Getting Started with Hospice

When your loved one needs hospice care, or you just need to know more, help is simply a call or click away.

Getting started with hospice can be confusing and overwhelming. You may have many questions and concerns. We can help. Even if you don’t become a client, we can guide you through the process.

Step 1: Give us a call
Anyone can inquire about hospice. Call Halcyon Hospice toll free at 855-328-1700 24 hours a day, seven days a week to get information explaining how hospice works and the benefits to patients and families. You can also visit our Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more.

Step 2: Make a referral
Anyone can refer a patient to hospice, although Medicare requires a physician’s certification for admittance. We will assist in making a smooth transition and answer any questions you and your family may have.

Erin Dawkins, Admissions Coordinator

Step 3: Meet the admissions team
Our team includes specially trained nurses, social workers, chaplains, certified nursing assistants and volunteers who will meet with patients, families and caregivers to listen to their needs and explain the hospice process.

Step 4: Assessment and admission
Our admissions team will come to the patient and assess the patient’s physical, emotional and spiritual well-being, and then begin working on a Plan of Care (POC). A consent form will be signed prior to hospice enrollment, making the patient’s wishes known in writing. If the patient meets eligibility criteria and consents are signed, the patient is admitted to hospice.

Linda McCombs, RN, Clinical Staff Development, Janet Smith, LPN & Sandi Maddox, PCS

Step 5: Plan of care
Our team will work with the physician, patient, family and caregivers to develop a plan of care (POC) that outlines the most appropriate approach for care – combining expert medical care, symptom management and emotional/spiritual support tailored to the patient’s and family’s specific needs and goals.

To find a Halcyon Hospice location near you, click here.

We understand selecting hospice care is not an easy decision. We know you have questions. We can help. Simply submit your information on our Contact Form, indicate your preference for phone or e-mail contact, and click SUBMIT. Halcyon Hospice will take care of the rest.