Is Continuous Care Right for You?

Hospice care is a general term that encompasses several distinct levels of care. Each level of care is designed to provide specific support and benefits to the patient, depending on the state of their condition, the severity of their symptoms, their access to at-home support, and other factors affecting their well-being and quality of life. 
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Continuous care is one of these levels and, as the name suggests, it provides around the clock care to patients. This level of care is intended for patients who are still in their homes or a long-term care facility and who require consistent medical attention from hospice physicians throughout the day and night to manage their symptoms and maintain a certain quality of life. It is also appropriate for hospice patients who are actively dying and who require the presence of trained medical staff to provide assistance to them and their families throughout the transition.

There are certain conditions that a patient must meet in order to qualify for continuous care, as set out by Medicare:
“Continuous home care may only be provided during a period of crisis as necessary to maintain an individual at home. A period of crisis is a period in which a patient requires continuous care that is predominantly nursing care to achieve palliation or management of acute medical symptoms.”

What to do if you’re considering continuous care

If you’re wondering whether continuous care is an option for your situation, the first thing to do is reach out to trained hospice staff for more information and guidance. Our friendly and knowledgeable team can help you navigate your decisions and determine what level of care you need and how to access it. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.