What Are The Primary Diagnosis For Hospice Patients?

Hospice healthcare providers are equipped and prepared to treat the diagnosis associated with terminally ill patients. Hospice care is prepared to meet the patient’s needs and demands by educating their staff with the necessary resources.

There are 4 primary diagnoses for hospice patients.

Hospice was first instituted in the 1970s to cater to patients living with cancer. However, over the years, hospice has offered its services to a broader range of patients. The leading primary diagnosis for hospice patients includes but is not limited to the following.

• Cancer
  The number one diagnosis for hospice patients in the United States is cancer. However, advancements in cancer treatment have led to a gradual decline in the number of hospice admission over the past few years.
• Heart Disease
  Cardiovascular disease or heart disease refers to the narrowing of blood vessels that can lead to heart attack or stroke. An increase has been seen in the number of hospice patients living with heart disease.
• Dementia
  Did you know dementia accounts for approximately 14.8% of hospice patients in America? Dementia is a term used to describe symptoms of cognitive decline. Dementia is seen as one of the most common terminal diagnoses as patients with dementia are unable to perform the basic functions on their own.
• Lung Disease
  Patients living with stage 4 COPD are more likely to enter hospice during the last 6 months of their lives. More than 24 million Americans live with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.