Frequently Asked Questions
* When is the right time to ask about hospice?
Now is the best time to learn more about hospice and ask questions about what to expect from hospice services. Although end-of-life care may be difficult to discuss, it is best for family members to share their wishes long before it becomes a concern. This can greatly reduce stress when the time for hospice is needed. by having these discussions in advance, patients can make an educated decision that includes the advice and input of family members and loved ones. For more information, please click on our brochure, What Is Hospice?
* How are patients referred to Hospice of the Chesapeake?
Anyone can refer a patient to Hospice of the Chesapeake, just call 1.800.745.6132. Many times friends or families will call because they need help. We take the initiative from there and will have the necessary conversations with other family members, the prospective patient and the physician in order to get services started.
* What kind of care is provided once a patient is admitted to hospice?
A team of physicians, nurses, social workers, certified nursing assistants, counselors, chaplains and specially trained volunteers work with the patient and their caregiver to coordinate a plan of care. All visits are based on the patient and family needs as described in the care plan and the condition of the patient during the course of illness. the frequency of volunteers and spiritual care is often dependent upon the family's request. Hospice of the Chesapeake provides comforting and compassionate care that includes:
- Managing the patient's pain and symptoms
- Assisting the patient with the emotional, psychosocial and spiritual aspects of dying
- Providing needed drugs, medical supplies and equipment
- Coaching the family on how to care for the patient
- Providing bereavement care and counseling to surviving family and friends
* How does Hospice of the Chesapeake work to keep the patient comfortable?
Many patients may have pain and other serious symptoms as their illness progresses. the hospice team receives special training to care for all types of physical and emotional symptoms that cause pain, discomfort and distress. Our comforting and compassionate staff works with the patient's physician to make sure that medication, therapies and procedures are designed to achieve the goals outlined in the patient's care plan. The care plan is reviewed frequently to make sure any changes and new goals are in the plan.
* Do you treat more than just physical pain?
Each of us is more than a physical being and care must be holistic - addressing the body, mind, spirit and social dimensions. This is why Hospice of the Chesapeake's approach to healthcare includes physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, social workers, spiritual care professionals, certified nursing assistants and volunteers.
* Where are hospice services provided?
We care for patients wherever they reside - private homes, nursing homes, assisted living facilities or hospitals.
* How can Hospice of the Chesapeake help family members?
We care for both patients and family members. One of the wonderful things about hospice care is that we treat the patient and family as a unit. We focus on meeting the patient's goals, while making sure the family members are receiving the support they need - spiritually and psychosocially. We are here to help. We support the patient, the caregiver and the family. We do not want anyone to walk their journey alone.
* How are hospice services paid for?
Our services are covered by most typical methods of payment. Hospice services are covered through Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance.
* What if I can't afford to pay for services?
We provide all patients with care regardless of their payment source. Hospice of the Chesapeake is a community based not for profit organization. We do accept Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance. All persons qualified to receive hospice services can be assured that they will receive the very best care possible regardless of their inability to pay.
* What are the hospice facilities?
The Creston G. & Betty Jane Tate Foundation Chesapeake Hospice House in Linthicum and the John & Arloine Mandrin Inpatient Care Center in Harwood provide a unique setting for individuals facing life-limiting illnesses while living alone, who may have no one able to care for them or who may need complex or concentrated care.
* Does Hospice of the Chesapeake provide bereavement services?
Yes, The Life Center at Hospice of the Chesapeake offers a variety of support services to individuals in places of transition resulting from the death of a loved one, an unexpected diagnosis or an unanticipated event. Operating from a holistic model we believe that change impacts individuals physically, emotionally, spiritually and socially. Our services are designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients and their families.
* What types of programs and support groups does The Life Center provide?
The Life Center provides the following support programs:
- Individual, couples, family and group counseling to hospice patients and family members as well as members of the community;
- Individual counseling and group support for traumatic events;
- Educational seminars on spirituality, grief and loss and resiliency;
- Specialized counseling and support for children and teens through Stepping Stones, Camp Nabi and Phoenix Rising.
* How can I contact The Life Center?
To learn more about the programs and support services provided by The Life Center, please call 410.987.2129 or visit www.hospicechesapeake.org.
* How long has Hospice of the Chesapeake been in our community?
Hospice of the Chesapeake has been providing comforting and compassionate care for over 31 years. We are the premier hospice care provider in Anne Arundel and Prince George's Counties due in large part to our consistent focus on providing the highest quality care possible to patients and families.
* How can the community help?
Every gift matters. Hospice of the Chesapeake is a non-profit organization and receives revenue from Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance. However, we do not receive enough from these sources to meet the needs of the community. Therefore, fund raising and gift giving are needed. These gifts enable us to take care of all patients regardless of their payment source and to ensure Hospice of the Chesapeake has the capacity to care for you and your loved ones in the future. If you are interested in giving to Hospice of the Chesapeake:
- You can simply call the Philanthropy department at 410.987.2003
- Click here to make an online credit card gift by using our secure online donation form
- Gifts can also be mailed to us at: Hospice of the Chesapeake ~ Philanthropy Department, 445 Defense Hwy, Annapolis, MD 21401
* How can I contact Hospice of the Chesapeake for more information?
Contact us at 410.987.2003 or 800.745.6132 or visit us online at www.hospicechesapeake.org
