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Mesothelioma Hospice

Pleural mesothelioma patients have the option of electing hospice care. Although commonly associated with end-of-life treatment, hospice programs offer services that address the physical, medical, emotional and psychological needs unique to terminally ill patients, their caregivers and loved ones. One common misunderstanding about hospice care is that it isolates the patient in an unsympathetic facility. The complete opposite is true. Services may be provided through hospital settings or nursing homes, but most frequently, they can be conducted in the comfort of the patient’s own home.

Hospice care is not intended as curative treatment. Instead, hospice offers palliative treatments intended to alleviate painful symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life. Typical pleural mesothelioma hospice services include medical care, psychological counseling and spiritual support from a team of medical professionals and volunteers. The general intent of hospice care is to provide patients and their families with a comforting, secure support system.

Will Insurance Cover Hospice Care?

Most mesothelioma hospice programs are covered by medical insurance, Medicare, the Veterans Administration or Medicaid. Many insurance companies are able to cover hospice care because it tends to be cheaper than inpatient programs at a hospital, although coverage may vary by state and insurance carrier. Contacting the insurer directly is the best way to clarify any questions about coverage.

Where Can I Learn More About Hospice Programs in My Area?

Most medical professionals, especially oncologists, can provide extended information about hospice care options in your area. Hospitals, case managers and social workers may also be able to provide additional information about local programs that accept terminal pleural mesothelioma patients.

Qualifications for Hospice Care

Each hospice program has its own set of guidelines for admission and generally considers each patient on a case by case basis. Typically, admitted patients have six months of less left to live.

Services Provided by Hospice Care

The hospice model offers resources for patients, their caregivers and loved ones. Naturally, the patient has access to medical care, but social, psychological and spiritual support services are extended to all involved. Families may also have access to case management services to help arrange meals and transportation when necessitated by the situation.

Mesothelioma hospice services generally assign their patients a personal care attendant to allow the patient’s own caregivers to carry out their own needs. Families are also encouraged to utilize other support services such as grief counseling and support groups. These services are continually extended even after a pleural mesothelioma patient passes away to comfort all involved parties throughout the emotional process.

Sources

1. http://www.hospicenet.org/
2. http://www.hospicefoundation.org/
3. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MBC/content/MBC_2_3x_Hospice_Care.asp?sitearea=MBC