Debunking Myths and Misconceptions About Hospice and Palliative Care: What You Need to Know
Many individuals and families struggle to understand the difference between hospice and palliative care when faced with serious illness. Despite the growing awareness of these services, numerous myths persist, leading to confusion about what they truly offer. At Gilchrist, we want to set the record straight by addressing common misconceptions and providing the facts about how we support patients and their loved ones through every stage of serious illness.
For more than 30 years, Gilchrist has been a leader in delivering compassionate hospice and palliative care to patients and families across Maryland. As we celebrate National Hospice and Palliative Care Month in November, it’s the perfect time to shed light on these myths.
Myth 1: Hospice is a place.
Fact: Hospice is not a specific place—it’s a philosophy of care. While some hospice care can be provided in our dedicated inpatient facilities, the majority of hospice services are delivered wherever the patient calls home—whether that’s a private residence, a nursing home, or an assisted living facility. At Gilchrist, we provide hospice care wherever it is needed. Our hospice teams bring expert medical care, emotional and spiritual support, and practical assistance to patients, allowing them to remain in the comfort of their own surroundings.
Myth 2: Hospice care is only for the final days of life.
Fact: Hospice care is available to patients with a prognosis of six months or less to live, as determined by a physician. Many people mistakenly believe that hospice is only for the last few days of life. However, hospice can provide comfort, support, and quality of life for months. In fact, patients often tell us they wish they had started hospice care sooner. At Gilchrist, our care is centered around living as fully as possible for as long as possible. Families who enroll their loved ones early in hospice report feeling more prepared, less stressed, and grateful for the support they receive.
Myth 3: Palliative care is the same as hospice care.
Fact: While hospice and palliative care both focus on comfort and quality of life, they serve different needs. Unlike hospice, palliative care is appropriate at any stage of a serious or chronic illness and is not limited to the last months of life. In addition, it can be combined with curative treatments, whereas hospice generally cannot. Gilchrist’s palliative care is available in select hospitals, long-term care centers, and homes, aiming to improve both the patient’s and their family’s quality of life. Patients suffering from conditions like heart disease, COPD, cancer, kidney failure, dementia, and other chronic illnesses can benefit from palliative care. It helps manage the complexities and symptoms associated with these conditions.
Myth 4: Hospice care means giving up hope.
Fact: Choosing hospice care is not about giving up hope; it’s about changing the focus of hope. Instead of hoping for a cure, families and patients can hope for meaningful moments, symptom relief, and time together without pain or distress. Hospice provides compassionate care that aligns with the patient’s goals and wishes. At Gilchrist, we offer a range of services that go beyond medical care, including emotional and spiritual support, music therapy, and volunteer companionship. Our goal is to enhance quality of life and provide peace of mind during this important time.
Myth 5: Hospice care is only for cancer patients.
Fact: Hospice care is available for patients with a wide range of illnesses, including heart disease, lung disease, dementia, kidney disease, and many other life-limiting conditions. At Gilchrist, we provide expert care tailored to the needs of each patient, regardless of their diagnosis. Our interdisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers work together to ensure every patient receives individualized care and support.
Myth 6: Once you’re in hospice care, you can’t leave.
Fact: Hospice care is not a one-way street. Patients can leave hospice care at any time if their condition improves or if they decide to pursue curative treatments again. If their condition worsens, they can return to hospice care. At Gilchrist, we prioritize flexibility and patient choice. Our services adapt to meet the changing needs of the patient and their family.
Myth 7: Hospice care is only for the patient.
Fact: Hospice care extends far beyond the patient—it’s about supporting the entire family. At Gilchrist, we provide counseling, respite care, and bereavement services for loved ones, helping them cope with the emotional challenges that come with a loved one’s illness. We understand that serious illness affects the entire family, and we are here to provide comfort, support, and resources every step of the way. Our bereavement services continue for up to 13 months after the loss, ensuring families receive the care they need during their grief journey.
Myth 8: Hospice care is expensive and unaffordable.
Fact: Hospice care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans, making it accessible to nearly everyone. At Gilchrist, we believe that no one should be denied care because of an inability to pay. We are committed to providing care to all who need it, regardless of their financial situation. Our team works with families to navigate the financial aspects of care so they can focus on what matters most—being with their loved ones.
By dispelling these myths and sharing the facts, we hope to empower individuals and families to make informed decisions about their care. Whether you or a loved one is in need of hospice or palliative care, Gilchrist is here to provide the support, comfort, and guidance you deserve. To learn more about Gilchrist’s services, visit: https://gilchristcares.org/about/