be a difficult and personal decision to make. Therefore, the patient, family, and medical practitioner should discuss hospice as an option and decide when it is appropriate. Patients receiving hospice care generally have a life expectancy of six months or less however if the patient improves dramatically, it is always possible to discontinue hospice services and return to treatment for his or her disease.

The hospice staff is highly trained in making sure patients are comfortable and that all medical and emotional needs are appropriately met. Generally, an interdisciplinary team including physicians, nurses, social workers, counselors, clergy, and volunteers work closely together to ensure each patient is receiving comprehensive care.

Services provided include:

Physician and nursing service

Pain and symptom control

Spiritual care

Medical supplies

Home health aide assistance

Social work and counseling services

Bereavement services for family members to help them through the grieving process after the death of the loved one

Respite care to allow family caregivers to rest and rejuvenate

Family conferences to provide updates, stay informed, and express any concerns

All services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.