A prospective patient or family member may call Hospice & Palliative Care for information at any time. Early contact will help patients and families make informed decisions regarding future choices. Obtaining all appropriate information about Hospice & Palliative Care will help both patients and families understand the role of Hospice & Palliative Care, should their services be elected. The Hospice & Palliative Care staff will contact the prospective patient's doctor to determine the medical appropriateness for Hospice. Federal law requires that the physician estimate a life expectancy of six months or less, assuming the disease runs its normal course, to receive care. Often, the doctor or the hospital discharge planner will contact Hospice & Palliative Care after they have discussed the hospice option with the patient and family. One actually becomes a HPCI patient by signing a consent form electing hospice care.
Anyone can call the Hospice & Palliative Care Admissions Department for additional information or referrals without obligation at (315) 735-6484 or 1-800-317-5661.