Do Patients Get to Make Decisions Regarding Their Care in Hospice?

Hospice care focuses on offering comfort, dignity and improved quality of life for individuals facing the end of life. Families and patients may wonder, though, does hospice care allow patients to have control over decisions about their care? The general answer is yes, as long as they are mentally competent to do so. Patients (and their decision-making) remain at the heart of hospice care.

Key Decision Areas for Patients in Hospice Care

Patients in hospice typically have the right to make decisions regarding:

• Choice of Hospice Provider
• Development of a Care Plan
• Pain and Symptom Management
• Acceptance or Refusal of Treatments
• Adjustments to the Care Plan

Knowing the extent of these decisions can ease worries about what entering hospice care may mean for you or your loved one.

1. Choosing the Right Hospice Provider

Patients have the right to select the hospice provider that feels like the best fit for their needs. Providers vary in their approach, so exploring their services, philosophies and reputation is vital. Patients are also not obligated to use the hospice provider suggested by a hospital or care facility.

2. Development of a Personalized Care Plan

One of the key priorities in hospice care is developing a care plan tailored to the individual. This plan guides the various types of support the patient will receive, and can include input from the patient, family and hospice team.

3. Pain and Symptom Management

Patients retain control over decisions regarding pain and symptom management. Hospice teams are skilled at providing relief, but communication is essential to ensure the patient’s comfort. Hospice professionals guide patients through their options but respect their decisions every step of the way.

4. Acceptance or Refusal of Treatments

Hospice emphasizes quality over quantity of life, which means patients may decline curative treatments in favor of comfort-focused care. However, patients have the autonomy to accept or refuse specific treatments. Patients have the option to receive care, such as antibiotics or physical therapy, if it improves their comfort. They can also decide to forgo treatments if they believe the side effects of the treatment outweigh its benefits.

5. Changes to the Care Plan

Hospice care is designed to adapt to the evolving needs of each patient, ensuring they receive personalized and compassionate support. Patients can request adjustments to their care plan, whether their needs, symptoms or preferences change.

Ensuring Compassionate and Patient-Centered Care

Patients’ rights remain central to hospice care. By fostering open communication and collaborating with an interdisciplinary care team—including physicians, nurses, social workers and chaplains—patients can feel confident that their choices are respected.

At Shiloh Hospice, we believe every individual’s voice matters. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that prioritizes physical comfort, emotional well-being and spiritual support.

If you’re considering hospice care for yourself or a loved one, reach out to us at Shiloh Hospice. Our experienced team will guide you through your options and ensure that your care aligns with your values.