Admission Guidelines

Admission Guidelines

Any patient with a life-limiting, progressive illness whose prognosis may be six months or less if the disease runs its normal course. Illnesses may include, but are not limited to the following examples: cancer, heart disease, dementia, pulmonary disease, renal failure, ALS.

The patient and his or her physician choose to pursue a palliative approach to care.

The patient has a physician who consents to provide hospice care.

The patient chooses hospice care and elects to receive that service through Rice Hospice.

When is referral indicated?

The focus of care is comfort and palliation of symptoms.

The patient has a progressive illness with a prognosis of six months or less if the disease runs its normal course.

History of numerous repeat hospitalizations.

The patient requires close monitoring of interventions used to manage pain and other symptoms.

The patient and family recognize the need for help with care and ongoing emotional support.

How to refer to Rice Hospice

Anyone can initially refer a patient to hospice - physician, nurse, social worker, clergy, family, friends, or the patient.

Contact Rice Hospice at 1.800.336.7423 to be connected to staff in your area. Or, check the Contact Us page for a complete listing of Rice Hospice offices.

Information regarding the patient's diagnosis and prognosis will be requested of the attending physician.

Rice Hospice will arrange a meeting with patient and family to discuss hospice care and services. There is no charge for consultation visits and the patient is not obligated to accept services.

Early referrals are encouraged. Hospice care allows patient to maintain greater consistency in symptom management and live each day to the best of their ability.

Can medical treatments continue once a patient elects hospice care?

Medical treatment for the patient continues. The focus of care is comfort rather than curative. Rice Hospice is committed to reducing barriers to hospice care.

Discussing patient and family goals related to treatment is helpful to determine treatment methods and longevity.

The goal of hospice care is to enhance the quality of life through physical, emotional, and spiritual support. Futile and burdensome therapies are discouraged if the perceived goal is postponing death rather than enhancing life.