Core IM | Internal Medicine Podcast #162 Hospice 102: Practical Tips and Nuances
Oct 16, 2024
Dr. Harry Han, a palliative care expert, dives into the nuances of hospice care, discussing the practicalities clinicians face when transitioning patients to hospice services. He addresses critical issues like managing medications, navigating financial concerns, and the surprising reasons patients may return to the hospital while on hospice. The conversation also highlights the emotional challenges of opting for hospice and encourages a shift in perception to focus on celebrating life, rather than just the end.
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Hospice Referral Process
- Determine the patient's care needs and the appropriate hospice setting.
- Consult the care coordination team to refer the patient to a local hospice agency.
Hospice Cost Challenges
- Families sometimes hire private aides or use extended care facilities for routine hospice care.
- Medicare's hospice benefit does not cover room and board in these facilities, often leaving patients with out-of-pocket costs.
Medication Management in Hospice
- When considering medications for hospice patients, group them into four categories: normally covered, not covered, depends, and unrelated.
- Discuss coverage specifics with the hospice agency, as interpretations of Medicare guidelines vary.