Selecting a hospice care program for a cherished family member can be daunting. You want to ensure your loved one receives the best care during this delicate time. Hospice care programs offer a team of professionals who provide medical, emotional, and spiritual support to patients and their families.
A Hospice Care Program Must Have the Following 8 Qualities
Here are eight qualities to look for in a hospice care program.
- Quality #1: Accreditation. The first quality to look for in a hospice care program is accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the highest quality standards and provides safe, effective care to patients. The Joint Commission or the Community Health Accreditation Program (CHAP) typically accredits hospice care programs.
- Quality #2: Staff Credentials. For a hospice care program to be effective, it is important to have a skilled team of professionals such as doctors, nurses, social workers, aides/CNA, and chaplains. These professionals must possess the appropriate qualifications and expertise to ensure that patients and their loved ones receive high-quality care.
- Quality #3: Availability of Services. Hospice care programs should offer a range of services to meet the needs of patients and their families. These services may include pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, and bereavement counseling. The program should also be available 24/7 to provide support and care as needed.
- Quality #4: Communication. Communication is key in hospice care. The hospice care program should have an open line of communication with patients and their families to ensure that their needs and concerns are being addressed. The program should also communicate with other healthcare providers involved in the patient’s care to ensure continuity.
- Quality #5: Patient and Family Involvement. Patients and their families should be included in hospice care plans and have a say in the care they receive. They should also be involved in making decisions throughout the entire process.
- Quality #6: Cultural Competence. Hospice care programs must possess cultural competence and exhibit sensitivity toward the needs of different communities. This encompasses comprehending cultural beliefs and rituals associated with passing and providing care that honors those beliefs.
- Quality #7: Grief and Bereavement Support. Hospice care should offer emotional support to patients and their families who are going through the grieving process. This can include various methods such as therapy, group meetings, and other tools to assist families when losing someone close to them.
- Quality #8: Cost and Insurance Coverage. Hospice care programs should be transparent about the cost of care and what is covered by insurance. The program should work with patients and families to ensure that they understand their insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket costs associated with care.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a hospice care program for a loved one is a difficult decision. It’s important to look for a program that is accredited, has a team of highly trained professionals, offers a range of services, has open communication, involves patients and families in decision-making, is culturally competent, provides grief and bereavement support, and is transparent about cost and insurance coverage. By choosing a hospice program with these qualities, you can ensure your loved one receives the best care during this time.
If you’re searching for the best hospice in Atlanta, look no further than Golden Rule Hospice. Our team of licensed professionals provides personalized care to ensure your loved one receives the support they need. Contact us today at (470) 395-6567 to learn more about our services and how we can help you and your family.
We live by the Golden Rule
Treat others the way you would like to be treated.
