Name of the Procedure:

Hospice Long-Term Care, Room and Board Only; Per Diem (HCPCS T2046)

Summary

This service provides room and board for patients receiving hospice care, focusing on comfort and quality of life in a long-term care setting.

Purpose

The purpose of this hospice service is to support patients with terminal illnesses, ensuring their comfort and quality of life during the end-of-life stage.

Indications

• Terminal illnesses such as advanced-stage cancer, heart failure, or other severe conditions.
• Patients who need comprehensive and continuous palliative care.
• Individuals who prefer hospice care in a long-term care facility rather than at home.

Preparation

• No specific preparations are required for this service.
• Patients and families may meet with hospice care coordinators to discuss care plans and preferences.

Procedure Description

• Upon admission, a care team assesses the patient’s needs.
• Patients receive 24/7 care including assistance with daily living activities, pain and symptom management, and emotional support.
• Hospice care plan is tailored to individual needs, including medication administration and routine health monitoring.
• The facility provides meals, housekeeping, and basic nursing care.

Duration

• The service is provided on a per diem (daily) basis, lasting as long as needed depending on the patient's condition.

Setting

• This service is performed in a long-term care facility or hospice care facility.

Personnel

• Hospice nurses
• Certified nursing assistants
• Social workers
• Hospice volunteers
• Physicians overseeing the hospice care plan

Risks and Complications

• Minimal medical risks as the focus is on palliative care rather than curative treatments.
• Possible complications from the patient’s underlying medical condition.

Benefits

• Comprehensive end-of-life care focusing on comfort and quality of life.
• Emotional and psychological support for both patients and their families.
• Relief from symptoms and pain through specialized palliative care.

Recovery

• This service is for palliative care; thus, recovery isn’t applicable.
• Focus on managing symptoms and providing comfort.

Alternatives

• Home hospice care
  • Pros: Familiar environment, more family involvement.
  • Cons: Requires family members to take on caregiving roles, home modifications might be needed.
• Hospital-based palliative care
  • Pros: Access to a wide range of medical services.
  • Cons: Less homelike environment, higher cost.

Patient Experience

• Patients may experience a supportive and compassionate environment focused on their comfort.
• Pain management and comfort measures are prioritized.
• Emotional and spiritual support is readily available to help patients and families cope with end-of-life issues.