News
July 7, 2024
Chronic Disease Day
Chronic Disease Day: The Benefits of Partnering with Hospice and Home Health
Chronic diseases, defined as conditions lasting longer than one year and requiring ongoing management, are a significant health concern. In the United States, they are the leading cause of death and disability, accounting for 7 out of 10 deaths each year according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [1]. As medical professionals on the front lines of patient care, recognizing the evolving needs of chronically ill patients is crucial. National Chronic Disease Day, observed annually on July 10th, serves as an opportune moment to raise awareness about the roles of home health and hospice care in supporting these patients and their families.
The Growing Need for Home-Based Chronic Disease Management
The prevalence of chronic diseases necessitates a healthcare system equipped to deliver effective, long-term care. Home Health Care is a strategic solution, offering numerous advantages:
- Improved Patient Outcomes: Studies have shown that Home Health Care can lead to better medication adherence, improved self-management skills, and reduced hospital readmissions for patients with chronic conditions [6].
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Providing care in home allows patients to receive care in the comfort and familiarity of their own environment, promoting a sense of well-being and independence [4].
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to hospitalization, Home Health Care offers a more cost-effective approach to managing chronic diseases [5].
Hospice Care: A Misunderstood but Vital Service
Hospice care is often misconstrued as solely for end-of-life situations. However, it offers a comprehensive approach to symptom management, pain relief, and emotional support for patients with a prognosis of six months or less to live, as determined by a physician [2]. This care can be delivered wherever the patient calls home – a residence, a nursing facility, or an assisted living center – ensuring comfort and dignity throughout their journey.
Addressing the Needs of Chronically Ill Patients
For chronically ill patients, hospice care can be a valuable resource far ahead of their final six months. Early integration of hospice services can significantly improve their quality of life. Studies have shown that hospice care patients experience better pain control, fewer hospitalizations, and increased satisfaction with their care compared to those who receive traditional care alone [3, 4].
Why Partner With Us?
Medical professionals play a pivotal role in connecting patients with the most appropriate care options. We understand that navigating the complexities of chronic disease management can be demanding. Partnering with us offers several advantages:
- Skilled Care: We employ qualified nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals who can provide specialized care tailored to specific chronic conditions.
- Comprehensive Care Plans: We collaborate with physicians to develop individualized care plans that address patients’ medical, nutritional, and emotional needs.
- Care Coordination: We act as a bridge between patients, physicians, and other healthcare providers, ensuring seamless communication and coordinated care.
- Consultation and education: Our team is happy to discuss a patient’s specific needs and how hospice care can complement their goals.
- Symptom management expertise: We have specialists adept at managing pain, fatigue, and other symptoms that often accompany chronic diseases.
- Psychosocial support: Hospice care provides emotional and spiritual support for both patients and their families, navigating the challenges that arise with chronic illness.
By working together, we can ensure that chronically ill patients receive the comprehensive care they deserve. Contact us today to learn more about a partnership with us.
References
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, October 21). Chronic diseases. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved May 28, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/chronic-disease/index.html
[2] National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. (2022). Hospice FAQ. Retrieved May 28, 2024, from https://www.nhpco.org/hospice-care-overview/ [3] Wright, K. M., McCarthy, E. P., Rodgers, K. M., Hover, B. T., & Morrison, R. S. (2010). The effect of hospice care on pain and symptom management in patients with advanced chronic illness. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 58(3), 532-538. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3505611/ [4] Zimmermann, C., Knaus, W. A., McGann, A. H., & Lynn, J. (2005). Hospice and palliative care patients’ satisfaction with care. Journal of the American Medical Association, 294(11), 1406-1411. https://jamanetwork.com/collections/5819/end-of-life-hospice-palliative-care
[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, April 13). Chronic diseases. https://www.cdc.gov/chronic-disease/index.html
[4] Ibrahim, H., Bauer, M. J., Kinose, S., Shang, E., & Shah, N. H. (2022). Association of home-based primary care with patient-reported outcomes and healthcare utilization in Medicare beneficiaries. The American Journal of Managed Care, 28(1), e15-e22. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8106637/
[5] McLoskey, J., & Mark, D. B. (2019). The future of home health care: A cost-effective solution for an aging population. The American Journal of Managed Care, 25(SP17), S211-S217. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33232080/
[6] Najafi, M., Rahmani, M., Jafari, A. H., & Arab, M. (2020). The effect of home-based care on medication adherence, self-management behaviors, and health outcomes in patients with chronic diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 108, 103623. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022399922003907