Frequently Asked Questions

Hospice care and palliative care both focus on providing comfort and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, but they are distinct in their goals and timing.

Hospice care is specifically designed for individuals who are nearing the end of life, typically when curative treatments are no longer an option and the focus shifts entirely to comfort care. Hospice care is intended for patients who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness and are expected to have six months or less to live.

The primary goal of hospice care is to ensure that the patient’s final days are spent with dignity, free from pain, and surrounded by loved ones. It involves a holistic approach, addressing the physical, emotional, spiritual, and social needs of both the patient and their family.

Hospice care is usually provided in the patient’s home, a hospice facility, or a nursing home, depending on the patient’s needs and preferences.

Palliative care, on the other hand, is available at any stage of a serious illness and can be provided alongside curative treatments. It is focused on relieving symptoms, managing pain, and improving the overall quality of life for patients, regardless of their prognosis.

Palliative care can be appropriate for individuals with chronic conditions or life-limiting illnesses who are still pursuing treatments aimed at prolonging life. Unlike hospice care, palliative care is not limited to those at the end of life; it can be provided from the time of diagnosis and throughout the course of the illness.

While both hospice and palliative care prioritize comfort and quality of life, hospice care is specifically for those nearing the end of life, whereas palliative care can be provided at any time during a serious illness, even while curative treatments are ongoing.

Eligibility for hospice care is generally determined by a combination of medical guidelines and individual needs. The primary criteria for hospice care eligibility include:

• Terminal Illness Diagnosis
  Hospice care is intended for individuals who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness, meaning the illness is no longer responding to curative treatments and the patient is expected to have six months or less to live if the illness runs its typical course. Common conditions that may lead to hospice care include advanced cancer, heart disease, lung disease, kidney failure, Alzheimer's disease, and other progressive illnesses.
  
  
• Prognosis of Six Months or Less
  A physician must certify that the patient has a life expectancy of six months or less if the disease follows its normal progression. This prognosis is based on the physician's clinical judgment and experience with similar cases. It's important to note that hospice care is not limited to exactly six months; some patients may live longer and continue to receive hospice care as long as they remain eligible.
  
  
• Focus on Comfort Rather Than Cure
  Hospice care is appropriate when the patient and their family decide to shift the focus of care from curative treatments to comfort care. The goal of hospice is to provide relief from pain and symptoms, enhance the quality of life, and support the patient emotionally and spiritually, rather than attempting to cure the underlying disease.
  
  
• Patient and Family Agreement
  Both the patient and their family must agree to hospice care, understanding that it is designed to provide comfort and support rather than pursue aggressive treatments aimed at curing the illness. The decision to enter hospice care is a significant one and often involves discussions with healthcare providers, family members, and the hospice care team.

It's important to note that eligibility for hospice care can be reassessed over time. If a patient's condition stabilizes or improves, they may no longer meet the criteria for hospice and could transition back to other forms of care. Conversely, if the patient's condition declines, they can continue receiving hospice care as long as they meet the eligibility requirements.

Enrolling a loved one in hospice care at Fremont Regional Hospice is a straightforward process designed to provide support and guidance every step of the way. Here's how you can begin:

• Consult with the Physician
  The first step is to have a conversation with your loved one's primary care physician or specialist about hospice care. The doctor will evaluate your loved one's condition and determine if hospice care is appropriate, based on their diagnosis and prognosis.
  
  
• Contact Fremont Regional Hospice
  Once hospice care has been recommended, you can reach out to Fremont Regional Hospice directly. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and guide you through the next steps. You can contact us by phone, email, or in person.
  
  
• Schedule an Initial Assessment
  After your initial contact, our hospice team will arrange an assessment with your loved one. During this assessment, we'll discuss your loved one's medical history, current condition, and specific needs. This helps us create a personalized care plan that focuses on comfort, symptom management, and emotional support.
  
  
• Complete Necessary Paperwork
  As part of the enrollment process, you will need to complete some paperwork, including consent forms and insurance information. Our team will assist you with this process, ensuring that everything is handled smoothly and efficiently.
  
  
• Begin Care
  Once the assessment is complete and the paperwork is in order, hospice care will begin. Our team of skilled professionals, including nurses, certified nursing assistants, chaplains, and social workers, will start providing the care and support your loved one needs. We will also offer ongoing support and education to you and your family throughout this journey.

