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When choosing a hospice program there are many things to think about. In this section of our website our hope is to help you with any concerns. If you would like more information about Hospice of Laurens County or have a concern that is not addressed on our website, we would be glad to meet with you. Call our office (864) 833-6287 to speak with one of our staff members.
Most Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Are all Hospice programs the same?
A: While all Medicare certified hospices must offer the same core services: physician, nursing, social work, hospice aides, spiritual support and volunteer services, the way they provide them and how often they provide them vary dramatically
Hospice of Laurens County is the only not-for-profit hospice based in Laurens County.
Hospice of Laurens County has outstanding differences as demonstrated by a strong and vibrant Volunteer Program that offers services in all corners of our county with local individuals. Our chaplains are available to provide any degree of support the family requests. Our Bereavement Program is a full service program allowing our support staff to cater to individual levels of needs. Our Bereavement Program servcies are available to anyone in need of support during the grieving process, not just Hospice of Laurens County patients/families.
In addition, Hospice of Laurens County has several differentiating services to better serve our local community:
- Transitions Program - for those who do not meet eligibility for the regular hospice program, but need some support.
- Watchman Program - volunteers who belong to local churches who "watch out" for church members who qualify for Hospice services to assist in timely referrals for potential hospice patients and families
- Jaime's Tree House - a children's bereavement camp to assist local children in the expression of their grief, whether the loss is from a hospice family experience or have suffered a significant loss outside of the hospice organization.
Q: Who is eligible for Hospice care?
A: Hospice is available for any individual that has been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and is no longer seeking curative treatment. This can include cancer as well as a non-cancer diagnosis. The top 5 non-cancer diagnosis are: end-stage heart disease, dementia, failure to thrive, lung disease, and end-stage kidney disease.
Q: How do I sign up or assist a loved one sign up?
A: A physician, family member, friend, professional, or the patient can make a referral to Hospice. Under Medicare criteria, a person seeking admission to hospice services must be diagnosed by a physician as terminally ill with a life expectancy of six months or less if the illness runs its normal course. The patient signs a statement electing hospice care and indicating that he or she understands treatment will be palliative (comfort), not curative. Should a patient improve under hospice care or decide to no longer receive our services, the patient can withdraw from hospice at anytime. Ask for the hospice of your choice, it is your right to choose who cares for you and your loved one.
“You matter because you are you. You matter to the last moment of your life, and we will do all we can, not only to help you die peacefully, but also to live until you die.”
- Dr. Cicely Saunders, Founder of modern-day hospices