Patient at home with symptoms controlled

A patient will be placed at this level of care if he or she resides at home (or a long-term care facility) and does not have symptoms that are out of control. The needs of the patient determine the number of visits from hospice staff members.

Patient in facility with uncontrolled symptoms

A hospice patient may require inpatient care when his or her symptoms have gotten out of hand and can no longer be managed at home. When these symptoms cannot be controlled on routine home care, then the patient requires extra attention until these symptoms subside. Hospices take aggressive actions to control the symptoms and make the patient comfortable.

Patient at home with uncontrolled symptoms

A patient will be placed at this level of care if he or she resides at home (or a long-term care facility) and does not have symptoms that are out of control. These symptoms could include—but aren’t limited to—severe pain, continuous nausea and vomiting, bleeding, acute respiratory distress, and unbearable restlessness or agitation. The needs of the patient determine the number of visits from hospice staff members.

Patient at facility with symptoms controlled

A patient may be moved to respite care when the caregiver needs a break. Many hospice patients live at home, with their families providing most of the care, sometimes around the clock. Caring for their loved ones can be exhausting and very stressful. The family members and/or caregivers need time to themselves and it’s important that they take that time. Respite care allows a patient to be temporarily placed in a facility with 24-hour care so the family can rest. If the patient is willing and the family requests it, the hospice must provide placement in a facility or a hospice home for the patient. The patient will be transferred to the facility, and according to Medicare regulations, can stay for up to five days before being transferred back home.