Starting hospice care can be an emotional decision, but at Fremont Regional Hospice, we are here to provide compassionate guidance and ensure that your loved one receives the best possible care during this important time.

Fremont Regional Hospice proudly serves the communities of Fremont, Custer, Park, Teller, and Western Pueblo counties in Colorado. As the only independent, non-profit hospice in these regions, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to patients and families throughout these areas.

Our team is deeply rooted in these communities, offering services that reflect the values and needs of the people we serve. Whether you are in a rural area or a more populated region within these counties, we are here to support you with the highest level of hospice care.

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) medallion is a small, wearable identification piece, typically in the form of a bracelet or necklace, that indicates a person's wishes not to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event that their heart stops beating or they stop breathing. This medallion serves as a clear and immediate communication tool for first responders and healthcare providers, ensuring that your end-of-life wishes are respected in an emergency situation.

Here's how DNR medallions work:

• Obtaining the Medallion
  The medallion is issued after a patient and their physician have discussed and agreed upon a DNR order. The order is a formal medical directive that reflects the patient's decision to forgo CPR and other life-saving measures. Once this order is in place, the medallion can be obtained through authorized organizations that produce them.
  
  
• Wearing the Medallion
  The medallion should be worn at all times, especially in situations where emergency medical services might be called, such as at home, in a care facility, or while out in the community. It is designed to be easily recognizable, helping to prevent unnecessary resuscitation attempts in accordance with the patient's wishes.
  
  
• Recognition by Medical Personnel
  When first responders or healthcare providers see the DNR medallion, they are alerted to the patient's DNR status. This prompts them to refrain from initiating CPR or other resuscitative measures, adhering to the patient's end-of-life choices as outlined in the DNR order.
  
  
• Legal Validity
  The DNR medallion is legally recognized and serves as a portable, durable representation of the DNR order. It helps ensure that the patient's wishes are honored in various settings, whether at home, in a hospital, or in public.

DNR medallions are an important tool for individuals who have made the decision to decline resuscitation efforts. They provide peace of mind by clearly communicating these wishes to medical personnel in critical moments, ensuring that the individual's end-of-life preferences are respected.

Fremont Regional Hospice is committed to supporting not only our patients but also their families and caregivers, recognizing the significant role they play during this challenging time. We offer a comprehensive range of services designed to provide emotional, spiritual, and practical support to those caring for a loved one in hospice:

• Emotional and Spiritual Support
  Our team includes social workers and chaplains who are available to offer emotional and spiritual support to families and caregivers. Whether you need someone to talk to, guidance in navigating complex emotions, or spiritual counseling, we are here to provide comfort and reassurance throughout your loved one's hospice journey.
  
  
• Caregiver Training and Education
  Caring for a loved one with a life-limiting illness can be overwhelming, especially if you are unsure how to handle certain aspects of care. Fremont Regional Hospice provides comprehensive caregiver training to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need. Our team will teach you how to manage symptoms, provide proper care, and address your loved one's needs effectively, helping you feel more confident and prepared.
  
  
• Respite Care
  We understand that caregiving can be physically and emotionally demanding. To support you, we offer respite care services, allowing you to take a much-needed break while ensuring your loved one continues to receive quality care. This service provides temporary relief, giving you time to rest, recharge, and attend to your own well-being.
  
  
• Grief Support and Bereavement Services
  The support we provide to families doesn't end with the passing of a loved one. Fremont Regional Hospice offers grief support and bereavement services to help families navigate the difficult process of loss. We provide one-on-one counseling, support groups, and other resources to help you cope with grief and begin the healing process.

These services are designed to ensure that families and caregivers are not alone during this challenging time. Fremont Regional Hospice is here to provide the guidance, support, and resources you need to care for your loved one and yourself with compassion and dignity.

Yes, Fremont Regional Hospice is proud to offer specialized care for veterans as part of our commitment to serving those who have served our country. Recognizing that veterans often have unique needs and experiences, we provide tailored end-of-life care that honors their service and addresses the specific challenges they may face.

As a national partner of the "We Honor Veterans" program, a pioneering initiative developed by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs, Fremont Regional Hospice is uniquely equipped to care for veterans.

