Frequently Asked Questions

What is hospice?
Hospice is a specialized program that offers help, comfort and support for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families. Hospice is about helping patients live full and meaningful lives by helping them and their families with their medical, emotional and spiritual needs.

How do we get help from hospice?
Anyone can call Home & Hospice Care of Rhode Island for information or to get help. A nurse will answer the call and then consult with the patient’s physician to approve the need for hospice care. We are also available to meet with you and your family to discuss your needs, answer questions and help you understand what to expect.

How do we know when it’s time for hospice?
Hospice is for anyone living with any type of life-limiting illness involving all ages from infants to the elderly who are not seeking aggressive, curative treatment. Hospice is help, support and assistance to patients and families. We realize that it is a difficult decision for many. However, hospice is not a final choice or decision. Patients are free to leave the program at any time.

What type of care is provided?
A team of specialists – physicians, registered nurses, certified nursing assistants, social workers, volunteers, spiritual care coordinators and bereavement counselors – coordinate an individual plan of care with the patient, the family and the patient’s physician to meet the patient and family goals. These professionals visit to ensure the patient’s needs are being met. Medications, supplies and equipment that promote comfort are also provided at no cost to the patient. Hospice staff is on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide care, respond to emergencies, answer questions and offer support.

Where can we receive hospice care?
Hospice care is provided in all settings, including the patient’s home, hospitals, assisted-living facilities, skilled-nursing facilities, group homes and at our inpatient facility, the Philip Hulitar Center, in Providence, RI. If it is necessary to transfer a patient from one setting to another for pain or symptom management or due to family issues, HHCRI will assist with the transfer. 

How is hospice paid for?
Hospice is a program that is paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance programs. However, if a patient is unable to pay for care, Home & Hospice Care of Rhode Island is still committed to provide all the services.

Is it true that all treatment stops if a person is on hospice?
No. Patients on hospice may receive medications, treatments, IVs and can even be hospitalized, depending on the patient’s wishes and the hospice plan of care. If more active treatment is continuing, patients may access services under our Palliative Home Care program.

What is the difference between a palliative care and hospice?

• Palliative care consultations are provided to anyone who is experiencing difficulty with pain and symptoms, most often related to a life-threatening illness. 
• Hospice care is provided to patients who have a life-threatening illness and are expected to live six months or less.
• Palliative care consultations are provided by a registered nurse practitioner.
• Hospice care is provided by a team – nurses, CNAs, MSWs, spiritual care and bereavement specialists and volunteers – and continues until the patient dies.
• Palliative care consultations may be provided to patients who are undergoing active treatment for their illness. Services may be provided only as long as the patient requires pain or symptom management.