Many people see palliative and hospice care as a last resort for terminally ill patients. However, this type of care can be incredibly beneficial for patients and their families if available when needed. Unfortunately, there are many significant problems facing palliative and hospice care in Texas today. Let’s discuss some solutions to these problems.
Lack of funding
Insufficient funds for palliative and hospice care can disadvantage patients by limiting their access to the services they need, for example, getting enough qualified staff, necessary equipment and supplies, and resources for training and education. According to Texas hospice law, hospices are allowed to bill Medicare for all of their services, including those provided to patients who are not terminally ill. This could help to improve their financial stability, making the necessary care available to those who need it.
Lack of awareness
Many people in Texas do not know what palliative or hospice care is or how it can benefit them or their loved ones. Other people assume that it is only for people who are terminally ill. And many healthcare professionals do not know how to properly diagnose and treat patients who need palliative care.
In all these instances, only the people that need help suffer consequences. Therefore, the government should increase awareness of palliative care among the public. They should also ensure that healthcare professionals know how to diagnose and treat patients.
Limited access to care
Many Texans have to travel long distances to receive treatment. And since hospices are limited, they can only get the help they need during their appointments time. This can make it very challenging in emergency situations.
Despite these challenges, you or your loved one have a right to receive the best care possible from a hospice. If they fail to satisfy the terms of your agreement, wrongly diagnose or treat you, or cause untimely death, you might file a claim against them.