(Newswire.net— May 24, 2023) — Although speaking about end-of-life care can make people uncomfortable at times, the reality is that death comes for everyone. No one knows exactly when that will be, but speaking about it ahead of time and gaining family support can bring valuable peace of mind at a stressful time. HealthKeeperz, an organization that provides hospice services, case management to adults with developmental disabilities, and home medical equipment, has assisted North Carolina families in these areas since the mid-1960s.
Other Benefits of Creating a Proactive Care Plan for End of Life Support
Very few things about the process of dying are under a person’s direct control. Deciding when, where, and how to receive palliative care or hospice care gives a sick and dying person back some control over their life along with their dignity. Careful planning also provides peace and comfort to family members who must say goodbye to their loved ones.
HealthKeeperz is a faith-based, family-operated organization that pursues integrative care as much as it makes sense for each patient. The services are both medical, such as providing pain relief to a cancer patient, and practical or spiritual, such as helping patients and their families plan a meaningful memorial service. The specific blend of services each person receives depends on their medical diagnosis, expected life span, and their own wishes.
Understanding the Differences Between Hospice Care and Palliative Care
People living in a hospice care situation have a terminal illness with little to no hope of recovery. Their expected life span is typically weeks to months, although it can be up to two years. Terminally ill patients have expressed their wishes to receive comfort care but have declined any heroic life saving measures. Healthcare professionals sometimes refer to hospice care as end of life palliative care.
Palliative care focuses on dignity and quality of life by addressing medical, practical, and spiritual needs. Pain relief and control of the patient’s symptoms are also primary focus points for patients receiving palliative care, their families, and the staff members caring for them.
The team at HealthKeeperz regularly assesses the needs of patients receiving hospice or palliative care. Personal hygiene, feeding, pain control, and other needs can change quickly for people in their last days and weeks of life. The staff sees to it that every patient receives the care they need that day to feel loved, cared for, and comfortable.
In-House Chaplains Make a Difference
Patients staying at HealthKeeperz don’t have to worry about calling a religious leader to visit them. The North Carolina-based healthcare organization has chaplains right onsite who can visit patients when requested. The chaplains also counsel family members who are going through an emotional and stressful time of their own.
HealthKeeperz is a Partner to Family Members and Other Caregivers
The staff at HealthKeeperz understand that they are not just serving a seriously ill individual but also the people who love that person the most. They are here to recommend services to family members just as much as the patient.
At a time when emotions are running higher than ever, families find that they must deal with insurance or Medicare on top of managing dozens of other correspondence each week. The HealthKeeperz end-of-life care team can also assist in this area by helping families navigate the forms and requirements.
HealthKeeperz has received advanced certification from Medicare and Medicaid, which means that it meets the strict criteria for effective programing from both government health insurance programs. From dealing with red tape to making daily medical decisions to dealing with the grief of losing a loved one, the staff at HealthKeeperz understand the position its clients are in and aim to provide customized support for the entire family.