Frequently Asked Questions about the Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House
Who pays for patient care in the Hospice House?
Hospice & Community Care, a non-profit, community-based organization, is reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid and most commercial insurances. When a patient is no longer eligible to receive general inpatient care, the patient is responsible for the room and board rate. This rate is established annually by our Board of Directors. The room and board rate is based on the financial resources available to the patient and may be paid on an installment basis.
Services are provided without regard to the patient’s ability to pay. Hospice & Community Care will make every effort to identify a reimbursement source and assist in understanding the eligibility requirements. Our Social Worker will discuss reimbursement with the patient/family at the time of admission and is available to further discuss arrangements as needed.
Additionally, the organization is supported by the United Way and continuously seeks federal, local and private grant opportunities. Donations, memorial gifts and bequests are gratefully accepted to support continued hospice care.
How is the length of stay determined?
Length of stay is determined by the ongoing need for comfort care. Patient status is reviewed frequently by team members and physicians to ensure that services at the Hospice House remain appropriate.
Short term residential care is determined by the patient’s care need and the discharge plan. Residential care is determined when the patient no longer meets the “skilled” criteria for Medicare/Medicaid and other commercial insurance requirements of General Inpatient Care (GIP). The term “skilled” refers to the need for 24 hour registered nursing care. When patient needs can safely be met by a family member or non-medical provider, the need for GIP is no longer available.
The Hospice House has limited beds available for short term residential care. In all cases the Social Worker will assist in evaluation of another plan for ongoing care that best meets the needs of the patient and family. A room and board rate will apply when continued placement at the Hospice House no longer meet the GIP guidelines. Continued residential care options are based on room availability.
Respite Care is also available the patient and caregivers for up to five days during a benefit period.
What are the visiting hours?
Visitors are welcome at any time. However, we request that overnight guests be limited.
Will my physician continue to provide care for me at the Hospice House?
The Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House is directed by the medical staff of Hospice & Community Care. Since we are a specialty care facility, your primary physician may transfer responsibility to our medical staff. We encourage primary physicians to remain involved if requested by the patient and family; however, for patient safety, all orders are directed by our staff physicians.
How often will the doctor visit?
Physician visits are made at least 2 times per week for General Inpatient Care and more frequently if necessary. Physicians may also evaluate patients receiving respite care if needed.
Can we personalize the patient room?
Small personal items are acceptable (such as framed pictures, blankets, pillows, etc.)
Should medications be brought from home?
Please bring medications from home. The nursing staff will review the medications during the admission process. There may be changes in medications based on admission to the Hospice House. Due to regulations, all medications prescribed during the stay are administered to the patient by our nursing staff.
How can I offer comfort my loved one?
The art of presence is important. Studies show that in the final stages of life, the sense of hearing remains intact. Offer encouraging words, reflect on positive memories and say goodbyes. Loving words and gentle touch is comforting and reassuring. Provide a quiet and peaceful setting.
How can we learn more about Hospice & Community Care?
The agency offers an innovative and user-friendly website – www.hospicecommunitycare.org. The site provides educational resources, past publications, current events information and full-screen videos about various services and programs within the organization.
How can we keep out-of-town family members and friends updated on patient care?
Our innovative website www.hospicecommunitycare.org offers CaringBridge – a personalized journaling forum that connects loved ones during difficult times. Families may choose to share personal experiences, while in turn family and friends may send comforting and supportive messages. To view a CaringBridge website, specific and unique site names are required, restricting access to family and friends who have been given that name. Site authors can choose to add additional layers of privacy and security, including requiring all visitors to register before they can view the site, and requiring a password.