Hospice Care, Palliative Support & Planning with Helen Bauer | The Care Table | Ep. 9

In this episode of The Care Table podcast, Amy Huddleston interviews Helen Bauer, a seasoned hospice and palliative care nurse, to demystify hospice care and its benefits. They discuss the philosophy of hospice, the interdisciplinary team involved, and the importance of early engagement with hospice services. Helen shares insights on palliative care, the role of spiritual support, and the common myths surrounding hospice. The conversation emphasizes the need for open communication and planning in end-of-life care, encouraging families to seek help sooner rather than later.Takeaways:- Hospice is a philosophy of care, not a place.- Over 90% of patients prefer to die at home.- Hospice care is for those with a life expectancy of six months or less.- The hospice team includes doctors, nurses, social workers, and chaplains.- Patients can still receive therapies like physical therapy in hospice.- Hospice does not provide 24/7 care; family involvement is crucial.- Palliative care is available for those still seeking curative treatment.- Hospice services are typically covered by Medicare and Medicaid.- Patients can leave hospice care if they choose to pursue curative treatment.- Early engagement with hospice can significantly improve quality of life.Sound bites:"Don't fear the word hospice.""Hospice is a philosophy of care.""Over 90% prefer to die at home."Products/Books/Resources:Medicare (.gov) Care Compare: https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/?providerType=HospiceHospice Navigation Services: https://www.theheartofhospice.com/The Heart of Hospice podcast: https://www.theheartofhospice.com/podcastBeing Mortal by Dr. Atul Gawande: https://amzn.to/4mJjMxySome of the links provided are affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you purchase through these links. Thank you for your support!Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Hospice Care02:14 Understanding Hospice: A Philosophy of Care05:05 Who is Hospice For?07:11 Criteria for Hospice Admission08:44 The Benefits of Early Hospice Care10:49 The Hospice Care Team Explained15:44 Legacy Projects and Spiritual Counseling17:42 The Role of Chaplains in Hospice Care21:11 Therapies Offered in Hospice Care23:59 Understanding the Schedule of Hospice Services28:05 Supplementing Hospice with Home Care33:41 Medication Management in Hospice Care34:36 Understanding Medication Administration in Hospice Care38:11 Navigating Hospice Payment Options39:48 Finding the Right Hospice Agency44:07 Supplemental Services for Hospice Patients47:52 Defining Palliative Care53:37 Distinguishing Between Hospice and Palliative Care58:14 The Personal Journey into Hospice Nursing01:05:11 The Process of Hospice Admission01:07:32 The Importance of Early Hospice Engagement01:09:47 A Case Study: Late Hospice Referral01:15:38 Debunking Myths About Hospice Care01:19:30 Empowering Conversations About Hospice01:24:02 Navigating Hospice ServicesSupport The Care Table Podcast:Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCareTableFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaretable/Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Care-Table/61580615603797/Our website: https://www.thecaretable.com/Email us: [email protected] rate and review us so we know if we’re helping you!