Frequently Asked Questions

Hospice is a specialized type of care, not a place. Hospice provides quality, compassionate care to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses. The care provided focuses on maximizing the quality of life based on an individual’s choices, so that the person may live life as fully and comfortably as possible, for as long as possible.

Hospice care is provided in many different locations: private homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes and hospitals. St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care Hospice also provides hospice in a free-standing Care Center.

Care is for anyone who has a life expectancy of six months or less based on a physician’s best judgment. This includes, but is not limited to, Alzheimer’s, heart and liver diseases, cancer, COPD, ALS, Parkinson’s and other conditions related to end-of-life.

Some people live longer than their original prognoses once their pain and symptoms are under control. We continue to provide the same care for you as long as you meet the conditions for hospice services.

Hospice embraces the philosophy of being able to be with your loved one when it matters most. The IPU does not restrict visitors at any time unless requested by the patient or ordered by the physician.

Full Policy & Procedures (.pdf)

No. Hospice of St. Francis values the relationship you have with your physician. The hospice physicians are available to partner with your doctor and the hospice team to provide effective pain and symptom management.

Your Hospice team comes to you, providing everything you need to be comfortable. This allows you to focus on valuable time with your loved ones.

Hospice care may also improve quality of life by:

• Reducing the time spent in the clinic and the emergency room
• Decreasing your out-of-pocket medical expenses
• Having a Hospice nurse available any time, day or night, by calling 321-269-4240

We often hear from physicians that they wait for their patient and their family to ask about hospice first. It is important to speak with your health care team about all options available to you for your care and this includes hospice. It is never too early to begin a conversation with your physician about hospice. If you are not comfortable with doing this, call Hospice of St. Francis, and we can help you to have this conversation with your physician. You should feel free to discuss hospice care at any time with your doctor, other health care professionals, clergy, or loved ones.

Hospice care is primarily paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, or the VA. However, Hospice of St. Francis accepts all eligible patients, regardless of their ability to pay.

Yes, you and your family are in charge of your care.

Many people, especially if they are receiving hospice care early in their illnesses, are able to continue to live independently. However, as your illness progresses, you may want more assistance. We will help you identify a plan to get the help you need.

If you’re living with a life-limiting illness, St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care Hospice can help. Contact us and we’ll visit with you at a time convenient for you, free of charge. If hospice care is right for you, we will do the follow-up work, including contacting your doctor, starting the necessary paperwork and arranging a visit with a hospice nurse.

You simply need to call us. Anyone can refer someone for hospice care. We have a team of professionals that are available to discuss your specific situation and help you decide if it is time for you to choose hospice.  Our number is 321-269-4240 and we consider it a privilege to serve you.