COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT HOSPICE

Will my physician still serve as my physician when I am on hospice care?

Yes. Hospice does not replace your attending physician. The hospice staff will continue to contact your physician and keep them aware of your condition. Our medical director is available for those that do not have a physician or need home visits made.

When will I see my nurse?

A plan of care will be developed with the patient and family at the time of admission. After discussing the needs in the home the number of visits the patient will receive will be determined. The frequency of visits is changed as the patient's condition changes.

What if I become ill late at night?

North Mississippi has a Registered Nurse on call twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. Simply call the office at any time and a nurse will promptly return your call and make a home visit if necessary.

Who pays for hospice?

Medicare covers Hospice under the hospice benefit. Medicaid and many private insurance companies provide hospice coverage as well. All people, regardless of ability to pay, are entitled to hospice care

What will hospice provide for me?

Hosice will offer support, education and counseling for the patient and family. Hospice will also provide medical supplies, medication and equipment related to the hospice diagnosis.

Who is eligible for hospice care?

Anyone who has an illness that is not curable, with a life expectancy of six months or less if the disease runs its natural course.

Do I have to sign a DNR if I choose hospice?

No. A signed DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) form is not required to receive hospice care.

What happens if the patient lives longer than six months?

If the patient continues to meet criteria for hospice, the physician recertifies the patient for ongoing hospice care. If the patient condition shows improvement, the patient may be discharged from hospice care. Patients may re-elect the hospice benefit at any time if their condition begins to decline.

How do I get hospice care started?

Hospice care can begin with a referral from the patient's physician or the patient/family can notify our office of the desire for hospice. We will then contact the physician to obtain an order for hospice if the physician feels the patient meets criteria.