Our staff is trained to understand the physical, emotional, and psychological needs that may be specific to veterans, such as managing service-related conditions, addressing PTSD, and providing support for emotional and spiritual healing.

We also ensure that veterans receive the benefits and recognition they deserve, including assistance with navigating VA benefits, coordinating with military service organizations, and honoring their service through special ceremonies or acknowledgments.

In summary, Fremont Regional Hospice is dedicated to providing compassionate, respectful, and personalized care for veterans, ensuring that they receive the highest quality of care at the end of life, while also honoring their service and sacrifices.

Fremont Regional Hospice is dedicated to providing holistic care that addresses not only the physical and emotional aspects of a patient's journey but also their spiritual needs. We understand that spirituality plays a crucial role in the well-being of many individuals, especially during the end-of-life process, and we are committed to offering compassionate spiritual support that aligns with each patient's beliefs and values.

• Interfaith Chaplaincy Services
  Our hospice team includes interfaith chaplains who are trained to provide spiritual care to patients of all faiths, as well as those who may not identify with any particular religious tradition. These chaplains are available to offer prayer, spiritual counseling, or simply a listening ear, helping patients find peace, comfort, and meaning during their final days.
  
  
• Personalized Spiritual Support
  We recognize that each patient's spiritual needs are unique. Our chaplains work closely with patients and their families to understand their specific beliefs, traditions, and practices. Whether it involves facilitating religious rituals, connecting patients with their own faith community, or offering guidance on spiritual concerns, we tailor our support to meet the individual needs of each patient.
  
  
• Emotional and Existential Support
  For some patients, spiritual care involves addressing deeper existential questions and fears that may arise as they approach the end of life. Our chaplains and social workers are skilled in providing compassionate support to help patients explore these questions, find comfort in their beliefs, and navigate the emotional challenges of their journey.
  
  
• Family Spiritual Support
  We also extend our spiritual care services to the families of our patients, recognizing that they too may seek comfort, guidance, and support during this time. Our chaplains are available to meet with family members, offer prayer, and provide spiritual counseling, ensuring that the entire family feels supported and cared for.

In all that we do, Fremont Regional Hospice is committed to honoring the spiritual needs of our patients, providing a source of comfort, strength, and peace for both them and their loved ones.

Volunteering with Fremont Regional Hospice is a meaningful way to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families during one of the most challenging times they may face. We welcome individuals who are compassionate, dedicated, and ready to contribute their time and talents to our mission. Here's how you can become a volunteer and what the process involves:

• Submit a Volunteer Application
  The first step to becoming a volunteer is to complete a volunteer application. This application helps us understand your interests, skills, and availability so that we can match you with opportunities that align with your strengths and passions. You can obtain the application by contacting us directly or visiting our website.
  
  
• Initial Interview and Background Check
  After submitting your application, our Volunteer Coordinator will reach out to schedule an interview. This conversation allows us to get to know you better and discuss the various roles available. To ensure the safety and well-being of our patients, all volunteers are required to undergo a background check as part of the application process.
  
  
• Attend Volunteer Training
  Once accepted, you will participate in a comprehensive training program designed to prepare you for your volunteer role. The training covers important topics such as the hospice philosophy, patient care, communication skills, and understanding the emotional and spiritual needs of patients and families. This training ensures that you feel confident and equipped to provide the highest level of care and support.
  
  
• Begin Volunteering
  After completing the necessary training, you will be ready to begin your volunteer journey with Fremont Regional Hospice. Volunteers can serve in a variety of capacities, including providing companionship to patients, offering respite to caregivers, assisting with administrative tasks, or helping with special events and fundraising efforts. Your Volunteer Coordinator will work with you to find a role that best suits your skills and interests.

Volunteering with Fremont Regional Hospice is a deeply rewarding experience, offering you the chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. Whether you can give a few hours a week or a few hours a month, your contribution will be valued and appreciated. We invite you to join our team of compassionate volunteers and help us continue our mission of providing exceptional care to our community.

Fremont Regional Hospice is deeply committed to delivering the highest quality of care to our patients, ensuring that they receive compassionate, comprehensive, and personalized support throughout their hospice journey. We achieve this commitment to quality care through a combination of rigorous standards, ongoing training, and a patient-centered approach:

• Highly Skilled and Compassionate Staff
  Our team is composed of experienced professionals, including nurses, certified nursing assistants, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers, all dedicated to providing exceptional care. We carefully select and train our staff to ensure they are not only skilled in their respective roles but also compassionate and sensitive to the unique needs of hospice patients and their families.
  
