How Do Hospice and Palliative Care Work? Our Guide

Although no one wishes to get sick, preparing for a life-limiting illness is something that you should not be afraid of. After all, you will surely want a comfortable and safe care environment when this moment happens. In fact, knowing what options are available for care is a way of preparation, and we are here to help you understand how the different options work.

Typically, you and your family have two choices to consider, depending on the specific stage of the disease: hospice care and palliative care.

But how do these two options work? In this article, we will share their differences to help you determine the best option suitable for you and your family’s needs:

Hospice Care

Hospice care is a compassionate type of comfort given to patients who have a terminal illness and a prognosis of six months or less to live if their disease runs its expected course. It focuses on the quality of life for people experiencing an advanced life-limiting illness. It is not curative, but it treats the person and symptoms of the disease rather than treating the disease itself. Here are several other vital pieces of information to consider:

Coverage: Medicare, Medicaid, and most types of private insurance cover hospice care 100 percent. Patients undergoing hospice care can include medication (related to their diagnosis), equipment, nursing, chaplain visits, grief support and nursing included in their insurance.

Eligibility: It is required for two physicians to certify that the patient is expected to live for six months or less if their disease follows its normal course to be eligible for hospice care.

Location of Care: Patients who undergo hospice care are typically located at a patient’s home or in independent/assisted living facilities.

Palliative Care

Palliative care, on the other hand, offers comfort care with or without curative intent. It is specialized medical care for people living with serious illness, and it is focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of the disease. Those who offer palliative care can provide care at home or work in a hospital.Palliative care offers a specially-trained team of doctors, nurses, and other specialists who work together with a patient’s other doctors to provide extra support. Palliative care must be based on the needs of the patient, not on the patient’s prognosis. Here are the aspects to consider regarding palliative care:

Coverage: This care type depends on the patient’s insurance plan. Although some private insurance providers cover certain types of palliative care, patients may still have to shoulder some co-pays.

Eligibility: It is the physician’s discretion if the patient can begin palliative care, regardless of their current stage of illness and whether or not their condition is terminal.

Location of Care: A patient can receive palliative care in hospitals, outpatient palliative care clinics, nursing homes, or homes.

Contact Hospice Care Team in Georgia

No matter what type of care you choose, keep in mind that both options are still aimed at relieving pain and symptoms in patients with life-limiting diseases. The goal is to improve the quality of life, so it is ideal to choose reliable hospice care in your locality.

If you are looking for the best care for you and your loved ones, Golden Rule Hospice can provide the quality of life you need. Our company focuses on returning compassionate care and dignity to patients while giving home health services in Atlanta, GA. Contact us at (470) 395-6567 today for a free consultation to find out how we can support you!

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Golden Rule Hospice

4.9

Based on 53 reviews

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Mary Clarice H.

I truly don't even know where to start. Golden Rule was EXCELLENT from the time they showed up at the hospital to go over paperwork, to the very end and even after my cousin passed away. It was one of the hardest situations I have ever been in and Golden Rule made it as seamless as possible. The intake nurse was very thorough in the beginning, every nurse that came was so kind, our main hospice nurse, Shameka, was literally incredible, as was the weekend nurse Deanna that came by. Tre was our main CNA and she was also great! Myclette came by on several occasions to check in. Honestly, from the CNA, nurses, to the Chaplain, I don't think I went three hours without getting a call or text every day and someone coming by nearly every day. I cannot recommend this company enough. No one ever wants to be in the situation where you have to use hospice, but if you are in that situation, I honestly wouldn't choose anyone else. They aren't just there for medical stuff, they truly care and it was very apparent. The day my cousin passed, Shameka was there for two hours because she knew it wouldn't be much longer and kept saying "I don't want to leave her." She even was emotional at one point because she could just sense how special my cousin and family truly was. I had a few phone calls from different staffers and nurses just to see how my family was doing, after my cousin passed away. They truly do care. I am sure I am forgetting details but I can promise you, if I am ever in this situation again (although I am ok if I am not...🙃), this is who I am calling.

Zarrin I.

Vivienne has done a great job at our house. We are thankful for her care and appreciate the time she spends here.

Nancy B.

