Yesterday was my 8 hour "new hire" General orientation to Community Home Health and Hospice. Not yet in my "Intake Coordinator" position specific orientation. We received at home hospice services for my Mom when she was suffering from cancer over 4 years ago. It was interesting to recognize the nurse who worked with my Mom. Didn't get to talk to her since she was just passing through and I was actually in a class. Many "true" (as in dedicated, and in the their niche") Hospice nurses stay in the field of hospice for many years.
Some interesting things:
# 1, I learned that the medical director for our hospice is none other than DH's neurologist. It just happened to be today that my daughter had an appt with him today (he manages her migraine meds). I told him I just started with hospice. He is such a sweety and said "well, we're very lucky to have you with us."
# 2, Just 4 years ago their percentage of patients with cancer was greater than 70, and about 20 percent were neurologic disorders such as ALS, Parkinsons, and dementia. Today, their percentage of clientele that are neurologic patients is around 40 percent, the majority of them being dementia patients. So, Hospice is really coming away from its more common association with mostly cancer-related care. It makes you wonder if cancer treatment keeps people out of hospice care longer? Or if it is simply that dementia is quickly becoming a more common terminal illness than cancer?
# 3, It was mentioned that dementia patients are very commonly "on and off certified" numerous times.....that they will be discharged when they plateau for a period, but usually recertified again shortly after.
As I get more training I'll be learning much more about "Medicare/Medicaide and Private Insurance" requirements as they, and not the hospice pretty much dictate the coverage criteria. I will be sure to share whatever I can.
Wow, good for you New Realm! As for #2, I would bet that advances in cancer awareness and early treatment is keeping more people out of hospice care for that disease rather than dementia becoming more prevalent. I would not be surprised if many people with dementia are cancer survivors.
Perhaps more awareness of dementias, recognition that it is a terminal disease, and acknowledging the toll on the caregivers accounts for more dementia patients being admitted to hospice care. (?)