  
• Personalized Care Plans
  Each patient at Fremont Regional Hospice receives a personalized care plan tailored to their specific needs, preferences, and medical condition. Our interdisciplinary team conducts comprehensive assessments to understand the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the patient, ensuring that every aspect of their care is addressed. These care plans are regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to the changing needs of the patient.
  
  
• Ongoing Education and Training
  To maintain the highest standards of care, our staff undergoes continuous education and training. This includes staying up-to-date with the latest best practices in hospice and palliative care, advancements in pain management and symptom control, and the latest techniques in providing emotional and spiritual support. Regular training sessions help ensure that our team is equipped to deliver the best possible care.
  
  
• Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement
  Fremont Regional Hospice has a robust quality assurance program in place to monitor and evaluate the care provided to our patients. We regularly collect and review patient and family feedback, conduct internal audits, and participate in quality improvement initiatives. This commitment to continuous improvement helps us identify areas for enhancement and implement changes that lead to better outcomes for our patients.

Through these efforts, Fremont Regional Hospice ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of care, delivered with compassion, respect, and dignity. Our commitment to quality is unwavering, and we strive to make every moment as comfortable and meaningful as possible for our patients and their families.

Integrative therapies are non-medical treatments that focus on enhancing the overall well-being of hospice patients by addressing their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs in a holistic manner. These therapies are designed to complement traditional medical care by providing additional methods of pain relief, stress reduction, and emotional support, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients during their end-of-life journey.

• Types of Integrative Therapies
  At Fremont Regional Hospice, we offer a variety of integrative therapies tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients. Some of the therapies we provide include:
  • Touch Therapies: These may involve gentle massage or therapeutic touch, helping to relieve muscle tension, reduce pain, and promote relaxation.
  • Aromatherapy: The use of essential oils can help manage symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and nausea, providing comfort through soothing scents.
  • Music Therapy: Calming music can help reduce stress, alleviate pain, and bring emotional relief, creating a peaceful environment for the patient.
  • Guided Imagery and Meditation: These techniques can help patients manage pain and anxiety by promoting mental relaxation and emotional well-being.
• Complementing Traditional Medical Care
  Integrative therapies work alongside traditional medical treatments to provide a more comprehensive approach to care. While medical treatments focus on managing physical symptoms and addressing the clinical aspects of a patient's illness, integrative therapies target the mind-body connection, helping to reduce stress, alleviate discomfort, and support emotional healing.
  
  By addressing the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—these therapies enhance the effectiveness of medical care and contribute to a better overall quality of life.
  
  
• Personalized Care
  Just as with medical treatments, integrative therapies are tailored to each patient's individual needs and preferences. Our hospice team collaborates with patients and their families to determine which therapies will be most beneficial, ensuring that the care provided aligns with the patient's wishes and enhances their comfort and well-being.
  
  
• Evidence-Based Benefits
  Medical research has shown that integrative therapies can be instrumental in reducing symptoms like pain and anxiety, improving mood, and enhancing the overall experience of patients in hospice care. These therapies are not meant to replace traditional medical care but rather to complement it, offering additional tools to help patients find comfort and peace during their hospice journey.

In summary, integrative therapies at Fremont Regional Hospice are a vital part of our holistic approach to care, offering additional support that complements traditional medical treatments and helps improve the quality of life for our patients.

Fremont Regional Hospice is committed to supporting families not only during the hospice care journey but also after the passing of a loved one. We understand that the grieving process is deeply personal and can be overwhelming, and we offer a range of grief support services to help families navigate this challenging time with compassion and understanding.

• One-on-One Grief Counseling
  Our trained grief counselors are available to provide individualized support to family members who are coping with the loss of a loved one. These sessions offer a safe and confidential space to express emotions, process grief, and receive guidance on how to navigate the journey of mourning.
  
  
• Support Groups
  We offer grief support groups where individuals can connect with others who are experiencing similar losses. These groups provide a sense of community and shared understanding, helping participants feel less isolated in their grief. Facilitated by experienced counselors, these groups offer a supportive environment to share stories, discuss challenges, and explore coping strategies.
  
