Hospice is a special way of caring for a person whose illness cannot be cured. The focus of hospice is on care, not cure. Hospice is a concept of support and care for patients who have been diagnosed with an illness which will result in a limited life expectancy. Care is certified for people with terminal illness and a life expectancy of 6 months or less by a hospice team including; Medical Director, Hospice Director, Registered Nurse, Aides, Volunteers, Medical Social worker and Chaplin.  Services include: 24 hour "on call" for enrolled patient emergencies, pain and symptom management, skilled nursing, medical social services, resource counseling, including spiritual, bereavement and nutrition, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech/language pathology, education on disease process, coping skills, care planning, and assistance for physicians with case management.  Patients provided with: durable medical equipment, oxygen if ordered for hospice diagnosis, medical supplies. Five day respite for caregiver.                          What to expect:   After discussing Hospice with your Physician, the Physician will send orders to the Hospice.   A nurse will meet with you and your family in your home to evaluate your needs and provide you with information on Hospice.  An individualized plan of care will be developed with input from the Hospice team members to assist you in meeting your physical, mental and spiritual care needs as well as community resources to support your caregivers.