Getting Started
Getting hospice care started
Anyone can refer someone to hospice care or request information. With this in mind, getting hospice care started is a rather simple process. The earlier a person is referred, the more we can do to help. The patient and family receive the most benefit if they begin hospice services before it is a crisis. Sadly, many people believe that hospice is unavailable or inappropriate until literally, the last days of a person’s life. To refer someone to hospice, call 713-581-9198 or use our easy online referral form.
Through hospice, patients can enjoy a better quality of life. Hospice care is aimed at pain relief and symptom control, rather than being a curative treatment. In fact, hospice provides many benefits for everyone involved, not just the patient. Our staff also teaches the family to provide care so they feel more confident in their caregiver role. We can help you decide if hospice is the right choice for you and your loved ones. Most importantly, Varco Hospice affirms life of the patient and those who love and care for them.
Hospice admission process
Admission to Varco Hospice is simple and we strive to make it a smooth process for all involved:
A Varco Hospice Program Representative provides a free no-obligation, in-home visit to the patient and/or family. Then together they discuss the patient’s needs, goals, and concerns. They will also discuss the items that are most helpful to have available for the Nurse visit.
Consent forms are signed by the patient or POA. The forms are similar to those completed when entering a hospital. The forms will explain services available to the patient and family.
Varco Hospice will obtain an order for hospice from the patient’s physician.
A Varco Hospice Nurse will make an appointment to visit the patient and/or family and establish a plan for the patient’s care.
Medicare Hospice Benefit
Requires that the physician estimate a life expectancy of six months or less, assuming the disease runs its normal course. With permission from the patient and/or family. Varco Hospice will facilitate getting the information needed to obtain an order for hospice.