What is Hospice at Home?
Hospice at Home (H@H) is a hospice-type service delivered at home to support patients and families who wish to be cared for in their own home. The service is available to patients who have any life limiting illness and is usually provided in partnership with GPs and district nurses. Hospice type care may be delivered by voluntary sector and local health and social care organisations
What services are available?
Services will be available in your area but will differ slightly from locality to locality. Nursing and supportive care can be given to support families who need additional care especially during times of change in illness patterns or difficulty with symptoms.
How do I access Hospice at Home?
Patients are usually referred to a H@H service by a GP or district nurse but anyone can contact a service to enquire about care. On referral the organisation will contact you to identify your needs. A plan of care will then be developed including other services such as your district nurse or voluntary organisations. H@H usually work closely with the district nurse and GP sharing the care that is required for patients and their families. All professionals will communicate regularly to discuss and plan treatment and care. To find out about your local services access the directory at Help the Hospices.
Who can access Hospice at Home services?
Each organisation will have their own referral criteria. In general any patients with a life limiting illness requiring intensive or additional care at home can access a H@H service. Services vary across the UK in regards to the timing of service input. Acceptance of referrals may be dependent upon resource availability.
Do I have to pay for Hospice at Home?
The service is generally free to all who access it as they are provided by the NHS or a charity. However, you may wish to check this with your local service provider.
