What is a hospice?

Hospice is a type of specialized healthcare service that provides care and support for individuals who are in the final stages of a terminal illness. The focus of hospice care is on providing comfort and improving the quality of life for patients and their families, rather than on trying to cure the illness. Hospice care typically includes pain management, symptom control, emotional and spiritual support, and assistance with daily activities. Hospice care can be offered in a variety of settings, including a patient's home, a hospice facility, or a nursing home.