Advance Care Planning:

Comprehensive Support For Hospice Care.

At Hospice of Eastern Idaho, we utilize a specialized approach called Lifecare planning that integrates the principles of care coordination, advocacy, and comprehensive support for individuals receiving hospice care. It focuses on enhancing the quality of life, promoting patient autonomy, and providing holistic care to patients and their families during the end-of-life journey. This article explores the concept of lifecare planning in the context of hospice, highlighting its components, benefits, and the significance of its implementation.

Understanding Lifecare Planning in Hospice:
1. Definition: Lifecare planning in the context of hospice refers to a proactive and comprehensive approach that addresses the medical, emotional, spiritual, and practical needs of individuals and their families during the end-of-life phase. We will work with you to create a personalized plan that outlines the goals, preferences, and desired outcomes for our patient’s care, while also considering the needs and concerns of the family.

2. Collaborative Approach: Lifecare planning in hospice requires a collaborative effort involving the patient, family members, healthcare professionals, and the interdisciplinary hospice care team. This approach ensures that all aspects of care and support are considered, aligning with the patient’s values, goals, and wishes.

Components and Benefits of Lifecare Planning in Hospice:
1. Assessment and Goal Setting: Lifecare planning begins with a comprehensive assessment of our patient’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. This assessment serves as a foundation for setting individualized goals and developing a care plan tailored to the patient’s unique circumstances. It empowers patients to express their desires, priorities, and preferences for end-of-life care.

2. Care Coordination: Lifecare planning promotes effective care coordination among healthcare professionals, ensuring seamless transitions and consistent delivery of care. It helps prevent fragmented services, reduces unnecessary hospital visits, and optimizes the utilization of hospice resources.

3. Symptom Management: Lifecare planning emphasizes proactive symptom management to enhance the patient’s comfort and overall well-being. By regularly assessing and addressing pain, distressing symptoms, and side effects of treatments, lifecare planning optimizes the patient’s physical comfort throughout the hospice journey.

4. Emotional and Psychosocial Support: Lifecare planning recognizes the emotional and psychosocial challenges faced by patients and their families during the end-of-life phase. It involves providing counseling, emotional support, and facilitating communication to help patients and their loved ones navigate the complexities of their emotions and relationships.

5. Advance Care Planning: Lifecare planning encourages advance care planning discussions, ensuring that patients’ preferences for end-of-life care, resuscitation, and life-sustaining treatments are documented and respected. It enables patients to make informed decisions about their care, relieving their families of the burden of decision-making during difficult times.

Implementing Lifecare Planning in Hospice:
1. Education and Training: Our healthcare professionals involved in hospice care have received education and training on lifecare planning principles and practices. This ensures a consistent and patient-centered approach to end-of-life care.

2. Effective Communication: Open and compassionate communication is essential in lifecare planning. Our healthcare professionals will facilitate discussions with patients and their families, actively listening to their concerns, values, and goals. It helps build trust, foster shared decision-making, and align the care plan with the patient’s preferences.

3. Documentation and Review: Lifecare plans should be documented and regularly reviewed to accommodate changes in the patient’s condition, goals, and preferences. Documentation ensures that the plan remains up-to-date and guides the care team in delivering personalized care throughout the hospice journey. Planning enhances the hospice experience by providing comprehensive support, proactive care coordination, and honoring the patient’s wishes and goals.

You can request more information regarding this service by calling (208) 529-0342 to speak to a member of our caring staff or you may request more information by Email