What Is Hospice Care?
Hospice care is a specialized approach to care for individuals facing a life-limiting illness. It focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life when curative treatment is no longer the goal. Rather than trying to cure the illness, hospice care helps manage symptoms, reduce pain, and provide emotional, spiritual, and practical support for both the patient and their loved ones. Care is delivered wherever the patient feels most at home—whether in a private residence, nursing facility, or assisted living community.
Supporting Quality of Life with Comfort-Focused Care
At 1st Care Palliative and Hospice, we provide thoughtful care for individuals and families during this sensitive time, always respecting personal values, preferences, and goals.
Our team works alongside each patient’s physician to develop a plan that helps manage symptoms and supports emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, at home or wherever care is needed. We help create space for meaningful moments, connection, and peace of mind every day.
Choosing Hospice Care
We understand that each person’s experience is different. Our approach adapts to meet individual goals and support each day with intention and care.
Patients and families rely on us for:
- Relief from symptoms, pain, and stress
- Individualized care in a setting that feels most like home
- Guidance and education through each phase of care
- Resources that promote comfort, peace, and understanding
Our Approach
We focus on what matters most: making each day as meaningful as possible. Our hospice care includes:
- A care plan built around patient needs, preferences, and goals
- Pain and symptom management
- Support and education for patients and families
- Coordination with physicians and other care providers
- Enrichment services to encourage well-being and connection
Goals of Care
Hospice care honors each person’s unique path. Our team adapts care based on individual wishes and priorities to support comfort, dignity, and peace.
Our goals include:
- Enhancing daily comfort and emotional well-being
- Supporting dignity and respectful caregiving
- Helping families feel informed, involved, and supported
Each care plan is shaped by personal goals and adjusted as needs evolve, so patients and families feel supported throughout the entire experience.
Your Hospice Care Team
Our care team works together to meet each individual’s full range of needs. Your team may include:
- Attending Physician
- Registered Nurse Case Manager
- Certified Nursing Assistant
- Licensed Social Worker
- Chaplain
- Volunteer Companions
- Music Therapist (when available)
Hospice vs. Palliative Care
Hospice care is intended for patients with a prognosis of six months or less. Palliative care supports those with serious illness at any stage and may be received alongside curative treatment. Our team provides both services and can help families understand which care best fits their current needs.
Signs It May Be Time for Hospice Care
Our Hospice Care Services
Personalized Care Plans
We create individualized care plans tailored to meet the unique needs, goals, and wishes of each patient and family.
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Nutrition & Dietary Support
We provide expert guidance on nutrition and dietary needs to promote comfort, strength, and well-being.
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24/7 Nursing Support
We offer round-the-clock nursing care, ensuring support, comfort, and peace of mind at any hour.
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Grief Support
We offer compassionate grief support to help families and loved ones navigate loss with care and understanding.
Learn MoreFinding the Right Hospice Provider
Selecting a provider is a personal decision. At 1st Care Palliative and Hospice, we are honored to serve individuals and families with respect, consistency, and a thoughtful approach to end-of-life care. Wherever you call home, we are ready to help support comfort, dignity, and peace.
At 1st Care Palliative and Hospice, we are honored to serve with care that meets each person where they are—at home or wherever care is needed—with comfort, dignity, and understanding.
Frequently Asked Hospice Questions
What is the goal of hospice care?
Your hospice journey is deeply personal, and at 1st Care Palliative and Hospice, we honor your individual goals of care. Our holistic approach is thoughtfully adapted to meet your needs, whether we provide care in your home or wherever you call home.
- Enhance, enrich, and improve daily quality of life.
- Maintain comfort, dignity, and peace for each patient.
- Offer meaningful support and guidance to both patients and their families.
When should I ask about hospice care?
You should consider asking about hospice care when you or a loved one is facing a serious illness with a life expectancy of six months or less, and the focus shifts from curing the illness to providing comfort and quality of life. If there are frequent hospitalizations, increasing pain, or a decline in daily functioning, it’s a good time to have the conversation. Our team is here to help guide you through this decision.
Who pays for hospice care?
Hospice care is typically covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. These benefits usually cover services such as nursing care, medications related to the hospice diagnosis, medical equipment, and support from the care team, with little or no out-of-pocket cost to the patient or family. Our team can help explain your benefits and assist with any paperwork.
Does hospice care mean giving up all medical treatment?
No. Hospice care means shifting the focus from curing an illness to managing symptoms, controlling pain, and improving comfort and quality of life. Patients continue to receive medical care that supports these goals, along with emotional, spiritual, and practical support.
Will I be able to keep my current doctor?
Yes. You can request that your current primary care physician or specialist continue as your attending physician while you are receiving hospice care. We believe in teamwork and collaboration to honor your wishes and ensure you receive consistent, personalized care.
We’ll Walk with You
Let us walk this journey with you. Contact our team for guidance, comfort, and peace of mind.