Hospice Care
Ease the journey toward the end of life with compassionate hospice care from UNC Health Johnston. Partner with supportive, compassionate caregivers experienced in giving physical, mental, spiritual and emotional comfort to patients and families. We’ll help you make the most of your and your loved ones’ time with each other.
What is Hospice Care?
Hospice care serves those with a life expectancy of six months or less. It serves people who have chosen to stop curative treatment of a disease and instead want to focus on managing symptoms, maintaining quality of life, and ensuring comfort.
Talk to us for help clearing up common misconceptions of hospice.
When to Start Hospice Care
Request hospice care after a diagnosis of a terminal illness, when you no longer seek curative treatment and prefer comfort care. The earlier hospice care begins, the more you and your family may benefit.
Settings for Hospice Care
Ask us for help determining which option best meets your family’s needs:
- Home hospice care – Provides regular visits from professional caregivers in your home or an assisted living facility
- SECU Hospice House – Offers round-the-clock care from skilled nurses in a homelike environment
Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans cover both options.
Hospice Team
To offer complete, well-rounded services, your or your loved one’s doctor works with a team of supportive hospice caregivers, such as:
- Case manager – Develops a personalized hospice care plan
- Certified nursing assistants – Help with activities of daily living and basic health needs
- Chaplain – Provides spiritual care
- Dietitian – Offers personalized advice on getting nutrition in an easy-to-eat way
- Experienced nurses – Tend to everyday health needs
- Physician medical director – Oversees the quality of hospice care
- Rehabilitation specialists – Provide physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Social worker – Makes referrals to community resources and provides counseling, support and bereavement services
- Trained volunteers – Keep patients company, run errands, and do light chores
Support for Families
As advocates for their loved ones, families are a key part of the hospice care team. Trust us to work with you to develop a care plan that meets the needs of your entire family. Also, explore patient rights and responsibilities.
