What to Expect From Hospice Care

At Banner Health, hospice care is personalized to meet the needs of each patient and family. You and your loved ones are at the center of every decision. Our role is to provide care, guidance and resources as you move through this important stage of life. 

What families can expect 

We know how meaningful this time with your loved one is. That’s why we provide the support, education and services you need when choosing hospice. Your Banner hospice care team is available to you day or night to answer questions and help manage symptoms. 

Patients in hospice receive care from a multidisciplinary team of experts. This team includes doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, bereavement counselors and volunteers. Together, they address physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs. We also provide education and training to caregivers so you feel supported and prepared. 

We also listen to caregivers, provide respite when needed and help guide families through difficult choices. 

How hospice care is delivered 

Hospice care is provided wherever you call home - whether that’s a private residence, assisted living facility or nursing home. Your hospice team is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Team members make regular visits to provide medical care, emotional and spiritual support, and assistance with personal care such as bathing and grooming. 

For symptoms that are hard to manage at home, Banner offers inpatient hospice care. These short stays help stabilize symptoms in a comfortable, home-like setting, with the goal of returning the patient home when possible. 

Who is on the hospice care team? 

Every patient has a dedicated hospice team tailored to their needs. This team works closely with the patient’s medical director to create a care plan based on their wishes and values. 

• Medical directors: Oversee the care plan and are available seven days a week. 
• Nurse practitioners: Monitor ongoing needs and adjust the plan as necessary. 
• Nurse case managers: Manage pain and symptoms, stay in close contact with the medical director and adapt care as needs change. 
• Social workers: Provide counseling and connect families with community resources. 
• Home health aides: Assist with personal care such as bathing, dressing and light household support. 
• Chaplains, volunteers, dietitians and therapists: Offer additional physical, emotional and spiritual support. 

Inpatient vs. home hospice care 

• Home hospice care allows patients to remain in familiar surroundings while receiving medical, emotional and personal support. 
• Inpatient hospice care is for patients who need advanced symptom management that cannot be provided at home. These stays are usually temporary, with the goal of returning the patient to a comfortable home environment as soon as possible. 

Considering hospice care 

If you believe hospice may be the right choice for you or your loved one, talk with your doctor. The caring team at Banner Health is here to guide you, answer your questions and support your family throughout the hospice journey.