Compliments of Hospice & Palliative Care Buffalo
November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, and this year’s theme is “Meeting You Where You Are.” All too often, Americans who are seriously ill do not receive care that is consistent with their wishes. Hospice & Palliative Care Buffalo wants people to know that there is no better time than now to learn about how you or your loved one may be able to receive the care you need and deserve.
What Is Palliative Care? Palliative Care is specialized care for people of all ages living with a serious illness, including children. Those who qualify for such care may receive that care in any facility, including their own home. Too often, people mistakenly think that palliative care is only intended for those who are terminally ill and beyond help. However, it is an extra layer of support provided to seriously ill patients and their loved ones, including those receiving curative treatment. Receiving palliative care ensures the coordination of a patient’s primary care physician and their specialists. This approach helps minimize emergency department visits and hospitalizations, and includes 24/7 on-call nursing support.
What is Hospice Care? Like palliative care, hospice services ensure that patients with a serious illness, approaching the end of life when all curative treatment has been stopped, experience the highest life quality, medical, emotional, spiritual care, and support possible. Hospice care is only available when a patient is thought to have six months or less to live, and can be provided anywhere a patient considers home and is most comfortable. Grief support and education are also available to families for 13 months after the loss of a loved one.
Does a doctor have to recommend palliative care or hospice care? No. A referral for either hospice or palliative care can come from anyone. It can come from you directly, from a physician, family member, or friend.
When is the right time to call? If you are already wondering if or when to inquire about palliative or hospice care, there is a good chance that you or your loved one may already be eligible to receive such care. Even if you are not currently eligible for palliative or hospice care, gathering information now, prior to a crisis, can help you become a better advocate, and able to make future informed decisions. It is important to discuss hospice and palliative care options with your doctor. Starting such care early may enable you and your loved ones to receive the comfort, care, and peace of mind you need now.
Learn more about Hospice & Palliative Care Buffalo’s comprehensive services and receive the care you need when you need it most, at www.hospicebuffalo.com. The website also enables you to submit a referral form, and provides information about upcoming events, ways to donate or volunteer, and sign up to receive the Journeys newsletter. Help can begin with a simple phone call to 716-686-8000.
