Connections 110: National Home Care & Hospice Month

November is already here and today is November 6, the much-anticipated Election Day – please take time to vote if you haven’t already done so.

Those of us involved in supportive care look forward to November each year for a different reason other than the election; November is National Home Care & Hospice Month which is a time to recognize the commitment and dedication of those caregivers who provide home care and hospice services to the most vulnerable in our communities.

It is also a time to shine a light on the benefits of home care and hospice and the golden opportunity ahead to increase access to these services.

According to the National Association of Home Care & Hospice, “Our country [United States] is facing a crisis that is summed up in two numbers: 5 and 50. They stand for the 5 percent of patients who account for 50 percent of rising health care costs that threaten to cripple federal government and states.

Home care is the answer to that costly 5 percent of Americans who suffer from multiple, chronic conditions. By keeping them out of hospitals and in their homes, home care saves money – and supports an even greater cause.”

With this month being National Home Care & Hospice Month, I plan to focus on how home care and hospice are key components to effective supportive care.

And in case you’re wondering, yes, I have already voted!

Last Updated: April 22, 2022

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About Author: Robert Sawicki, MD

Doctor Robert Sawicki photoDr. Robert Sawicki is the Vice President of Clinical Services for OSF Home Care and Post-Acute Services. He has led efforts to develop and improve care for patients with chronic illnesses and has a special interest in end-of-life care and hospice.

Dr. Sawicki received his medical degree from Rush University in Chicago, Illinois, and completed his residency in family medicine in Rockford. He practiced family medicine in Bloomington, Illinois, for 20 years before moving into leadership roles with OSF Home Care Services.

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Categories: Palliative Care & Hospice