Hospice Services

Patients referred to hospice when life expectancy is less than approximately six months benefit most from hospice care. While patients must have a doctor's referral to enter hospice, the patient, family and friends can initiate the process by contacting Kaiser Permanente Hospice.

	Before providing care, hospice staff communicate with the patient's personal physician(s) and a hospice physician to discuss patient history, current physical symptoms and life expectancy.
	After an initial discussion with physicians, hospice staff meets with both the patient and their family. They discuss the hospice philosophy, available services and expectations.
	Staff and patients also discuss pain and comfort levels, support systems, financial and insurance resources, medications and equipment needs.
	A "plan of care" is developed for the patient. This plan is regularly reviewed and revised according to patient condition.
	Bereavement services and counseling are typically available to loved ones for a year after the patient's death.

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