Reggie and Vivian have provided great care for my father. They are gentle and kind and Dad feels comforted and well cared for.

Americo B.

My wife went really fast, was gone in three days. She just loved our nurse and the caring and compassion she showed my wife. It meant a lot. They immediately set about to make sure she was in no pain. She passed away and her face showed no sign of being in pain. She looked like she was peacefully sleeping. Thanks for the care you gave her.

WLASHAUN J.

This is our first experience with Golden Rule. So far, so good. Each week we receive a report as the facility...we like that.Vivian, the CNA has been the BEST-compassionate for sure. Reggie responds quickly and is attentive to the need of resident and staff. As the Executive Director, we are pleased with Golden Rule Hospice.

Ayers B.

From Tracy Ayers & Kurt Kinoshita. The staff from beginning to end were gentle and thoughtful with all their interactions. From Angie, the intake nurse, to Chris who was filling in in those first days. Also Liz and the volunteers who checked in during the whole process. Also the nurses who helped answer my phone call questions. Most importantly were Reggie my hospice nurse and Vivian my CNR. Those two helped me know what we were doing for my wife was correct. I thank you for the upfront honesty when I asked for it. I especially am so thankful for the amount of respect Reggie and Vivian showed my wife. I cannot say more about the whole process and how easy it was for me to use Golden Rule.

Yara H.

I cannot express enough gratitude for Shamile and Vivian and the rest of the Golden Rule Hospice team who cared for my dad. They were incredibly caring and responsive to all of his needs, always treating him with the utmost compassion and respect. Their ability to communicate with us through text made things so much easier during hard times. It gave us peace of mind knowing we could reach out at any moment, and they always responded with kindness. Truly, these are loving and dedicated people who go above and beyond. My dad was always so comfortable with Vivian, and after being agitated for hours, her gentle care would relax him so much that he would fall into a peaceful sleep every time she visited. We felt supported every step of the way, and I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of hospice care.

Yolanda W.

THIS COMPANY IS AMAZING!!!! REGGIE AND VIVIAN COME TO MONTCLAIR ASSISTED LIVING AND TAKE VERY GOOD CARE OF OUR RESIDENTS, THEY ALSO GO OVER AND BEYOND WITH HELPING US WITH OUR WELLNESS CLINIC EVERY MONTH. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A GREAT HOSPICE COMPANY WITH THESE TOO TAG TEAMING, THESE ARE THE PERFECT ONES TO CHOOSE!!

Velvet W.

Minnie Baker is a blessing to the hospice team.She dies an amazing job taking care of our love one at Briarwood nursing home.Sge made sure he was always clean and dressed very well. She has a wonderful personality to go with her professional attitude

Judy M.

We engaged with Golden Rule to help care for our seeet Mimi. It turned out to be a long 7 months, but the wonderful people at Golden Rule were with us every step of the way. From our side, Stephanie, who showed such love and compassion to our Mimi, to the social worker who helped us source additional care, to the spiritual provider who checked in with us regularly, to our nurse, Chris, who ensured Mimi received the best possible care, and to all the folks behind the scenes. Everyone was here not just for our loved one but to support the family and to help reduce the burden anyway they could. Whether it was getting us equipment and supplies or just checking in, they were always there for us. It is an incredibly difficult decision to call for hospice care, but when the time comes it is the best decision. Please don’t try to do it alone when these wonderful people are here to help. We wanted our sweet Mimi to pass away at home and that never would have been possible without the team at Golden Rule.

Neenee L.

Ms Minnie CNA,and Reggie cook RN are the best at when they come in our building Haborview I recommend and recognize their hard work and dedication 😉

Veronica E.

I am very grateful to Golden Rule Hospice for the awesome services that they are providing for my family. Our CNA Caroline is caring, attentive and patient with my mom. Caroline’s love and kindness puts my mom at ease. She treats my mom as if she is her mom and for this I am ever thankful.

Cheryl M.

The staff at “ Golden Rule Hospice” demonstrated unwavering dedication, professionalism, and kindness throughout the time I spent working with them. They not only provided expert medical care for my client but also extended emotional support and guidance to the family. “ Chris Hill, RN” was amazing. My agency “ Professional Care Nursing Agency” will always & most definitely recommend this company.

