What Is Hospice Care?
Hospice care provides compassionate care for people in the last phases of incurable disease so that they may live as full and comfortably as possible. This care is usually provided to patients in their homes, whether a residence, assisted living facility, or skilled nursing facility, and even in cases where an individual may be experiencing a period of being un-housed.
Hospice care provides compassionate care for people in the last phases of incurable disease so that they may live as full and comfortably as possible. This care is usually provided to patients in their homes, whether a residence, assisted living facility, or skilled nursing facility, and even in cases where an individual may be experiencing a period of being un-housed.
An interdisciplinary team, in conjunction with the patient, family, and personal physician, contribute to a patient and family centered plan of care. The intent of the plan of care is to honor the patient’s wishes and to provide the patient with the highest quality of life possible, comfort being the priority. The team walks alongside the patient and family on this journey providing guidance, support, education, and care.
Who is Eligible for Hospice Care?
Anyone who is determined by a physician to have a life-limiting illness with a life expectancy of six months or less. These include, but are not limited to, cancer, end stage dementia/Alzheimer’s, heart, lung, and kidney diseases and Parkinson’s disease.
Hospice care is provided for as long as necessary, for those who meet the eligibility criteria.
Who Pays for Hospice Care?
Hospice care at Snowline is available to all patients regardless of their ability to pay. Patients and families are never billed for services.
Medicare, Medi-Cal and most private health insurance policies have a hospice benefit.
The uninsured are served through funds generated by Snowline thrift stores located in El Dorado County and Folsom, as well as private donations.
Patient & Caregiver Handbook
We Honor Veterans
Snowline is a proud We Honor Veterans Program member and has attained its Level 5 status as a veteran provider. By partnering with the Department of Veteran Affairs and its resources, Snowline is in a unique position to compassionately provide the care and support that properly reflects our nation’s deep appreciation for service to our country.
Snowline’s Approach to Helping Veterans
- SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS: Snowline has developed specialized programs that address physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of care while acknowledging the specific experiences and challenges veterans may have faced during their service.
- VETERAN VOLUNTEERS: Snowline has dedicated veteran volunteers that spend time with veteran patients, offering companionship, sharing stories, and engaging in activities of interest to veterans.
- PTSD & TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE: Snowline receives specialized training to provide trauma-informed care to veterans, ensuring a safe and understanding environment for their end-of-life journey.
- ASSISTANCE WITH BENEFITS: Snowline assists veteran patients and their families in navigating and accessing available benefits through the VA, which include healthcare, financial assistance, or other support services.
- FAMILY SUPPORT: Snowline supports the families of veterans, recognizing that they may have their unique challenges and needs related to the veteran’s service and end-of-life care.
- COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Snowline actively engages with the local veteran community through Vet-to-Vet Cafés, pinning ceremonies, events, and outreach programs.
How To Refer
Referrals – Community
Anyone can refer a patient to Snowline. If you know a person who is seriously ill and needs support, or you know someone who you think may be ready for hospice care, call Snowline at:
Snowline will arrange an initial evaluation. If Snowline determines that the patient is hospice eligible, Snowline will assist in obtaining a physician’s orders to begin comfort care. For some individuals who are not yet hospice appropriate, or not ready to select hospice care, Supportive Care, Snowline’s palliative care program, may be an option.
Referrals – Medical Professionals
If your patient is seriously ill and needs supportive care at home, please call 530-621-7820 or 916-817-2338.
Starting the conversation about hospice is never easy, but your patients deserve to know their options. A recent survey showed that more than two-thirds of Americans say they would be most comfortable talking about their end-of-life options with a healthcare provider, rather than a spouse, loved one, or spiritual counselor.
It’s natural to try to stay positive and hopeful for your patients with serious illness, yet a recent survey found that only 3% of Americans want their doctor to emphasize hope rather than being honest when there is little chance of recovery.
A recent survey found that the vast majority of Americans have given some thought to their end-of-life care preferences and believe Medicare should cover consultations with a doctor to discuss those preferences. Yet, only 14% have ever talked about it with their doctor. They’re counting on you to lead the discussion, and it’s never too early to start the conversation.
To refer a patient for hospice services, please complete the Request for Hospice Orders and fax the completed form with supporting documentation to the Referral Office at Snowline:
Patient Request For Hospice
Fax number: 530-622-7032 or 916-480-9283
Email: snowlinereferrals@snowlinehealth.org
We will contact the patient or the patient’s family as soon as we receive your referral. For more information, please contact Snowline: 530-621-7820 or 916-817-2338
