Clarifying myths about end-of-life decisions

By Dr. James Bell

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In a recent medical study by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 36 percent of seniors said they believe the new health care law allows a government panel to make decisions about end-of-life care for people on Medicare. Since November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, I think it's time to clear up this myth.

I talk with people every day about their choices in end-of-life care with an emphasis on quality of life. I never tell them what they have to do, and there is never anyone from “the government” standing behind me like a vulture waiting to swoop in and change the plan.

There is no death panel provision in any health care law!

Hospice and palliative care match the kind of care people receive with their goals when they have serious illness. Our health care team has lengthy conversations about what the consequences of choices will more than likely be - that's the “palliative care” part. Then, when the patient chooses to focus on comfort instead of cure in the face of a terminal illness, hospice becomes appropriate.

Hospice isn't a place or a building - it's a kind of care. Most people are able to stay in their residence, which can be a very important part of quality of life both for patients and their loved ones. The hospice team journeys with people to help them live life to the fullest for as long as life lasts.

In 2009, approximately 1.6 million people in the United States received hospice services, but

this is still only about

40 percent of the people who would more than likely qualify for hospice. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, HMOs and managed care plans, pay for hospice.

Non-profit hospices in Cedar Rapids, such as St. Luke's, offer hospice care to all patients regardless of their ability to pay. Generous donors help us fulfill our mission.

Knowledge is a powerful tool in making informed health care decisions. It's never too early, or too late, to start thinking and learning about end-of-life care. If you or your organization would like information about free educational opportunities, call St. Luke's Hospice at (319) 369-7744.

Dr. James Bell is Medical Director for St. Luke's Hospital Palliative Care and Hospice in Cedar Rapids. Comments: belljr@crstlukes.com