Raymond H.

My experience with CNA Minnie Baker at Golden Rule Hospice has been exceptional. Ms. Baker's dedication and attentiveness have made a significant difference in the care of our loved one during their transition.Ms. Baker's professionalism and empathy shine through in her interactions. She takes the time to understand our loved one's needs and ensures they are met with the utmost care and compassion. Her gentle demeanor and reassuring presence have provided comfort during this challenging time.One of the things that stand out about Ms. Baker is her attention to detail. She goes above and beyond to make sure our loved one is comfortable and receiving the best treatment possible. Whether it's adjusting pillows, ensuring medication schedules are followed, or simply offering a listening ear, Ms. Baker's dedication to her work is evident.Furthermore, Ms. Baker is proactive in addressing any concerns or changes in our loved one's condition. She communicates effectively with the rest of the hospice team, including nurses and doctors, to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding our loved one's care plan.Overall, I cannot speak highly enough of Ms. Minnie Baker and the care she provides at Golden Rule Hospice. Her professionalism, attentiveness, and compassion make her an invaluable member of the hospice team, and we are grateful for her dedication to ensuring our loved one's comfort and well-being during this difficult time.I would also like to add that hospice nurse Shamille was amazing as well! Such an amazing spirit and truly knows and loves her job. We are forever grateful for this amazing company as they help my loved one transition with dignity and pride.

Geoff W.

Chris & Ebony are the consummate caring and professional staff we were hoping to find. EXCELLENT communicators, conscientious, on time and relevant. We are 100% pleased with their care if Mom.

Allison D.

Golden Rule Hospice has been a blessing to our family. Chris and Dawn have been wonderfully kind and patient with my mother. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Our questions and concerns were always answered quickly, and Golden Rule stayed in constant contact with us throughout my mother’s time in their care. We will continue to recommend them highly.

Dan R.

Harlee and Stephanie from Golden Rule provide hospice care for my sister who is a resident in the memory unit at The Lodge near Jasper. As my sister’s disease progresses she needs professional and loving care beyond what the Lodge’s staff can provide (they also do a great job) - but the hospice care Golden Rule provides is necessary and critical. The extra care my sister receives is making a difference for my sister’s well being. They address issues quickly and ensure my sister’s care, from them and the entire Golden Rule hospice team and they coordinate well with the memory care staff. If you need hospice care, I definitely recommend you check out Golden Rule.

Kathy H.

During such a hard time, Golden Rule hospice has made this process easier. Our nurse Chris Hill, has demonstrated extreme patience, shown amazing bed size manners, and has shared his incredible knowledge of the process and stages we would endure.Our CNA Andre is extremely gentle with a caring touch. His patience and ideas on how to make our fathers care more comfortable is second to none.We love our entire team; including our weekend on call nurse Sunday. Who always brings a smile to the room.This has been a difficult and rewarding process made better by the Golden Rule Team.

Robert L.

Stephanie does a magnificent job with my wife. She is very understanding and a great comfort to her. She listens to my wife's needs and helps in anyway that she can. She is a fine representative of Golden Rule and I couldn't ask for a better person to care for my wife.Robert Lomba

Diana P.

Golden Rule Hospice was highly recommended by my GP when my husband became so ill. So very grateful I took his advice. Each and every person I have met thru this company has shown such kindness and empathy for myself and my husband in our situation. I cannot thank them enough for all they do. I recommend Golden Rule to any family in need .

lori F.

Golden Rule Hospice is a great organization with truly caring and kind caregivers! They are always quick to respond with help and solutions for any medical or other issues that arise. They check-in often to update us and to make sure our loved one is happy with their services. We are grateful for all of the wonderful support they provide.

Monique S.

The staff at Golden Rule Hospice were awesome while taking care of my mom who had end stage Alzheimers dementia. Through the rough times theircare and compassion was unwavering.Mom enjoyed her visits from Nurse Penny and caregiver Dawn. She looked forward to their visits which were a highlight of her day. I am thankful to all who assisted in her care. They are extended family.Nurse Penny has sent weekly inspirational messages since my mom's passing on January 17, 2024. The messages are encouraging and greatly appreciated.Thank you Golden Rule Hospice!

