Patients that are admitted to hospice care may receive services anywhere from a few days to several years. Throughout receiving care, the hospice patient may be discharged for various reasons including symptom improvements, changes in the patient's goals of care, and more. It is important for patients and their loved ones to understand their rights and the implications of meeting hospice criteria when deciding to be admitted to hospice care or not.
Common reasons for hospice patients to be discharged prior to completing their life may include, but is not limited to:
A Patient's Health May Improve While on Hospice Services
In many cases, a patient elects to receive hospice care, then throughout the patient's care, their symptoms may begin to improve. The patient would then be reevaluated and potentially discharged if the hospice physician determines that the patient is no longer terminally ill and does not meet the 6 months or less requirement. If the patient is discharged due to their health improving, Noble Hospice will admit this patient to the Palliative Care program, providing them with care management support and resources they may need to achieve their newly defined care goals.
A Patient May Choose to Revoke Services at Any Time While on Hospice Services
At any given time, a patient may choose to discharge themselves from hospice services. Many patients make this decision to receive aggressive treatment such as life prolonging surgeries or to take medications that are not suitable for hospice patients. The patient may also choose to revoke for any reason they deem necessary to terminate their hospice services. This action is referred to as a "revocation". Revocations are not held against the patient, but they are documented by the patient's insurance provider for future reference if the patient decides to be readmitted to hospice services.
The Hospice Provider May Discharge the Patient Under Various Circumstances
There are certain situations that may require the hospice provider to discharge the patient prior to completing their life, including:
The patient moves to a new location that is outside of the hospice providers service area
If the hospice provider determines that the patients behavior or living situation has become a safety issue for staff
If the patient's personal situation prevents the hospice team from providing adequate care
Understanding the nuances of discharges from hospice care is crucial for patients and their families as they navigate there journey. Whether it is due to health improvements, personal choices, or logistical challenges, being informed about the reasons and processes involved helps ensure that patients continue to receive the most appropriate care for their evolving needs. At Noble Hospice, our commitment extends beyond the immediate care of our patients; we also strive to provide support and resources through our Palliative Care program, ensuring a seamless transition if discharge becomes necessary. Ultimately, our goal is to respect and honor each patient's unique circumstances and care preferences, helping them achieve their best possible quality of life.
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