The Hospice Conversation
Dear Medical Professionals,
Referring a patient to this more acute level of care can be difficult but is the right thing to do for patients with a terminal diagnosis. Devoted is glad to step in and aid both you, staff members, the patient and their family through this conversation.
Devoted will start by assessing the patient, family, disease, and needs in order to generate a unique plan of care. We also recognize the importance of the care you have provided thus far and the special relationship that exists between the patient and medical professional. We are glad to work closely with you to ensure your patient’s needs are being met.
If you have questions about the referral process, you may reach out at any time.
Clinical Reference Scales
NYHA Scale
Utilized to evaluate and determine eligibility for services for Cardiac Disease patients.
Pain Measurement Scales
The total score ranges from 1-10. 1-3 being mild pain, 4-6 moderate pain, and 7-10 severe pain.
FLACC Pain Scale
Used to assess behavioral health when evaluating pain in hospice patients who are unable to communicate their needs.
Palliative Performance Scale
A tool used to assess a patient's ability to qualify for care (i.e. a PPS score of 70% or below on the scale may indicate eligibility for Hospice.
Functional Assessment Staging Test (FAST)
A tool used to track the progression of Dementia (i.e. a FAST of 7c usually guarantees Hospice eligibility).
Karnofsky Performance Status
A standard way of measuring the ability of cancer patients to perform ordinary tasks. A higher score means the patient is better able to carry out their ADL's.