Central Coast VNA & Hospice

When is it time for Hospice to help?

Someone you love may have a serious illness – but you’re not sure it’s really life-limiting. It’s certainly scary, however.

That’s the time to call VNA and talk. Since 1951, day in and day out, the VNA team has talked with others just like you, and it has helped.

VNA’s interdisciplinary team of highly qualified, specially trained nurses, physicians, counselors, aides and volunteers realizes that every person’s experience will be different. They understand.

Is it time for hospice care? Maybe, maybe not. VNA can evaluate you or your loved one’s situation at no cost or obligation.

When it seems to be the right time for hospice care, the VNA team embraces a philosophy that respects a person’s right to die with grace and dignity.

Who is eligible?

Admission to VNA Hospice care involves acknowledging that most diseases in their advanced form cannot be cured. It does not mean giving up hope. A patient doesn’t need to be bed-bound or critically ill to be admitted to hospice.

Hospice admittance is based on patient consent and the approval of the attending physician, who continues to supervise the care provided. Eligibility for the Medicare Hospice Benefit requires that life expectancy is limited to six months or less, if the disease runs its normal course, but a client can be re-certified as needed.

VNA recognizes that most clients want to spend their last days at home in familiar surroundings, and most VNA hospice care occurs in the home. Hospice care may also be provided in nursing and residential care facilities.

What does it cost?

The sooner a patient is admitted to hospice, the sooner financial assistance is available. VNA hospice care is covered by most private insurances and by Medicare and Medi-Cal, which covers not only the professional services of the hospice team but also medical equipment costs, medications for comfort, and supplies – there are very few out-of-pocket costs to the family. Some financial assistance also is available through contributions to VNA from caring individuals. VNA will coordinate coverage and insurance verification for you.

Let VNA help. You don’t need a physician’s approval to talk with us.

Let’s talk! Call us at 831-758-8243