What is the Next Step after Palliative Care?

When the focus of care shifts entirely toward dignity, relief, and support for the whole family, hospice care typically serves as the next step after palliative care. While palliative care can be provided alongside curative treatments at any stage of a serious illness, the transition to hospice occurs when those curative treatments stop.

Key aspects of this transition include:

• Physician Certification: To begin hospice, a physician must certify a terminal illness with a life expectancy of six months or less.
• Focus of Care: The team-based approach shifts to prioritize comfort, pain management, and quality of life for the patient while providing emotional and spiritual support for the entire family.
• Support Services: We provide a comprehensive range of services during this stage, including Nursing Care, Pain Management, Psycho-Social Services, and specialized therapies like Massage and Music Therapy.
• Bereavement Support: Unlike standard palliative care, hospice includes dedicated bereavement services for families to help navigate the emotional journey following a loss.

Eligibility for hospice must be determined by a physician, and insurance requirements or Medicare documentation may apply. Because every situation is unique, we encourage families to consult a healthcare professional for clinical decisions. Outcomes may vary as care is always individualized to the patient’s needs.

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