JL K

When Piedmont Fayette Hospital abruptly informed me that my father was going to die, and they were releasing him to home hospice at my house. I was shocked and in a panic. Because of that, I regrettably took the social workers recommendation for the initial hospice provider- Compassus… (see that review separately) they were AWFUL.I started frantically searching for another hospice provider which is how I found Golden Rule Hospice and let me tell you, they are INCREDIBLE!Home hospice is not an enjoyable experience by any stretch of the imagination, but the folks at Golden Rule made it as bearable as I think, such an experience can be. The difference between the two providers was stark; callous indifference from the first one to genuine Care and compassion from Golden Rule. Every person I encountered from Golden Rule was gentle, patient and kind. Not just to my father, but to my husband and me as well. In fact, my husband had a business trip scheduled for the following week and I was fretting about how I would manage by myself and they told me not to worry, they’d find my dad a bed in an inpatient facility for the night, which was a huge relief- even though we ultimately didn’t need it.I also wanted to find an aquamation provider for my fathers remains but I was unable to locate one on my own so I decided to ask the social worker assigned to me at Golden Rule and she quickly got back to me with the only provider in GA!! (At the time at least)The staff continued to follow up with me after my father’s passing to check in on how we were doing, it felt like they genuinely cared. Thank you golden rule for living up to your name!

Cheryl L.

Words are inadequate to truly express our thanks to Golden Rule Hospice and Chaplain Joe for going over and beyond to provide grief counseling for us. The sessions were very encouraging and helpful as we adjust to our new norm.

stanka P.

My experience with Vivian Robinsonfrom hospice @ Montclair/ Clairmont place has been phenomenal she’s very knowledgeable and explains things very easily for you to understand. Vivian is great at what she does and not to mention very caring and thoughtful with the patient and their families. I’ve had the pleasure as a Private caregiver to experience all of her greatfulness and loving compassionate spirit, she’s been wonderful with my client and I’ve seen how great she works with other residents she goes over and beyond also by providing beautiful accessories and clothing for the residents to look nice at all times. Lastly from everyone I’ve met thru Golden Rule are great at what they do and everyone is so loving and caring and they really care about the patients and are not just there for a check which makes a huge difference. I would highly recommend Vivian and any other staff from Golden Rule for your hospice care needs. Excellent job

marion C.

Vivian Robinson is a wonderful caregiver who takes excellent care of my wife who unfortunately suffers from dementia. Vivian is patient but firm when needed and always completes the cleaning tasks efficiently but with kindness. Vivian has a helpful and compassionate personality and it is reflective in all her activities with my wife. I am most appreciative of her concern for my wife and her many efforts to ensure my wife’s dignity is maintained even under difficult circumstances. I recommend her highly. Marion Creekmore

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Shantel H.

Shermain is attentive and engaged with my grandmother. I appreciate her keeping me in the loop when she goes to care for her. Shermain has been an asset and blessing to us:)

Josephine W.

Sherman is a very outstanding person she is so good to my mother and me ya'll need a lot more people like her she is a lot helpful and very caring person thank u so much shamaine

Laura B.

The CMA nurse (Shermain) is just an outstanding care person with my mother Mrs. Lourene Hall. My mother really love, and she know how to handle my mother. I thank God you all have Shermain on your team.

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MONA L.

22:44 01 Mar 23

This place is completely amazing. And the one Amazing CNA named Ms. Minnie Baker, she is an angel in disguise. I don't see her all the time but she is always there when I'm at my lowest with my family. If you ever have the pleasure of meeting her take the time. She is just a Truly An Angel from heaven.

The Key && Tre S.

19:25 01 Mar 23

My grandma is at phoenix of lake Lanier and she has the best hospice nurse her name is Marian Trice she is the best nurse my grandma has had since she’s been there she’s so great my grandma ask for her daily we love her and thank you guys for her .

Celina F.

19:05 01 Mar 23

Thankyou to Marian, for all you do!! A wonderful Nurse, during challenging times, as these, I feel confident my Grandmother has the best care. You have such a gentle touch, professional and ohh so Patient!! Our Family can not Thankyou enough!

