Myths & Facts

There are many myths about hospice care that may keep people from getting the best care possible, when they need it most.

Myth: I can’t keep my own doctor.
Fact: Patients can keep their own doctors, even after admission to hospice care.

Myth: The only outcome is death.
Fact: Some patients improve with the supportive care of hospice staff to the point that hospice is no longer suitable. Hospice of the Western Reserve maintains contact with these patients
through our Navigator Program and assists in their care and wellness plans.
They can be re-admitted to hospice later if necessary.

Myth: All hospice care is the same.
Fact: There are over 30 hospice care providers in our area. While they all
provide the same general services, there are some differences, such as our ability
to treat pediatric patients, and our hospice care settings.

Myth: Hospice is only for the last days of life.
Fact: Unfortunately most people wait too long. Once it is determined that life expectancy is months rather than years, hospice care is available. To fully benefit from our supportive services, patients and caregivers should seek care early.

Myth: I cannot receive curative treatments while receiving hospice care.
Fact: Patients are free to leave the hospice program to seek curative treatments, and may return to hospice care once they have completed these treatments.

Myth: Hospice care is limited to six months.
Fact: Patients may receive hospice care as long as their condition remains serious.
The hospice team continually assesses that the condition warrants continued care.

Myth: Palliative care is different than hospice care.
Fact: The type of care hospice provides is palliative in nature. It addresses the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of both patient and family. However, Hospice of the Western Reserve also has a Palliative Care Program for individuals whose disease is serious but who are not ready for hospice care, or do not choose it. Patients who wish to continue curative treatments may do so.

Myth: Bereavement services are only available to families whose loved one received
hospice care.
Fact: Hospice of the Western Reserve has a community-based bereavement program that is available to anyone who has experienced a loss due to death, whether or not hospice has been utilized.

Myth: Only a physician can refer an individual to a hospice program.
Fact: Anyone can call Hospice of the Western Reserve to make a referral.

Learn more about Hospice of the Western Reserve by visiting hospicewr.org or 855-852-5050