Summary
In this episode, Jerry Vinci discusses the often misunderstood topic of hospice care with Brett Schnable and Nicole Peacock from Suncrest Hospice. They explore the common misconceptions surrounding hospice, share their personal journeys into the field, and emphasize the importance of early involvement in hospice services. The conversation highlights how hospice is not about giving up, but rather about improving quality of life and providing support for both patients and their families. They also discuss the unique model of care at Suncrest and the significance of reframing hospice as extra support rather than a last resort. In this conversation, Brett Schnable and Nicole Peacock discuss the complexities of hospice care, emphasizing the importance of timely decisions, emotional sensitivity, and building relationships with senior living communities. They explore the unique challenges of the hospice sales cycle, the need for collaboration with healthcare providers, and the growing demand for hospice services due to an aging population. The discussion also highlights the essential skills required for hospice caregivers, the cultural shift needed in healthcare conversations, and the future of hospice care amidst workforce shortages. Ultimately, they aim to reframe the stigma surrounding hospice, focusing on quality of life and compassionate support for patients and families.
Takeaways
- Hospice is about improving quality of life, not giving up.
- Many people delay hospice care due to misconceptions.
- Hospice is for anyone with a terminal illness, not just cancer.
- Conversations about hospice need to happen earlier.
- Hospice provides comprehensive support for patients and families.
- Patients can start and stop hospice services as needed.
- Suncrest Hospice offers unique support services, including daily aid visits.
- The emotional impact of hospice care extends to families and caregivers.
- Word of mouth plays a significant role in hospice care decisions.
- The initial contact with hospice can greatly influence family decisions. Timely hospice care can alleviate pressure on families.
- Building relationships with senior living communities is crucial.
- Emotional sensitivity is key in hospice conversations.
- Understanding patients’ stories enhances care quality.
- Collaboration with physicians improves patient outcomes.
- Hiring the right staff is essential for hospice success.
- Hospice care requires unique skills and experience.
- The healthcare system needs to shift towards supportive care.
- Insurance coverage for hospice is broader than many think.
- Reframing hospice as ‘extra care’ can reduce stigma.
