Hospice is a facility, which provides care for the sick, especially the terminally ill. It combines compassion, comfort and dignified care for those with life-limiting illnesses. It’s a great resource during an emotionally and physically challenging time.
Over the last year, your BBB recorded more than 440 inquiries locally about hospices. Nationally, there were more than 22,000 inquiries filed with your BBB about this industry.
Your Better Business Bureau offers tips for finding reliable hospice care:
• Begin your search as early as possible. This will allow you time to make a decision and get your loved one the proper care.
• Get recommendations from friends and family. If they’re pleased with their hospice care provider, most likely you’ll be too.
• Find out where the hospice provider performs care, such as at home, at a nursing home, assisted living facility, or standalone facility, etc.
• Make sure the facility is clean.
• Inquire about who provides care at the facility and how your personal physician will work with the facility.
• Ask if hospice nurses are required to be certified in hospice care. Ask about the patient to caregiver ratio, as well as how staff is selected and screened.
• Ask about what kind of support is available to the family. Also, consider location from home and work.
• Inquire about costs and if there is assistance available. Are services covered by insurance, Medicare or Medicaid.
• Visit several facilities. This will allow you to see how the staff interacts with patients.
• Make sure the facility is licensed, carries appropriate insurance and meets local and state requirements.
Remember, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your loved ones safety, health and well-being is most important. Also, once your loved one is situated, call and visit the facility to see how your loved one is doing and establish a good working relationship with staff.
You can always contact your BBB for a list of BBB Accredited hospices and reviews on ones you’re considering. Visit www.bbb.org/dayton or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
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