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Hospice in transition: Kentucky 1982-85.
G S Bonham1, D S Gochman, L Burgess
1Urban Studies Center, College of Urban and Public Affairs, University of Louisville, KY 40292.
American Journal of Public Health
|December 1, 1987
Summary
The number of cancer patients using hospice care in Kentucky increased from 8 to 12 per 100 deaths between 1982 and 1985. This rise was mainly due to new Medicare-certified hospices, with patients also aging and preferring to die at home.
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care
- Oncology
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Cancer remains a leading cause of death.
- Hospice care provides essential support for terminally ill patients.
- Understanding trends in hospice utilization is crucial for healthcare planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in hospice care utilization among cancer patients in Kentucky.
- To identify factors contributing to changes in hospice use between 1982 and 1985.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of hospice patient data in Kentucky.
- Comparison of hospice utilization rates before and after Medicare certification of facilities.
Main Results:
- Hospice utilization for cancer patients increased from 8 to 12 per 100 deaths.
- The growth was primarily driven by three newly Medicare-certified hospices.
- Average patient age increased, and home deaths became more common.
- Hospices potentially served up to 40% of terminally ill cancer patients in some counties.
Conclusions:
- Medicare certification significantly impacted hospice utilization.
- Shifting patient demographics and preferences influenced care settings.
- Hospice care is an increasingly important component of end-of-life cancer care in Kentucky.