Deciding which hospice to turn to for end-of-life care is an enormous decision. Families have choices when it comes to where to seek the care, support and comfort so important at this fragile time of life.
Many people are surprised to learn that not all hospices are one group, or are even alike in what they offer. There are many different providers -- including a growing number in the Dayton area. But while all licensed hospice programs are required to provide certain services, the range of support services can differ significantly.
Being aware of what each hospice offers is the key to selecting the right one. Recently a consumer advocacy publication listed key factors to look for when selecting a hospice program. They include making sure hospice-certified doctors and nurses are on staff and available 24 hours a day. Also important - that the program includes an inpatient facility in case care can no longer be managed at home.
One of the key factors the publication recommends is to select a hospice that is not-for-profit.
"Knowing that a hospice is nonprofit does tell you more about their focus," points out Ruth Thomson, D.O., chief medical officer for Ohio's Hospice of Dayton, which has a highly regarded inpatient facility on Wilmington Avenue. "As not-for profit, we devote ourselves to supporting families in every remaining moment they have together. And we don't do that for profit."
A big advantage to choosing a nonprofit hospice is that funds are channeled back to patient care.
"For instance, Ohio's Hospice of Dayton has occupational therapists, which are not typical of hospice. They help our patients handle lifestyle tasks, and stay independent for as long as possible," Dr. Thomson says.
Ohio's Hospice of Dayton also offers respiratory therapy, especially important to patients with COPD or lung cancer who have shortness of breath or pain in breathing. Massage therapy is also offered, which adds to pain relief and comfort.
Older is better
The consumer publication also recommends that the hospice a family selects should be at least 20 years old.
In 1978, Dayton became one of the first communities in the country to offer hospice care. Nurse and Dayton resident Betty Schmoll lead the effort to establish Hospice of Dayton, pulling together support from all area hospitals and dedicated volunteers. It remains a community-based, nonprofit care provider.
Recently, Ohio's Hospice was formed, creating a statewide partnership of mission-driven, not-for-profit hospices committed to a shared vision of strengthening and preserving community-based hospices. Ohio's Hospice of Dayton is part of that affiliation.
"Experience does matter," says Dr. Thomson. "Hospice care has evolved substantially over the years. We've not only kept pace with technical and regulatory changes but also have broadened the way we can serve the needs of the patient and family. Thirty-eight years of experience makes a significant difference and can only be found at Ohio's Hospice of Dayton."
