Understanding
Our Care
Frequently Asked Questions about End-of-Life Care
Making decisions about end-of-life care for a loved one can feel overwhelming—but you're not in this alone. This section answers some of the most common questions we hear from families to offer clarity, reassurance, and support as consider the next step.
What is end-of-life care, and why is it important?
End-of-life care focuses on providing comfort, managing symptoms, and addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of individuals nearing the end of their life. It helps ensure that patients live their final days in peace and dignity, surrounded by loved ones. MCH offers specialized care that emphasizes comfort, compassion, and support for both patients and their families.
How does MCH provide end-of-life care?
MCH offers a compassionate, patient-centered approach to end-of-life care. Our 25-bed unit includes private rooms designed for comfort and tranquility as well as family accommodations with access to showers for overnight stays to keep families close to their loved ones during this important time.
What training does the staff receive for end-of-life care?
Our staff undergoes extensive training with our partners, including from the University of Rochester Medical Center, to ensures that our healthcare professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge and best practices in palliative and end-of-life care. The focus includes symptom management, communication, and addressing the unique needs of each patient and their families.
What is the role of the Pastoral Center on the unit?
The Pastoral Center can provide spiritual support to patients and their families regardless of religious affiliations or can assist in arranging visits from other faith communities. Our chaplains are available to offer comfort, prayer, and counseling. The Pastoral Center serves as a peaceful space where families can reflect, seek guidance, or engage in spiritual practices if they wish.
How does MCH manage pain and symptoms?
Pain and symptom management are a key focus of our end-of-life care. We work closely with each patient to create a personalized care plan to address pain relief and other symptoms, such as nausea, difficulty breathing, or anxiety.
Can end-of-life care be tailored to the patient’s wishes?
Yes, MCH encourages patients and families to actively participate in developing a personalized care plan. This plan can include preferences for pain management, medical treatments, and spiritual support. Our team works with patients and their families to ensure that their wishes are respected and that the patient’s comfort and dignity are maintained.
Are there support services available for families?
In addition to the Pastoral Center, MCH offers various support services to families. This includes grief counseling, social workers to assist with logistical needs, and other resources to help families navigate the end-of-life process. Our goal is to provide emotional and practical support to families during this challenging time.
How can I ensure my end-of-life wishes are respected?
Monroe Community Hospital encourages patients to establish advance directives, such as a living will or healthcare proxy. These legal documents ensure that your healthcare wishes are followed, even if you are no longer able to communicate them. We advise patients to discuss their preferences with their healthcare providers and loved ones well in advance.
What should I do if my loved one needs end-of-life care at MCH?
If you or a loved one is nearing the end of life and needs care, we recommend contacting your primary healthcare provider or Monroe Community Hospital’s admissions team. Our team will work with you to assess the situation and develop a care plan that meets your loved one's needs and wishes.
How can I learn more?
For more information about our end-of-life care services, please contact our Care Coordination Team, visit our website, or speak with your healthcare provider. We are here to provide support and information to help families make informed decisions during this important time.
MCH is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality end-of-life care that prioritizes the comfort, dignity, and wishes of both patients and their families. To learn more about our services call us at (585) 760-6022 or fill out our contact form to connect with our team.
RESOURCES
Caring for someone nearing the end of life can be overwhelming, but having the right resources can offer clarity and support. Here’s a selection of trusted online resources to help families and individuals explore hospice, palliative, and comfort care options.
Providing Care and Comfort at the End of Life
Read about how to provide physical, emotional, and spiritual comfort to relieve suffering when caring for a loved one who is dying.
Making Decisions for Someone at the End of Life
Being a health care proxy and making end-of-life care decisions for someone you love can be challenging. Learn what to expect.
What Does End-of-Life Care Involve?
Some of the key aspects of end-of-life care include symptom relief, emotional support, and the importance of advance planning for medical decisions and legal matters.
Fact Sheet: Palliative and Hospice Care
Both focus on the comfort, care and quality of life on individuals but there are a few notable differences.
Differences between Palliative and Hospice Care
Knowing the specific differences between hospice and palliative care can help someone decide what level of care is best.
Comfort Care and Hospice
While often used interchangeably, Comfort or Palliative Care and Hospice provide two different types of care.
Dealing with Grief and Loss
The Hospice Foundation of America provides resources and advice on dealing with the complex emotions surrounding the loss of a loved one.