Patients & Families
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You choose where you want to be, who you want to be with, and how you want to spend your time.
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Have the conversation
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Once the patient and family see hospice as an option, they should discuss it with their care professionals and other family members.
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Explain what is important to you and ask others to respect your wishes for dignity and comfort.
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Hospice is a natural step in the care continuum. Hospice isn't "giving up". It's quite the opposite.
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Let your family and friends know you are choosing Hospice for individualized care focused on comfort.
Hospice FAQs
How do I know if I qualify? If you have a life-limiting illness and wish to focus on comfort care, ask your attending Physician for a referral to Goldencare Hospice for an assessment. We will let you know if you qualify for Hospice Care.
Some signs it may be time to ask your physician include:
• Loss of function or physical decline
• Increase in hospitalizations
• Multiple medical conditions
• Continuing weight loss
• Dependence in activities of daily living
• Treatment options no longer enhance or prolong quality of life
What to Expect after Calling Us
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We will gather basic information about the patient, illness, where the patient lives and who will be present for our meeting.
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We will always strive to meet with you at a location and time that is comfortable for you.
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You do not need to be ready to sign up for hospice before calling us. Sometimes it helps to just talk and understand your care options first.
Admission Process
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We will ask your Physician for a Hospice referral which identifies the Hospice illness (diagnosis). We will meet with you at the scheduled location and time of your choice.
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A nurse will evaluate the patient's medical Hospice eligibility and help to answer any questions you may have. If the patient meets Hospice criteria, we can begin Hospice care when you are ready.
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Care can begin at the hospital, nursing home, or in your own home. You do not need to transfer or move anywhere for Hospice care.
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All medication, supplies, and medical equipment will be coordinated and paid for by hospice and delivered to your home promptly.
How long Can I remain on Hospice?
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As long as you still maintain a prognosis of 6 months and want comfort care.
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You will be discharged from Hospice if you improve and no longer meet hospice criteria. You can begin again when you meet Hospice criteria.
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A patient can revoke Hospice at any time, for any reason.
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If I need to transfer to a nursing home, Goldencare Hospice and Palliative Care will help you identify nursing homes in your area, assess any costs, and facilitate the transfer. We can remain your Hospice across all care settings.
Do I need to use the Hospice affiliated with my hospital or nursing home?
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No. All patients and families have a choice in selecting the Hospice company they would like to provide their end-of-life care. Hospitals, Nursing Homes and Physicians are mandated to offer choice and honor their patient's wishes.
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Many patients and families like the benefit of choosing an independently owned hospice with a mission for caring for patients in the community.
Because every day matters
Goldencare Hospice & Palliative Care interdisciplinary team understands the complexities existing in an ever-changing healthcare market. We are able to assist you in explaining hospice to families, patients and loved ones. Call us at to arrange family meetings to review goals of care and describe our services to anyone considering hospice.
