Hospice is a concept of care designed for the specific needs of those facing a life threatening illness. The focus of care is on quality of life with the expertise of pain management and symptom control. It is a comprehensive program that addresses the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of people and their families as they transition from this life to the next.
How does hospice work?
In order to qualify for hospice service, one must have a prognosis of 6 months or less to live. There needs to be a doctor who orders this service and confirms that given the normal course of the illness, life expectancy is six months or less. There also needs to be a primary caregiver who takes responsibility to oversee the care of the person on hospice service. One third of the book is devoted to the why, who, where and when of hospice.
The Miracle of Hospice 