The problem with the present system is that often information about end of life options is withheld, for a variety of reasons, until the person is literally days from drawing their final breath. At that moment the person usually is not able to make his/her own decisions and desperate grieving family members are forced to decide what to do.
Hospice is based on the philosophy and belief that people with a serious life threatening illness deserve an informed choice regarding treatment options as their illness progresses.
In my past 18 years of Hospice work I have had literally thousands of letters and satisfaction surveys from hospice family members stating, “We wish we had known about Hospice sooner.” I am pleased to report that this has improved as more and more, people are becoming better educated about the benefits of hospice and as a result, are more comfortable and confident as they reach out to us earlier.
We are finding that the truth about end of life care is that when people are educated about the benefits of hospice before they actually need it, and if they are referred to hospice early enough to enjoy the many services offered, they often live longer, fuller lives than those not receiving hospice.
Sadly, those not receiving hospice services spend much of their last precious year of life between doctor’s office visits, trips to the ER, and hospitalizations where they not only expend their waning energies but may also be exposed to infectious diseases that target the frail and weak.
The truth is that advance care planning puts you in charge of what happens to you in case you become ill. Advanced care planning gives us this “Freedom of choice” opportunity that we all have, regardless of political debate. Our job at hospice is to make this easier for you and your families.
Lola Rathbone, CEO/President
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