My Mom's AL recently partnered with an outside hospice provider I am managing all her care even though they were pushing me to sign her up. She's very independent and navigates well. She is 95 with CHF they told me "that its just a matter of time before she declines" which I didn't appreciate. I have no problem bringing in hospice when I think its time. However, by my interactions with their provider I don't think I would use them. Do I have the choice to bring in any organization of my own choosing?
When on Hospice you usually don't go to doctors or to the hospital. Sounds to me that Mom is doing well on her own. Maybe the AL likes having an aid that Medicare pays for.
Unless you have signed a paper saying you understand by living in their facility you also agree to use their Hospice, no you don't have to use theirs. Medicare pays for Hospice. The resident or family has to OK Hospice services, not the facility. You can bring anyone in you want. The AL is Moms residence. Hospice does not have anything to do with the AL staff.
For Profit
Not for Profit.
It is very possible that the one your Mom's AL partnered with is ...For Profit. This may be a financial partnership where both profit. Keep in mind this is speculation on my part.
You have every right to have whatever Hospice you want.
You can research all the Hospice that are in your area. You can "interview" as many as you want. You can look at reviews and make an informed decision just as you would when choosing any health care provider.
Personal note here...
There is no such thing as "too soon" to go on Hospice. My Husband was on Hospice for just over 3 years. As long as there is a "Documented, continued decline" a person can remain on Hospice.
What I can tell you is your Mom will get more attention, more contact, better care being on Hospice. All supplies will be provided, medications, equipment. She/you will have the ability to request music therapy, some types of massage therapy, pet therapy, a Volunteer can come in and visit with her, she and you will have a Social worker, Chaplain, a Nurse will visit her once a week, a CNA will come in to help bathe and dress her a few times a week. (This will probably replace the bath done by the facility if they do that now)
the Hospice I chose was a Not for Profit. They are well funded and they will turn no one away.
I can not tell you how pleased I was, kind, caring people. If I needed something in the way of supplies or equipment (within reason) usually it could be ordered and delivered within 24 hours.
So do your research and find the best in your area and get Mom on Hospice as soon as you can I do not think you will regret the decision. And best thing is if you decide that it is not right you can withdraw from Hospice and call them at a later time.
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