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Children’s Services“Our daughter’s illness took us by surprise... we were devestated... Hospice stepped in and kept us together during this most difficult time.” How do I know when to call Hospice?The choice of when Hospice care should begin is very personal and especially difficult when a child is ill. In general, the earlier the Hospice referral occurs, the more valuable and meaningful the Hospice experience will be.Isn’t Hospice just for the very end?Too often, Hospice is considered only when someone is very near death. By requesting Hospice care early, time is available to work with and support the child as well as needs of family, school and friends.What about our child’s doctor?Hospice is a team. An integral part of the team is your child’s physician who continues to manage all medical care.What about nursing care?Registered nurses provide direct patient care and support caregivers, assisting families to keep their child at home. Hospice nurses are highly trained and work closely with the child’s physician to provide pain and symptom management. Hospice nurses are not private duty or "shift" nurses. They schedule their visits and maintain contact with the family on a regular basis. In addition, nurses are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to respond to all questions and concerns.Is personal care available?Licensed practical nurses are available to assist by providing visits for personal care under the direction of the Hospice RN case manager.Do social workers assist us?Social workers provide emotional support, counseling or assistance with community resources for children and their families. Personal sessions or family meetings can often help in dealing with stress resulting from a child’s illness and increased care needs.What are the volunteers like?A friendly smile, a listening ear, a helping hand...these are the trademarks of Hospice volunteers. After completing an in-depth training program, Hospice volunteers give of their time freely to assist the child and family.What about spiritual care?The Hospice chaplain is sensitive to the spiritual needs of individuals of any age facing a life-limiting illness. The pastoral care staff is available to Hospice patients and their families and works closely with their clergy or other spiritual support systems.How does Hospice help families deal with the loss of a child?Grief after the loss of a child can be overwhelming. Our grief and bereavement services are designed to help families cope with their loss. Services include personal visits and contacts, educational programs, a monthly newsletter and support group opportunities available for one year after the patient’s death.What’s available for our other children?Children five years and older who are coping with the illness or death of a brother or sister can attend Coping Kids. It is a weekly, non-therapeutic support group where children take part in organized activities and outings such as a special grief camp. SoulMates is a peer support program for teens who are coping with similar issues. Both provide informal opportunities for kids to talk or just listen to others dealing with similar circumstances.How does Hospice get paid for these services?Most health insurance companies cover some or all Hospice services. We will assist in clarifying coverage for you. No one is ever denied service because of inadequate insurance coverage or limited financial resources.Who arranges for drug and medical supplies?Pharmacy items and in-house medical supplies are ordered by the physician and can be coordinated by Hospice staff.What if hospital care becomes necessary?Hospice for children is primarily a home care program. We are, however, prepared for any necessary inpatient stay that may be required as a temporary back-up to home care. Inpatient care, as part of Hospice care, is arranged through the physician and the Hospice nurse. Care may be at the Hospice Center or at area hospitals, depending on the need.What if special services are needed?Should any special services become necessary, Hospice can coordinate them. These services may include dietary counseling, physical therapy or respiratory therapy.For further information, please contact
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Hospice of Lancaster County . 685 Good Drive . PO Box 4125 . Lancaster, PA 17604-4125 . 717-295-3900 | | | | © copyright 2005 Hospice of Lancaster County |
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