Hospice care through 3HC is a wonderful way to help secure lasting memories with your loved one as they near the end of their journey—but do they need inpatient hospice vs. outpatient hospice? There are distinct differences in these types of care, even though our dedication to treating you like family remains the same. 

We’ll take a closer look at the differences between inpatient vs. outpatient hospice and how to tell which care is most appropriate.

The Differences between Inpatient Hospice vs. Outpatient Hospice

Inpatient Hospice

Inpatient hospice means that your loved one will receive specialized healthcare in a facility instead of their home. It’s important to note that these facilities are typically not nursing homes, but rather places of respite, solace, and customized care. Care is available 24/7 with inpatient hospice centers. This is one of the distinctions between inpatient hospice vs. outpatient hospice.

When is Inpatient Hospice Needed?

We evaluate each case based on the individual situation, but in general, inpatient hospice may be appropriate if:

• Your loved one has several complex symptoms that require intensive management
• There are safety concerns
• There are specialized facilities—such as our Kitty Askins Hospice Center  or our SECU Crystal Coast Hospice House–that can offer the needed level of care
• Family caregivers need respite
• Specialized medical equipment is needed

Outpatient Hospice

For outpatient hospice, your loved one will receive care in their home. This enables them to spend as much time as possible in a familiar environment, surrounded by family and friends. This also means they can maintain as much independence for as long as possible.

The bottom line? When you’re talking about inpatient hospice vs. outpatient hospice, you should realize that hospice is not a place, rather it is a complete array of services designed to minimize symptoms to ease your loved one’s final transition. 

It’s another way that our family can provide care to your family.

When Would You Need Outpatient Hospice?

Following are some examples of when outpatient hospice would be appropriate:

• There is a strong desire to stay at home, in a familiar environment
• The patients’ symptoms can be well-controlled with medication
• Family and other caregivers can give their support
• The patient can maintain a certain level of independence
• The patient needs the emotional comfort of those that they love

Who Qualifies for Hospice?

Not sure if you or your loved one qualifies for inpatient hospice vs. outpatient hospice? We’ve outlined some important guidelines to help you determine if hospice is appropriate. 

To qualify for hospice, you must:

• Be diagnosed with an illness with six months or less to live
• Have decided to no longer seek curative treatments
• Have a physician’s referral

Every Moment Counts—Choose a Hospice That Understands and Treats You Like Family

Since our founding in 1981, 3HC has expanded to include 24 counties from the Triangle Area to the coast. Even though we have a wide reach across Eastern North Carolina, we still harbor the same values that we have held since day one: heartfelt care that comes from treating you as if you were a member of our own family.

Through our physicians, nurses, nursing assistants, social workers, chaplains, and other members of our healthcare team, we want you or your loved one to have the most out of the remaining moments, whether that means having more time with your grandchildren or simply enjoying the fellowship of friends.

If you’re ready to learn more, simply contact us to determine what kind of care is right for you. We would welcome the privilege of caring for you.