Hospice Care

VNA Hospice 949.263.4870

Concept of Care

An interdisciplinary team of professionals directs a comprehensive program of services designed to support and care for persons in the final phase of a terminal illness. Hospice ensures the patient comfort and dignity, while enhancing the quality of life for patient and family alike. When curative treatment becomes impossible or undesirable, pain relief and symptom management are the primary goals of VNA Hospice. Hospice is a concept that affirms life and encourages the patient to maintain control over decisions which affect the quality of his life. VNA Hospice provides support and respite for the family during the illness, and continued guidance and support during the bereavement period.

• Terminal illness with a prognosis of 6 months or less
• Consent of patient and family
• Physician Order for Hospice care
• Agreement that treatment goals will shift from curative to palliative care. The patient's regimen will center on achieving comfort and symptom control.

• Attending Physician
• Hospice Medical Director
• Registered Nurse
• Home Health Aide
• Social Worker
• Chaplain
• Volunteer
• Dietician, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapists are available by consultation as needs are identified.

• Medications for pain and symptom management
• Medical Equipment
• Oxygen
• Medical Supplies
• Respite Care - Home Health patients can be placed in a care center to allow the caregiver some relief. Cost of the care center room and board is paid by Hospice.

Bereavement Services

Support for surviving family or significant others during their period of mourning for up to thirteen months. Includes support groups, regular mailings, telephone contacts and individual counseling to assist with feelings of grief and loss. Participation is voluntary.

Hospice Insurance

Hospice care is fully covered by the Medicare and Medi-Cal benefit.

Most private insurance and managed care plans (HMO) have a Hospice benefit. Our staff will verify insurance coverage and explain the Hospice benefits available.

All care provided by the attending physician and treatment for conditions not related to the terminal illness continue to be paid for by Medicare and Medi-Cal.

Special funds are available for patients and families without resources, so they may receive Hospice care.