The appropriate level of care is assessed by a registered nurse and determined in consultation with the hospice Medical Director.

Routine Level of Care: This is the most common level of care and is provided in the patient’s home setting which can include assisted living communities, board and care homes, nursing homes and long-term care facilities.

Hospice General in Patient Care: This level of care may be initiated when patients are experiencing acute or severe symptoms and it is determined by the medical team that they cannot be managed in the home. This level of care allows for patients to be admitted to a contracted skilled nursing facility, hospice in-patient unit, or hospital until the symptoms can be managed at a lower level of care.

Continuous Care: This level of care may be initiated when a patient is in a period of crisis and a registered nurse assesses they are experiencing acute or severe symptoms that cannot be managed without frequent nursing assistance, and it is the wish of the patient/family to remain at home. Continuous Care is provided by Nurses and Certified Hospice Aides to monitor and gain control over the acute symptoms. Other members of the hospice team may participate in patient care during this time.

Respite Care: Respite care is commonly used when the patient’s caregiver(s) would benefit from a break from the day-to-day responsibilities of caring for a patient in a home setting. Respite care is provided in a contracted facility and is generally limited to five (5) consecutive days per benefit period.