When someone you love is in hospice, you may ask what is after-hours care and why is it so important? After-hours care is an integral part of the way we help you. It dramatically benefits not only patients, but families as well. 

We’ll answer ‘what is after-hours care?’ and discuss how it can make this challenging journey easier. 

Understanding After Hours Care in Hospice

At 3HC, we know the importance of family, particularly when someone you love is facing the last stages of life. We want to be sure patients are able to spend their precious remaining time at home—or wherever they call home—surrounded by those they love. 

And this is why we understand that medical issues don’t always occur during a typical 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. workday. Our patients are cared for seven days a week, 24 hours a day. We know that sometimes pain can worsen outside of “regular” business hours, and receiving timely support can make a huge difference. 

This means, like family, we’re there for you. No matter what time, day or night. So, what is after-hours care? It means that when you need us, dedicated, skilled nurses with extensive experience will be by your side. They will help alleviate symptoms and reduce any pain that your loved one is experiencing.

The Vital Role of After-Hours Care in Hospice Services: Components of After-Hours Care

After-hours care also means that physicians know patients will be cared for using the highest medical standards practiced by our hospice healthcare team members. 

We’ll look at some aspects of this role to answer your question about what is after-hours care?

Continuity of Care

Terminal illnesses do not follow a timetable, and patients may require assistance and comfort at any hour of the day or night. After-hours care ensures that your loved one can always reach out for help whenever needed.

When necessary, nurses can make home visits to assess and manage symptoms, administer medications, and provide emotional support

Enhanced Comfort and Support

Pain and symptoms may grow more intense as the illness progresses. This can cause anxiety not only for the patient, but for their family as well. Through after-hours care, we can provide immediate symptom management. This alleviates distress during the most challenging times for you and your family.  

Family Support

We know that caring for the patient means caring for the whole family. That’s why, when you call for 3HC’s after-hours support, an experienced, trusted expert will answer. We’re always there to listen. 

Avoiding Hospitalizations

Because after-hours care can address any immediate issues at home, it reduces unnecessary hospitalizations and trips to the emergency department. 

After Hours Care can help prevent unnecessary hospitalizations by promptly addressing issues that may arise at home. This not only allows patients to stay in the comfort of their familiar surroundings but also reduces the stress on both patients and their families.

24/7 Phone Support

3HC provides a dedicated phone line staffed by trained professionals who can offer guidance and answer questions even during non-business hours.

Coordination with On-Call Physicians

After-hours care teams work with on-call physicians to address medical needs and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

You Can Trust 3HC’s After-Hours Care Because We Treat You Like Family

We recognize that hospice care is not complete unless it offers compassionate support 24/7. Not only does this provide relief for the family, but it can help avoid hospitalizations. By providing continuous support, managing symptoms, and offering emotional assistance, 3HC contributes to enhancing the overall quality of life for patients.

Do you need to make a referral to 3HC Hospice? It’s simple. Just start here to determine the type of care that’s right for your loved one.