There is a lot of confusion between Hospice care and Palliative Care. Understandably so, these two things are typically correlated together through the same niche. Both are having to deal with patients that have terminal illnesses that affect their lives on a day-to-day basis.
A Hospice care service is a form of medical care. This is commonly taken by those with serious illness, often terminal. In this service, a trained team of professionals will be brought up to help the patient manage symptoms and live the best of their remaining lives.
However, most people understand hospice care as simply placing the person in need into a hospice care facility. Yet, people do not consider that there may be an alternative option.
A domiciliary care service enables patients to receive Hospice care services directly in their home.
This end-of-life home care service enables patients to stay in their home, rather than in hospice care. This type of service is available for anyone, at any stage of their illness.
This is where the difference between Palliative Care and Hospice Care are made apparent.
Palliative care services resemble Hospice Care services in some ways.. Whereas Hospice cares for those that are reaching the end of their respective journey. A palliative care service provides support to patients with serious illnesses that may not necessarily lead to an inevitable end.
Like Hospice or End-Of-Life homes, Palliative care can also be provided in Hospitals, nursing homes, specialized clinics, or even at their very own home. This type of care focuses more on providing comfort and assistance while the patient receives treatment for their illness.
Palliative care can also transition into hospice care, if the health professionals believe that the treatments are ineffective and the person is likely to pass away. This will typically be done when the patient has six months or less to live.
Understanding the differences between hospice/end-of-life and palliative care is important for anyone, you or a loved one facing a serious illness in such circumstances. Hospice cares provide specialized support for those nearing the end of their lives. Managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for what time they have left.
Palliative care services are different in a sense that the service it provides may be similar to Hospice Care service. Palliative care is focused on providing care to a patient until recovery with treatment.
With these differences clarified, it is with hope that the distinction between the two services are made clear whenever they're brought up. Whether seeking relief from symptoms, emotional support, or assistance in going through medical decisions, both services and the teams behind them are dedicated to improving their quality of lives.