Hospice Myths & Facts for Families in Houston, Texas
Common Hospice Myths and Facts
Hospice care is often misunderstood, which can make families hesitant to seek the support they need. Here are some of the most common myths and provide factual information to help patients and their loved ones make informed decisions. Understanding the truth about hospice can ease concerns, clarify what services are available, and highlight how hospice focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life for both patients and families.
Myth: If we put our loved one in hospice, they will give up and die sooner.
Fact: Hospice care can improve comfort and may help some patients live longer,
Studies have proven that when a patient’s comfort level increases, they feel more hopeful and may live longer. Families can learn more about hospice care services in Houston to understand available support.
Myth: Hospice is a place where someone goes to die.
Fact: Hospice is not a place. It’s a philosophy of care rooted in providing dignity and comfort.
Hospice services are available to patients in their homes or setting of their choice and are designed to meet the patient’s medical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. A 2010 study in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that terminally-ill lung cancer patients receiving palliative care lived an average of three months longer than their counterparts who delayed or didn’t seek palliative treatment.
Myth: Once my loved one is in hospice, we can’t change our minds.
Fact: Hospice is a choice.
Patients can leave, or “revoke their hospice status,” at any time for any reason. Patients can also come back to hospice at any time, as long as they meet hospice eligibility guidelines.
Myth: My loved one won’t receive any treatment in hospice.
Fact: Hospice gives medicines as needed to help with symptoms.
Hospice patients are prescribed medicines that manage the symptoms of their advanced illness and improve quality of life. Hospice doctors try to give just enough medicine to manage symptoms and ease pain.
Myth: Hospice is only available for a limited time.
Fact: There is no limit to the time a patient can be on hospice.
Hospice is for patients who have 6 months or less to live, according to a doctor, and it can be extended when needed. In surveys, family members often say, We wish we had known about hospice sooner. Hospice is for patients who have 6 months or less to live, according to a doctor, and it can be extended when needed. Families in Magnolia or Cypress can reach out to our local teams for personalized support.
Myth: Hospice is expensive.
Fact: Most hospice patients do not have any out-of-pocket expenses.
Medicare Part A covers up to 100% of the cost of hospice care related to a hospice-eligible patient’s illness, with no deductible or copayment. Medicaid provides hospice coverage, but it varies by state. Private or employer-provided health coverage can vary. Check with your insurance provider for details about hospice eligibility, coverage, and out-of-pocket expenses.Hospice also provides home medical equipment and supplies related to the cause of the illness. This includes shower chairs, oxygen tanks, hospital beds, toileting supplies, and more.
Patients with a life-limiting illness and a prognosis of six months or less may qualify, as determined by a physician. Hospice focuses on comfort care rather than curative treatment.
Most hospice patients have no out-of-pocket costs. Medicare, Medicaid, and many private insurance plans cover all hospice-related services, medications, and equipment.
Yes. Hospice services are available in your home, assisted living, or skilled nursing facility. Care is tailored to the patient’s needs and setting.
Absolutely. Hospice is voluntary. Patients can revoke or restart services at any time if they meet eligibility requirements.
Hospice offers nursing, CNA support, social work, spiritual care, medications, equipment, and 24/7 on-call assistance, as well as bereavement support for families.
Understanding the facts about hospice care can help your family make informed decisions and ensure your loved one receives compassionate, personalized support. If you have questions about hospice care in Houston, TX, contact Sunset Hospice at 281-290-7600 or request a consultation to discuss a care plan tailored to your family’s needs.