Question 1

What is End-Of-Life Care, and Why is it Important?

Accepted Answer

End-of-life care focuses on providing comfort, managing symptoms, and addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of individuals nearing the end of life. It helps ensure that patients live their final days in peace and dignity, surrounded by loved ones.

Monroe Community Hospital offers specialized care that emphasizes comfort, compassion, and support for both patients and their families.

Question 2

How Does MCH Provide Care?

Accepted Answer

Monroe Community Hospital 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.

Question 3

Is Enrollment in Hospice Services Required for Admission?

Accepted Answer

No. While individuals must meet established medical eligibility criteria for admission, enrollment in hospice services is not required. Monroe Community Hospital can assist in facilitating conversations about hospice care should that become the preferred course of support.

Question 4

What Training Does the Staff Receive?

Accepted Answer

Our staff undergoes extensive training with our partners to ensure that our team is equipped with the latest knowledge and best practices in palliative and end-of-life care. Our focus includes symptom management, communication, and addressing the unique needs of each patient and their families.

Question 5

What is the Role of the Chapel?

Accepted Answer

The Chapel can provide spiritual support to patients and their families regardless of religious affiliations and can assist in arranging visits from other faith communities. Our chaplains are available to offer comfort, prayer, and counseling. The Chapel serves as a peaceful space where families can reflect, seek guidance, or engage in spiritual practices, if they wish.

Question 6

How Does MCH Manage Pain and Symptoms?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

Can Care be Tailored to the Patient's Wishes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Monroe Community Hospital 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.

Question 8

Are There Support Services Available to Family Members?

Accepted Answer

In addition to the Pastoral Center, Monroe Community Hospital 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.

Question 9

How Do I Ensure that my Wishes are Respected?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

What Should I do if my Loved One Needs End-Of-Life Care from MCH?

Accepted Answer

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.(/admissions) Our team will work with you to assess the situation and develop a care plan that meets your loved one's needs and wishes.

Question 11

How Can I Learn More?

Accepted Answer

Monroe Community Hospital 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 visit our online Admission guide.(https://www.monroehosp.org/schedule-a-tour)

Palliative Care: FAQ Guide

PALLIATIVE CARE & HOSPICE: FAQ