Helping Hand Resource Guide

Finding Hospice Care

More than ever before, families facing cancer are expected to make difficult medical decisions related to cancer treatment. This can include end-of-life care, which is one of the hardest decisions to make.

A member of your health care team will usually advise you about hospice care and refer you to an agency. However, if you are concerned about end-of-life care and your doctor has not discussed it, CancerCare encourages you to ask. A hospice can assess your individual needs and can be more effective if contacted early. Hospice care is usually provided in the home, and is covered by Medicare and many private insurance policies under their home health benefits.

Here are some common questions that arise when considering hospice care:

  1. How will I know when hospice or palliative care is appropriate?

    When the goals of treatment change from cure to comfort care, you should be able to discuss the issue openly with your health care team.

  2. If someone enters hospice, doesn’t he or she lose hope?

    People always have hope – it’s just that their hope becomes a desire for comfort and the relief of suffering.

  3. Does the person with cancer need to know that hospice care is being considered?

    It is always best to give people accurate information about their condition. That way they can make meaningful decisions and choices about their wishes.

The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Hospice Foundation of America can refer you to local hospice agencies. CancerCare social workers can answer your questions about hospice, as well as give you and your family emotional support during this difficult time. You may also want to view our services for end-of-life concerns.