Chelly N.

18:33 01 Mar 23

The residents have already started sparkling! Thank you Ms Vivian R. Thank you Golden rule..U rock! Clinical director , Montclair PCH

Carmen R.

17:24 01 Mar 23

Vivan Robinson is a CNA for Golden Rule Hospice she is a genuine individual who performs patient care with compassion.

Joshua S.

01:16 01 Mar 23

Vivan R- is one of the most caring person I know, she’s takes great care for the ones she cares for. Her work ethic is like no other.

Robin H.

23:17 28 Feb 23

My Mother’s CNA Kia is a super bright light at Golden Rule Hospice. I have truly appreciated all of her care and support. Kia is extremely professional and kind. You can tell she really cares about what she does. She has been a real comfort and a big help to my mom. I can’t say thank you enough.

Jalina R.

21:41 28 Feb 23

Vivian R- Works for golden rule hospice. she is an excellent caregiver for anyone that she takes care of. She is very thorough, and does above and beyond. I would recommend this company to anyone. They are amazing.

Adrienne M.

16:25 28 Feb 23

My family and I were connected with Alex Raspberry after our Dad’s hospital stay for congestive hear failure. As a result of this diagnosis our family started planning for Dad’s transition with hospice care. Alex provided detailed information about Golden Rule Hospice services, the care givers and various assisted living and nursing care options. Alex listened to our needs. He was kind and responsive. Although we did not use Golden Rule Hospice I would highly recommend Alex and his team to friends and family in the Atlanta area.God BlessAdrienne McClary Holland

Tara G.

21:25 24 Feb 23

I absolutely love Vivian Robinson! She is the most amazing person you could ever meet! Vivian takes great care of our residents here at Legacy Ridge at Marietta! She never falls short on care! She always communicates with me and my team! The residents love her so much! Golden Rule has a winner with Vivian!Signed a happy Executive Director!🥰

Gwynn Blount B.

16:06 22 Feb 23

Caroline continues to provide great CNA support. She is knowledgeable, flexible and caring. My Mom absolutely loves her and so do I. Not sure what we would do without her.

Cavel B.

22:59 17 Feb 23

My mom was so well taken care of by Nurse Roderette and Caroline in her final days. They are truly Angels on Earth. I appreciate how kind they were to our family. Outstanding service with love.

Vinetta H.

23:46 12 Oct 22

This agency is a blessing. They came in and provided all the help that I needed to care for my loved one. They are very helpful. I love all the ladies that came to my house. I would recommend them for your Hospice needs.

Ana C.

12:36 12 Apr 22

Terri S.

21:17 21 Feb 22

Once hospice was suggested for my mother, I got several recommendations and during a very difficult time was pleased with our choice of Golden Rule! From the initial meeting, to the compassionate care my mother received for 5 months , to follow up phone calls after my mother passed, the entire staff was highly personable and professional. My mother always felt comfortable and confident with her caregivers. Her wishes were always considered and she was treated with such dignity. Penny was an awesome nurse, always willing to have the most difficult but honest conversations with me ! If your loved one is in need of hospice / palliative care I can assure you that he/she will be “in the best hands” with Golden Rule

Penny C.

16:04 18 Feb 22

Jason Y

16:44 15 Feb 22

I really enjoyed the service of this hospice especially from Danielle and her great personality. She made every visit an amazing experience for my uncle before he passed away. I highly recommend this hospice

reggie C.

14:11 11 Feb 22

Golden Rule Hospice is a wonderful company, I definitely recommend it.

Danielle W.

21:21 10 Feb 22

Tiara T.

21:20 10 Feb 22

Angela L.

17:33 05 Mar 21

They provide the best service ever to our Residents in their care. Their clinical manager, Barbara Folks-Pryce, who comes to our community is the reason I choose this provider as our preferred hospice group. She is professional, kind, and understanding. She excels in listening, anticipating the needs of our Residents, and executing our requests. We greatly appreciate her excellent communication with our nursing staff and that she's always available whether in person or by phone. I'm truly impressed with Barbara's exemplary work performance. She's an excellent representation of Golden Rule Hospice.

How Do Hospice and Palliative Care Work? Our Guide