  
• Bereavement Resources
  Fremont Regional Hospice provides a variety of bereavement resources, including literature, workshops, and educational materials, to help families understand the grieving process and find comfort in their own time. These resources are designed to offer practical advice and emotional support as families work through their grief.
  
  
• Ongoing Follow-Up and Support
  Grief does not have a set timeline, and our commitment to families continues long after the initial period of loss. Our bereavement team stays in touch with families through regular follow-up calls, mailings, and check-ins, ensuring that they continue to receive the support they need as they move through the different stages of grief.

These grief support services are available to all families who have received care from Fremont Regional Hospice, and they are offered at no cost. Our goal is to provide a compassionate and understanding presence during this difficult time, helping families find healing and peace as they honor the memory of their loved one.

Caring for a loved one with a life-limiting illness can be both rewarding and challenging. Fremont Regional Hospice recognizes the vital role that family caregivers play in providing support and comfort to patients, and we are dedicated to equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need through our comprehensive caregiver training program. Here's how we can assist:

• Customized Training Programs
  Our caregiver training is tailored to the specific needs of each patient and their family. We provide personalized education that addresses the unique medical, emotional, and practical aspects of caring for your loved one. This training includes instructions on managing symptoms, administering medications, providing physical care, and understanding the emotional and psychological needs of the patient.
  
  
• Hands-On Guidance
  Our experienced hospice team, including nurses, certified nursing assistants, and social workers, offers hands-on guidance to caregivers. This may involve demonstrating care techniques in the patient's home, assisting with the proper use of medical equipment, and providing step-by-step instructions on how to handle daily caregiving tasks. This practical, real-time support ensures that caregivers feel confident and capable in their roles.
  
  
• Emotional and Psychological Support
  Caregiving can be emotionally demanding, and our team is here to support caregivers through every step of the journey. We provide counseling and emotional support to help caregivers cope with the stress, anxiety, and grief that often accompany caregiving. Our social workers and chaplains are available to offer guidance and a listening ear, helping caregivers navigate the emotional challenges they may face.
  
  
• Ongoing Education and Resources
  As the needs of the patient change, so too may the responsibilities of the caregiver. Fremont Regional Hospice offers ongoing education and access to resources to ensure that caregivers remain well-informed and prepared. This includes informational materials, workshops, and access to our hospice team for any questions or concerns that arise. We also provide information on community resources that may be beneficial to caregivers.

Through our caregiver training program, Fremont Regional Hospice empowers family caregivers with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to provide the best possible care for their loved ones. We are here to walk alongside you, offering guidance and reassurance as you fulfill your important role in the caregiving journey.

If you have any questions or concerns about the care your loved one is receiving from Fremont Regional Hospice, it's important to know that we are here to listen and address any issues promptly. Here are the steps you can take to ensure your concerns are heard and resolved:

• Speak with the Hospice Team
  The first step is to communicate directly with the hospice team members who are involved in your loved one's care. This includes nurses, certified nursing assistants, social workers, or chaplains. They are the most familiar with your loved one's care plan and can often provide immediate answers or solutions to your concerns.
  
  
• Contact the Hospice Administrator
  If your concerns are not fully addressed by the hospice team, or if you prefer to speak with someone else, you can reach out to the Hospice Administrator or Clinical Director. They are responsible for overseeing the care provided and can help resolve more complex issues or make adjustments to the care plan as needed.
  
  
• Request a Care Conference
  If you feel that a more in-depth discussion is needed, you can request a care conference. This meeting brings together all members of the hospice care team, including medical directors, nurses, social workers, and chaplains, to review your loved one's care plan and address any concerns in a collaborative manner. It's an opportunity for you to ask questions, express your concerns, and ensure that everyone is aligned in providing the best possible care for your loved one.
  
  
• Utilize Patient Advocacy Resources
  Fremont Regional Hospice is committed to ensuring that every patient receives high-quality, compassionate care. If you feel your concerns are not being adequately addressed through the usual channels, you may also contact patient advocacy resources or organizations that oversee hospice care standards. Our team can provide you with contact information for these resources if needed.

Your satisfaction and peace of mind are extremely important to us, and we encourage open communication at all times. We are here to support both you and your loved one, and we will work diligently to address any questions or concerns you may have.