Many long-time Hospice Savannah supporters remember the days when patients could stay at Hospice Inpatient Unit (HIPU) for weeks or months on end. Increased scrutiny from Medicare has meant changes that are sometimes hard to explain to our patients and families. There are four ways that patients may access services in Hospice Inpatient Unit (HIPU).

When patients have difficult-to-mange symptoms like pain, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting or anxiety, they may need Crisis Care (skilled nursing care in their own home) or General Inpatient Care in Hospice Inpatient Unit (HIPU). By coming to Hospice Inpatient Unit (HIPU) these patients can avoid costly hospital admissions yet still have frequent interventions and assessments by our nurses and physicians. However, Medicare only covers short stays (a few days) of Crisis Care or General Inpatient Care and requires a plan to transition your loved one back home or to an extended care facility.

Exhausted caregivers can receive a break of up to five nights by having their loved ones come in for Respite Care. Medicare will pay for respite stays.

 

 

 

 

Left:  One of two spa rooms.After weeks or months of bed baths, patients enjoy being lowered into relaxing whirlpool tubs at Hospice Inpatient Unit (HIPU).