HOB has an Open Door philosophy. We are committed to reaching out and serving everyone who is eligible for and entitled to the full range of hospice services, regardless of the complexity or intensity of their care needs -- or their ability to pay. This approach simplifies admission criteria, enabling patients to receive services earlier and to optimize their quality of life without foregoing any types of treatment that may be beneficial to them. This includes those who…

• May be receiving chemotherapy, radiation, blood transfusions, TPN, dialysis, IV antibiotics and other therapies
• Have not signed a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) Order
• May not have caregivers

We follow the only 2 Medicare regulations regarding eligibility for hospice admission:

• Physician judgment of life expectancy of 6 months or less if the illness runs it’s normal course (The physician believes the patient is more likely than not to die in 6 months), and
• Patient election of our services. (The patient/family desires our services)

We believe hospice is about quality of life…helping people live as actively and fully as possible -- for as long as possible.

If there is any doubt about eligibility or if you have any questions about services that are available to you or your loved one, please contact us. We are here to answer your questions and would be happy to have one of our nurses meet with you or your loved one to discuss and determine eligibility.
This also means we’re responsible and cover the costs associated with these special treatments. In the two years since its inception, our Open Door approach has resulted in a significant increase in the number of patients receiving hospice care.

What are the benefits of our Open Door Philosophy?

Using an Open Door approach, patients and families often receive services earlier, as soon as eligible. Patients can begin to receive services while still making the transition from curative to palliative care. This helps patients and families understand the benefits and burdens of treatment options – making choices in your own time frame.

And, with an Open Door approach, patients receive the full scope of services. Aside from optimizing life, this approach can eliminate financial stress for costs of medications and special treatments. Studies have shown that over 50% of those with a terminal illness consume their entire life savings on costs of care and medications.