Starting Hospice Care: What to Expect When You Begin
Beginning hospice care can feel overwhelming. Whether you're coming from a hospital, a long-term care facility, or transitioning at home, understanding what to expect can ease anxiety and help families feel more confident and supported.
At Universal Health Net, our goal is to make this transition as smooth and comforting as possible — from the very first conversation to the moment care begins.
How the Transition Begins
The process starts with an assessment to determine eligibility and understand the patient's specific needs. From there, our team develops a personalized care plan that includes pain management, nursing care, emotional counseling, and coordination with any existing healthcare providers.
We work closely with hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and medical providers to ensure the handoff into hospice care is seamless. Families also receive guidance and resources throughout this process so no one feels left navigating it alone.
One important thing to know: unlike many hospice providers, Universal Health Net is often able to continue hospice care while allowing patients to remain on dialysis when appropriate. We believe patients shouldn't have to make unnecessarily difficult choices, and our flexible, individualized approach reflects that.
What Happens in the First 24 Hours
Shortly after admission is confirmed, one of our registered nurses will schedule a visit — often the same day — to meet the patient and family wherever the patient resides.
This first visit is focused on:
- Completing a thorough assessment of the patient's condition
- Reviewing and coordinating medications for comfort and symptom management
- Answering the family's questions and explaining what to expect going forward
- Building a foundation of trust and open communication
Our nurses take the time to make sure caregivers feel informed, prepared, and supported — not rushed.
Equipment and Supplies, Ready Before You Are
If durable medical equipment is needed — such as a hospital bed, oxygen, or mobility aids — these are ordered promptly and delivered quickly. In almost all cases, equipment is set up before the patient arrives home, so a safe and comfortable space is ready from the start.
Medications are also reviewed, ordered, and delivered right away. Our nurses walk caregivers through how to administer them so nothing feels uncertain.
The Rest of the Team
Within the first day or two, additional members of the hospice team will also begin reaching out and coordinating visits. This includes social workers for emotional and practical support, and chaplains for spiritual care — all tailored to the unique needs of the patient and family.
You Don't Have to Figure This Out Alone
The transition into hospice is a deeply personal journey, and it looks different for every family. What stays the same is our commitment to walking alongside you with compassion, clarity, and genuine care.
If you have questions or are considering hospice care for a loved one, we'd love to speak with you.
Contact us today — we're here whenever you're ready.
📞 (831) 920-3740 ✉️ info@uhnhealth.com
Caring for your loved one as our own.
Beginning hospice care can feel overwhelming, but understanding what to expect can ease anxiety and help families feel more confident and supported. At Universal Health Net, our goal is to make this transition as smooth and comforting as possible. Here's what typically happens in the first 24 hours after hospice care begins.
Shortly after admission is confirmed, one of our registered nurses will schedule a visit—often the same day—to meet the patient and family wherever the patient resides. This initial visit is focused on understanding the patient’s needs, reviewing their current condition, and helping everyone feel informed about the care plan moving forward. The nurse will complete a thorough assessment, review medications, and begin coordinating any additional care needed.
If durable medical equipment or supplies are needed—like a hospital bed, oxygen, or mobility aids—these will be ordered promptly. In almost all cases, equipment is delivered and set up before the patient arrives home, ensuring a safe, comfortable space is ready from the start. Our team works closely with local vendors to make this transition as smooth and seamless as possible.
Medications related to comfort and symptom management will also be reviewed, ordered, and delivered quickly. Our nurses will go over how to administer medications and ensure caregivers feel supported and prepared.
Within the first day, additional members of the hospice team—such as a social worker or chaplain—may also reach out or begin to coordinate visits. These professionals offer emotional, spiritual, and practical support tailored to the needs of both the patient and the family.
Most importantly, the first 24 hours are about building trust and establishing a foundation of comfort and communication. At Universal Health Net, we are here to walk alongside you every step of the way, offering compassion, clarity, and reassurance when it’s needed most.
If you have questions or are considering hospice care for a loved one, please call us directly at (831) 920-3740 to speak with a nurse who can guide you through the next steps.
