HOSPICE ADMISSION PROCESS

At Unified Care Hospice, we strongly believe the patient and family are an integral member of our team. Our staff will support and guide you. The patient and family will be involved in every decision that we make as a team. Our hospice services are built around a family-centered approach to care.

ENROLLMENT PROCESS

We must first receive an order from the patient’s doctor.

If the doctor has recently seen the patient, it’s as simple as having the doctor fax an order to us that states Hospice Evaluation and Admit along with supporting documentation by an MD, multiple MD’s, hospital, etc. that would qualify a patient for Hospice (Certification of Terminal Illness of 6 month or less).

Home MD’s will not see patients for Hospice Assessments. A Nurse can assess a patient for Hospice without an order BUT there must be an established MD willing to write Hospice order and substantiate the Hospice diagnosis (MD office notes, hospital records).

A patient or caregiver can sometimes put in a ‘self-referral’ but will mostly depend on each individual’s situation.

Once the order has been submitted

An RN (Registered Nurse) will look over the patient’s medical history. Upon visiting the patient in home to make an assessment, the nurse will create a care program for the patient.

The care program schedule will vary per patient.

Because of this, we can never give visiting frequencies for any of our clinicians as it is misleading to patients and their families. Some of the personnel that may visit the patient include:

CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) as per the Care Plan created by the Nurse.

The Registered Nurse will visit to assess the patient’s care needs, make adjustments and recommendations needed.

Social Workers and Chaplain are also a part of the Care Team.

See Our Blogs

music and hospice care

The Harmonious Blend of Hospice Care and Music Wellness: A Guide to Enhanced Comfort and Peace

February 06, 20242 min read

Understanding the Role of Music in Hospice Care

Hospice care, a form of compassionate end-of-life care, aims to provide comfort rather than cure. In this journey, the integration of music wellness plays a pivotal role. It's not merely about listening to melodies; it's about tailored musical experiences that profoundly resonate with each individual's emotional and spiritual needs.

hospice care and music

Music Wellness: More Than Just a Playlist

The essence of music wellness in hospice care goes beyond the boundaries of basic entertainment. It's an art form that speaks directly to the soul, offering a sense of peace and tranquility. From classical symphonies to soothing natural sounds, every note and rhythm is carefully selected to align with the patient's preferences, creating a therapeutic soundscape.

Tailoring Music to Individual Needs

Every person's journey is unique, and so is their connection with music. Customizing musical experiences to suit individual tastes and histories is crucial. This customization might involve playing a beloved song from their youth or composing a gentle, rhythmic sound that mirrors their heartbeat, offering a deeply personal touch.

The Science Behind Music and Wellness

It's not just about the emotional impact. Scientific research supports the benefits of music in reducing pain, anxiety, and stress levels. Melodies and rhythms can positively affect brainwave patterns, leading to improved emotional states and a sense of well-being.

Music Therapy: A Skilled Practice

Professional music therapists, armed with a deep understanding of how music impacts the mind and body, play a vital role. They are trained to observe responses, adjust musical selections, and use music as a tool to facilitate communication, memory recall, and emotional expression.

Integrating Music into Daily Hospice Care

Incorporating music into daily care routines isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. It's about finding the right moments, whether it's a morning melody to uplift spirits or a nighttime tune to promote restful sleep. The goal is to make music a natural and comforting part of the hospice experience.

Music: A Bridge for Family Connections

Music also serves as a bridge between patients and their families. It can rekindle shared memories, create new moments, and provide a comforting presence when words are hard to find. It's a powerful tool that brings people together in times of need.

Conclusion: The Symphony of Care and Comfort

The blend of hospice care and music wellness is a symphony of care and comfort. It's about creating moments of joy, peace, and connection in a journey that is often challenging. This harmonious approach underscores the importance of addressing not just the physical but also the emotional and spiritual needs at the end of life, making every moment count.

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