Can you explain the difference between palliative and hospice care?

While the term 'hospice' is more commonly known, it's crucial to recognize that both palliative and hospice care are united by a shared goal-to enhance the comfort, care, and quality of life of individuals with serious illnesses. Hospice, a specific form of palliative care, differs primarily in its timing and objective.

Palliative care, a flexible and adaptable form of support, is available to people of any age who need it, not just older adults. The goal is to effectively manage a person's symptoms and can be used in conjunction with other types of treatment. It can begin at diagnosis or not until later in the disease course and can be provided with curative treatment. This care can be provided at home, nursing homes, or outpatient palliative care clinics.

Hospice care also focuses on comfort and quality of life. As a person approaches the end of life, treatment may no longer be beneficial, and their quality of life and that of their family becomes more important. At some point, it may not be possible to cure an illness, so a patient, empowered with control over their treatment, decides they no longer want it. This decision-making power is a key aspect of hospice care. A team of nurses, doctors, social workers, spiritual advisors, and trained volunteers can provide medical, emotional, and spiritual support. Most people receive hospice care at home, but care is offered in hospitals, nursing homes, or free-standing hospice clinics.

One of the most perplexing aspects of hospice care is the six-month requirement. To be eligible for hospice benefits, a physician must predict that, if the condition progresses as expected, the individual is likely to pass away within six months. While no one can accurately predict the exact time of death, Medicare uses six months as a guideline for qualification. However, many individuals may qualify for hospice care for a longer period if their condition remains the same. It's also possible to temporarily leave hospice care and then return if the condition worsens.

Palliative and hospice care are not terms to be feared, but rather to be considered if you or a loved one is dealing with a chronic illness. The support they provide to the patient and their family can be invaluable, enabling everyone to receive the care they need and deserve.