The hospice: Humane care for the dying

Area of Science:

• Palliative Care
• Thanatology
• Healthcare Administration

Background:

• The hospice movement emerged as a response to the impersonal and overly medicalized environment of acute-care hospitals.
• Dying patients often experienced a loss of dignity and meaningfulness due to excessive life support.
• There is a growing need for specialized care that addresses the holistic needs of the terminally ill.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the philosophy and evolution of the hospice movement in the United States.
• To highlight comprehensive hospice care models, such as St. Mary's Hospice.
• To examine the role of government funding and legislative action in expanding hospice services.

Main Methods:

• Review of the hospice movement's origins and principles.
• Case study of St. Mary's Hospice in Tucson, Arizona.
• Analysis of government-funded demonstration projects and their impact on policy.

Main Results:

• Approximately 800 hospice programs are developing in the U.S.
• St. Mary's Hospice provides a comprehensive model including home care, inpatient care, and creative expression.
• Government initiatives are paving the way for improved reimbursement for hospice services.

Conclusions:

• Hospice care prioritizes compassionate, pastoral, and community-based support for the terminally ill.
• Spiritual and religious support are crucial for alleviating anxiety and fostering hope in dying patients.
• Legislative changes are anticipated to increase access to Medicare, Medicaid, and third-party payer reimbursement for hospice care.