Hospice
is a type of care and a philosophy of care that focuses on the
palliation of a terminally ill patient's symptoms. These
symptoms can be physical, emotional, spiritual or social in
nature. The concept of hospice has been evolving since the 11th
century. Then, and for centuries thereafter, hospices were
places of hospitality for the sick, wounded, or dying, as well
as those for travelers and pilgrims. The modern concept of
hospice includes palliative care for the incurably ill given in
such institutions as hospitals or nursing homes, but also care
provided to those who would rather die in their own homes.
Although the movement has met with some resistance, hospice has
rapidly expanded through the United Kingdom, the United States
and elsewhere.
Hospice in
the United States has grown from a volunteer-led
movement to improve care for people dying alone,
isolated, or in hospitals, to a significant part of the
health care system. In 2008, 1.45 million individuals
and their families received hospice care. Hospice is the
only Medicare benefit that includes pharmaceuticals,
medical equipment, twenty-four hour/seven day a week
access to care and support for loved ones following a
death. Hospice care is also covered by Medicaid and most
private insurance plans. Most hospice care is delivered
at home. Hospice care is also available to people in
home-like hospice residences, nursing homes, assisted
living facilities, veterans' facilities, hospitals, and
prisons.
