Hospice of the West (HOW), a leading community-based hospice and palliative care organization in Maricopa County, Arizona, points to the financial consequences associated with end-of-life care on health plans and at-risk provider organizations focusing on seniors, plan members with life-limiting illnesses, and family caregivers. HOW underscores the value of Advanced Illness Management (AIM) to enhance care quality, reduce economic burdens and relieve the stress on families.

“By the year 2050, the proportion of the U.S. population that is over the age of 65 will increase to 20.3 percent, a trend that will impact the organization and delivery of healthcare,” says Dr. Anil Nanda, associate physician, HOW. “With the shift in focus from acute to chronic illnesses, and the need to change from one-time interventions that correct a single problem to the ongoing management of multiple diseases and disabilities, there is a growing need for AIM.”

AIM helps individuals and families make care decisions based upon their own values, goals and preferences. This approach not only improves patient-centered outcomes such as pain, depression, and other symptoms, but also enhances patient and family satisfaction with care.

“By shifting the focus of care to the home or community, AIM ensures that patients get the care they need to avoid unnecessary or unwanted care,” he says. “AIM is also documented to lower the cost of care by reducing visits to the emergency department, ICU days and in-hospital stays. As a result, Medicare beneficiaries and family caregivers avert high out-of-pocket expenses.”

Over 40 percent of households in which a family member is struggling with one or more complex, chronic conditions faces medical bills that exceed their financial assets.

“Family caregivers can spend as much as 66 hours a week providing care to a loved one during the person’s last year of life, further eroding earning potential,” he says. “AIM brings welcome relief.”

About Hospice of the West

Hospice of the West is a community based Hospice and Palliative Care organization based in Maricopa County, Arizona and is committed to serving the unique needs of individuals facing a serious illness and providing ongoing support to patient families and loved ones. http://hospicewestaz.com/