Does a hospice provide around-the-clock care?
Hospice care is an intermittent care program, meaning that care is provided through visits by hospice team members. Hospice does not provide ongoing 24-hour care for the patient at home. Hospice care provides support to the family—it does not replace the family. Hospice care is delivered through visits by nurses, counselors and volunteers (if the family wishes), and by home health aides (if the hospice determines appropriate need). If the family feels they must hire a companion for the patient for a portion of the day, they are free to do so privately.
